Changing Paradigms of Knowledge Production: Interweaving Traditional Knowledge and Predominant Science in the Delta

Scientists, policy-makers, and Tribes are increasingly recognizing the profound insights that diverse knowledge systems can provide in a process of interweaving, for both the global ecocultural landscape and the Delta specifically. Traditional Knowledge (TK) is a holistic approach of place-based knowledge, practices, and ethical beliefs of Indigenous peoples that has historically been under-represented in decision-making. Many struggle to understand how to meaningfully interweave knowledge systems together. We discuss approaches to interweaving knowledge systems, where to find interweaving opportunities, and under what governance structures. Collaborative knowledge production is illustrated through three examples in the Delta: (1) cultural burning practices, (2) ecological restoration, and (3) species management. We acknowledge ongoing barriers and solutions to interweaving TK, by: challenging misperceptions of TK; protecting Indigenous data; reforming funding structures; and preserving and using TK. Creating meaningful space for Indigenous voices and worldviews is just the first step in a broader process of empowering Tribes and scientists to co-produce knowledge and create policies to co-manage resources.