Traditional River Steward

The Traditional River Steward will lead educational initiatives focused on Indigenous environmental conservation practices, emphasizing the vital role of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in protecting and sustaining local river ecosystems. Through engaging and interactive programs, the Steward will teach youth and community members about Indigenous approaches to environmental stewardship, sustainable land and water management, and the
deep cultural and spiritual connection to the river. The steward will also work with partners to facilitate and provide a forum for exchange of information on ecological principles, techniques, and values incorporating indigenous knowledge and the tenants of the environmental sciences.

Strong knowledge and experience in traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), indigenous beliefs and cultural practices, and river ecosystems. • Experience working with youth, particularly in educational or mentorship roles, and the ability to adapt learning methods to diverse cultural backgrounds. • Passion for integrating environmental stewardship with cultural preservation and sustainability. • Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with youth, elders, and community members in a respectful and inclusive manner. • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with local communities, agencies, and organizations. Preferred Skills: • Familiarity with the specific river system or Eastern Woodland practices and belief systems. • Experience with hands-on educational activities, outdoor programs, or environmental education. • Knowledge of local plant and animal species, as well as traditional land and water management practices. Qualifications Physical Requirements: • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. • Comfort with physical tasks, including walking, hiking, and leading outdoor educational activities. • Ability to engage in field-based activities like river monitoring, planting, and restoration projects.

1. Cultural Stewardship and Conservation: o Foster and practice river stewardship using traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) to maintain the health of the river and surrounding environments. o Work with the tribe and other conservation partners to ensure traditional knowledge is preserved and shared through stewardship activities. o Develop, lead, and manage educational and conservation activities and programs. 2. Youth Education and Community Engagement: o Develop and implement culturally focused environmental education programs for youth, teaching them about the river’s history, ecology, and traditional practices. o Lead hands-on educational experiences, such as river clean-up days, manufacturing traditional traps and snares, or sustainable fishing workshops, where youth learn to interact with the river and its resources responsibly. o Engage youth and community members in river restoration projects, including habitat restoration, tree planting, and invasive species management, while incorporating cultural teachings into the process. o Educate participants on the traditional practices of restoring the land and water, emphasizing the spiritual interconnectedness of all living things. o Strengthen relationships with community members, schools, and local organizations by organizing cultural and environmental events that celebrate the river and its significance to the community. Primary Roles and Responsibilities o Act as a liaison between traditional knowledge holders, environmental organizations, and government agencies to ensure the river’s cultural and ecological needs are met. o Lead community workshops on the importance of cultural practices in environmental conservation and sustainability. 3. River Monitoring and Restoration: o Participate in monitoring the health of the river, utilizing traditional methods alongside modern tools to assess water quality, wildlife, and habitat conditions. o Incorporate indigenous cultural practices, such as sustainable fishing, water management, and plant gathering, into conservation efforts. o Work in collaboration with our Environmental and Natural Resources Department to support restoration projects.