The Importance of Connected Ocean Monitoring Knowledge Systems and Communities

Abstract

Ocean monitoring will improve outcomes if ways of knowing and priorities from a range
\nof interest groups are successfully integrated. Coastal Indigenous communities hold
\nunique knowledge of the ocean gathered through many generations of inter-dependent
\nliving with marine ecosystems. Experiences and observations from living within that
\nsystem have generated ongoing local and traditional ecological knowledge (LEK and
\nTEK) and Indigenous knowledge (IK) upon which localized sustainable management
\nstrategies have been based. Consequently, a comprehensive approach to ocean
\nmonitoring should connect academic practices (“science”) and local community and
\nIndigenous practices, encompassing “TEK, LEK, and IK.” This paper recommends
\nresearch approaches and methods for connecting scientists, local communities, and
\nIK holders and their respective knowledge systems, and priorities, to help improve
\nmarine ecosystem management. Case studies from Canada and New Zealand (NZ)
\nhighlight the emerging recognition of IK systems in natural resource management, policy
\nand economic development. The in-depth case studies from Ocean Networks Canada
\n(ONC) and the new Moana Project, NZ highlight real-world experiences connecting
\nIK with scientific monitoring programs. Trial-tested recommendations for successful
\ncollaboration include practices for two-way knowledge sharing between scientists and
\ncommunities, co-development of funding proposals, project plans and educational
\nresources, mutually agreed installation of monitoring equipment, and ongoing sharing
\nof data and research results. We recommend that future ocean monitoring research
\nbe conducted using cross-cultural and/or transdisciplinary approaches. Vast oceans
\nand relatively limited monitoring data coupled with the urgency of a changing climate
\nemphasize the need for all eyes possible providing new data and insights. Community
\nmembers and ocean monitoring scientists in joint research teams are essential for
\nincreasing ocean information using diverse methods compared with previous scientific
\nresearch. Research partnerships can also ensure impactful outcomes through improved
\nunderstanding of community needs and priorities.