Course Details

This course seeks to provide students with a comprehensive and culturally sensitive understanding of the Salish Sea’s marine ecology. With a focus on integrating indigenous knowledge alongside scientific study, the course aims to explore the intricate relationship between the ecosystem and tribal communities, considering the cultural, historical, and ecological significance of the region. The course covers the coastal oceanography of the Salish Sea, its diverse marine flora and fauna, emphasizing keystone invertebrates, culturally and commercially important fish and marine mammals. It examines conservation challenges, anthropogenic impacts such as pollution, habitat loss, climate change and ocean acidification, and explores conservation initiatives. The course argues for the inclusion of diverse social scientific and indigenous knowledge in conservation decision-making, challenging the assumption that physical sciences alone provide true knowledge. Structured with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, discussions with tribal elders, field trips, and visits to marine research facilities, the course integrates hands-on experiences such as ecological surveys, laboratory activities and collaborations with conservation experts. Learning outcomes include understanding the cultural significance of marine life for indigenous tribes, comprehending the complex regulatory framework of the region, and advocating for interdisciplinary collaborative approaches in ocean governance. By nurturing a generation of students equipped with scientific knowledge, practical skills, and empathy, the course aims to contribute meaningfully to the conservation and sustainable management of the Salish Sea marine ecosystem.