Camilla Speller: Insights into Indigenous Marine Stewardship from Archaeology and Ancient Biomolecules


DATE
Tuesday January 28, 2025
TIME
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
COST
Free

Join Dr. Camilla Speller for this event hosted by the Archaeological Institute of America (Vancouver Society) as part of their public lecture series.  These lectures are open to the public and those who are not AIA members but are interested in attending can contact Megan Daniels (megan.daniels@ubc.ca) for information.

Tuesday, January 28
7:30 PM
UBC-Vancouver Room BUCH A 103

Abstract:

Pacific salmon have been a cornerstone of Indigenous cultures and economies in the Pacific Northwest for millennia. This talk will present research that combines archaeological salmon bone analysis with Indigenous knowledge to uncover pre-colonial fisheries’ biodiversity and resilience. In partnership with First Nations communities, we document how traditional stewardship practices supported sustainable salmon populations, even under changing environmental conditions. Using cutting-edge biomolecular techniques, we analyze ancient salmon bones to reveal historical species diversity, population trends, and harvesting practices, including strategies like sex-specific fishing strategies. These findings provide critical insights for modern conservation efforts, demonstrating how archaeological data can inform ecologically sound and socially just management of salmon fisheries today. This research emphasizes how respectful collaboration with Indigenous communities is key to fostering sustainable pathways for Pacific salmon conservation and governance.


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