Interior Dept pushes employees to utilize ‘indigenous knowledge’ with new handbook
President Trump made a surprise announcement during a speech at an America First Policy Institute Gala at Mar-a-Lago, revealing his pick for the next secretary of the interior: North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. The decision comes at a time when the Department of the Interior is working to finalize a new \”implementation handbook\” that will guide agency decision makers on how to incorporate indigenous knowledge into their daily work.
The concept of \”indigenous knowledge\” posits that Native groups possess a unique understanding of the natural world due to their ethnic background. The Interior Department’s new handbook builds upon a chapter added last year to the Departmental Manual, which outlines the department’s responsibilities for considering and including indigenous knowledge in its actions and scientific research.
The draft version of the handbook emphasizes the importance of equitably promoting the inclusion of indigenous knowledge in various departmental practices, such as scientific research, environmental compliance work, and community resiliency. It provides employees with context, approaches, and references to existing resources to help them incorporate indigenous knowledge in a respectful and equitable manner.
One approach outlined in the handbook encourages employees to collaborate with indigenous \”knowledge holders\” to supplement their scientific research. It also advises hiring managers to consider employing these experts to ensure the inclusion of indigenous knowledge in departmental practices. The handbook highlights the importance of including indigenous knowledge as an aspect of best available science when it is regarded as authoritative by the Indigenous Peoples who possess it.
The nearly 150-page handbook includes various approaches to applying indigenous knowledge, such as creating an ethical space to receive indigenous knowledge and protecting sensitive information from public disclosure laws. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential misuse of indigenous knowledge for political purposes.
Despite the controversy surrounding the incorporation of indigenous knowledge in government practices, the Biden administration has continued to emphasize its value. The Office of Science and Technology Policy recently released federal guidance on utilizing indigenous knowledge across government sectors, aiming to make the best scientific and policy decisions possible.
As the Department of the Interior works to finalize its handbook on indigenous knowledge, Acting Deputy Secretary Laura Daniel-Davis has highlighted the agency’s commitment to consulting with tribal leaders and other indigenous knowledge holders. This consultation process will help ensure that the handbook reflects the diverse perspectives and expertise of indigenous communities.
In nominating Gov. Doug Burgum to lead the Department of the Interior, President Trump has chosen a candidate who will be tasked with managing public lands, national parks, wildlife refuges, and federal responsibilities to Native American tribes. Burgum’s leadership will play a crucial role in implementing the department’s commitment to incorporating indigenous knowledge into its practices and decision-making processes.
