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Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies

Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies. MI’KMAQ ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE STUDIES (MEKS) Presentation by - Membertou Geomatics Solutions. Presentation Outline. Presentation Outline Membertou Geomatics Solutions Understanding a MEKS MEKS process MEKS example MEKS protocol Questions.

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Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies

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  1. Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies MI’KMAQ ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE STUDIES (MEKS) Presentation by - Membertou Geomatics Solutions

  2. Presentation Outline Presentation Outline • Membertou Geomatics Solutions • Understanding a MEKS • MEKS process • MEKS example • MEKS protocol • Questions

  3. Membertou Geomatics Solutions (MGS) MGS Background • Established in 2002 • A Membertou First Nation owned and operated company • Offer a wide range of Geomatics and Consulting services including Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies (MEKS) • ISO 9001:2008

  4. Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Study (MEKS) MGS and MEKS • Consulting service we offer to companies. • Developing MEKS since 2005 • Typical MEKS involves up to 8 staff • All MEKS follow guidelines of the MEKP

  5. Understanding a MEKS What is a MEKS? • MEKS means “Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Study” • A “traditional use” study that documents historic Mi’kmaq Land and Resource use and collects knowledge on current Mi’kmaq land and resource use in a specific study area

  6. Understanding a MEKS What a MEKS is NOT? • A MEKS is NOT consultation! • If the MEKS identifies a potential for the infringement of section 35 aboriginal and treaty rights, a recommendation is made for the Government to consult with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs.

  7. Understanding a MEKS Why is there a need for a MEKS? • A MEKS provides regulatory boards with Mi’kmaq land use within a study area • A MEKS is often prepared as a background study in the environmental process • A MEKS may also be prepared for areas of importance to Mi’kmaq

  8. Understanding a MEKS Who requests a MEKS? • MEKS are normally requested by companies involved in mining, oil and gas, and transportation projects within Nova Scotia • MEKS may also be requested by Mi’kmaq organizations for areas of special importance

  9. MEKS - Process What is involved in a MEKS • Historical research methodology • Current Use Methodology • Recommendations • Final Report

  10. MEKS – Process Historical Research Methodology • Historical Mi’kmaq land and resource use in the study area is established via: • Written records on archaeology, natural history, and accounts of Mi’kmaq use and occupation in the study area are examined • Census Documents, Indian Affairs Reports, etc.

  11. MEKS – Process Current Use Methodology • Current land and resource use in the study area is established via: • One-on-one interviews with Mi'kmaq knowledge holders • Data from previous studies or projects • Field survey of species of significance to Mi’kmaq • Survey of Mi'kmaq communities in the area and any outstanding specific land claims

  12. MEKS – Process Recommendations • Recommendations for mitigation or further action to the proponent or client intended to protect identified areas, sites, or resources of importance to Mi’kmaq

  13. MEKS – Process Final Report • A MEKS containing the following: • Executive Summary • Background Information • Scope and Objectives • Methodology • Mi’kmaq Land, Water and Resource Use • Conclusion and Recommendations • Final reports are mailed to clients and Communities/Organizations

  14. MEKS Examples Examples of a MEKS

  15. MEKS Examples Research and Data analysis example

  16. MEKS Examples Traditional Use Map showing all activities:

  17. MEKS – Protocol MEKS Protocol • The Assembly of Nova Scotia Chiefs ratified the “Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Study Protocol” in November, 2007. • All projects that are reviewed through the Mi'kmaq-Federal-Provincial Consultation process will be measured against this protocol. • Protocol is currently being revised.

  18. Questions Thank You Questions?

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