MI’KMAQ ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE STUDIES (MEKS)

Presentation by - Membertou Geomatics Solutions

Mi’kmaq Ecological Knowledge Studies

Presentation Outline

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

MEKS - Process

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

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.

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

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

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

MEKS Examples

Examples of a MEKS

MEKS Examples

Research and Data analysis example

MEKS Examples

Traditional Use Map showing all activities:

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.

Questions

Thank You

Questions?