| Project Name | Alaska Native Traditional Knowledge & Western Science Camp |
| Project Number | 125 |
| Location | Near Arctic Village |
| Dates | Mid August, 2009 |
| Duration | |
| Number of Volunteers Needed | 1-2 FILLED |
| Description | Native Village of Venetie Tribal Government, Arctic Village Council, Venetie Village Council, Yukon Flats School District, Council of Athabascan Tribal Government, Tanana Chiefs Conference, and University of Alaska Fairbanks will be assisting as partners with the camp. The purpose of this agreement is for the partnerships to sponsor a traditional knowledge and western science camp. At the camp, village elders will share Athabascan traditional knowledge. Professional staff and CATG biologists/Environmental Educator will share the results of their latest studies with village youth. The camp will be located at a traditional site in a remote setting about seven miles east of Arctic Village. There will be local hire and about 50 students from K-12 grade. Discussion will include modules about willow weaving, plant identification/botany exercises, canning berries or caribou meat, plant houseplants and gardening techniques, career development and recruitment, fish and wildlife biology, waterfowl harvest, hunting and gun safety, water quality and contaminants, tundra disturbances, wilderness experiences, preparation of harvested game, fishing methods, survival skills and wilderness preparation, animal trapping, edible and medicinal plant use, and weather prediction. In addition, participants will share oral history; identify historical sites; and visit Native allotments and a nearby ancient caribou fence.
(Last year, two Friends volunteers flew to Arctic Village prior to the camp and assisted with camp preparation.) Food, lodging, transportation will be provided by the refuge. Friends will provide transportation to Arctic Village from Alaska cities. |
| Skills Needed | Ability to teach environmental education activities or music. |
| Materials Needed | Camping gear |
| Contact | Joanne Ahlfs, joanne_ahlfs@fws.gov and 455-1834. |