Use of acoustic telemetry and First Nations' traditional knowledge to determine the movements and habitat use of valued aquatic species, and their environmental correlates

The proposed three-year collaborative research project aims to enable better stewardship of marine resources by creating a collaboration among indigenous rights holders, academia, and other local stakeholders to increase our understanding of the movements and seasonal habitat use of valued species in the Bay of Fundy and Bras'd'Or lakes. Building on indigenous (Mi'kmaq) and Western Knowledge, and in collaboration at all levels with indigenous and other stakeholders including the Federal government (Department of Fisheries and Oceans), acoustic telemetry programs will be designed and executed to document the movements and temporal and spatial habitat use of the valued species, and link them to environmental correlates. Data and results from the research will flow though Mi'Kmaq management and governance structures, enhancing evolving co-management approaches for marine resources in the study regions. The project builds on the established research infrastructure of Canada's Ocean Tracking Network, and those of the partners in the project. Mi'kmaq and/or newly recruited graduate students (preferentially from Indigenous groups) will be trained in the use and operations/maintenance of acoustic telemetry technology, and all students will be trained in the unique perspectives and strengths of different knowledge systems. Results will be used to address threats to marine and freshwater habitat and species, and the project will transfer ownership of knowledge to communities to support their decision-making and intervention in consultation processes.