Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is gained from observing and experiencing the environment over time. It is often passed down from one generation to another through oral history. It focuses on the relationship between humans and nature. Though invaluable, this first-hand ecosystem information can be difficult to capture, analyze and quantify. This type of observational knowledge often takes a back seat to physical science data and modeling when management decisions are made. Instead, citizen input on government undertakings affecting the environment – like coastal restoration – is usually acquired at public meetings, which may become contentious, and where the opinions expressed by the stakeholders in attendance may not be representative of the broader affected community.
Matthew Bethel, Louisiana Sea Grant’s assistant executive director of research, leads a team of physical and social scientists, including researchers at the University of New Orleans’ Center for Hazards Assessment, Response and Technology (UNO-CHART) and Kansas State University’s Department of Geography, who have incorporated TEK into the formula for guiding the best use of limited coastal restoration funds.