Supporting Abenaki Stewardship of the Ecologically Rare and Culturally Important Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Ecosystem
Atlantic White Cedar swamp ecosystems occur along the coast from southern Maine to central Florida but about 80% of their historic coverage has been wiped out or converted due to human activities. These ecosystems were extensively used for Indigenous traditional products, such as canoes and baskets, and as sacred areas to support cultural and spiritual practices. The Bradford Bog, one of the most northern and well-preserved communities of Atlantic White Cedar, is still activity utilized for traditional purposes by the Abenaki, who have expressed concern over the lack of cedar regeneration and its declining health.
NSRC researchers will assess Atlantic White Cedar natural regeneration and stand dynamics and establish long-term monitoring plots that will be maintained by the Abenaki using integrated Indigenous-Western research methods to assess ecosystem health. Researchers will create an eco-cultural stewardship plan to ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of this important ecosystem.
This research project creates a partnership among the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk Abenaki Nation, University of New Hampshire, Bradford Conservation Commission, Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust, a local landowner, and a local forester. The project will support the education and mentorship of a young Abenaki member as a graduate student in forest ecology, ecosystem management, and Indigenous knowledge and communication. Researchers and partners will facilitate outreach activities to share project results with diverse audiences, with a focus on communication approaches that feature Indigenous traditions, such as story-telling and experiential learning opportunities.