Pairing Indigenous and Western Science in the Rehabilitation of Pre-Settler Wetlands

Wetlands are vital ecosystems; however, changes to them through colonialism has caused a massive degradation. There is a lack of information on applying non-invasive native wetland plants as a solution to rehabilitate wetlands to pre-settler times. Indigenous and Western wetland science was first explored to establish what wetlands could look like to each group. Western wetland scholars value the function of wetlands, such as phosphorus removal. Indigenous Peoples respect wetlands as vital ecosystems as habitats for wildlife, for sustaining food, medicines, and structural resources. Through extensive literature review, wetland plants chosen have Indigenous cultural significance, are non-invasive, native, perennial, emergent, and able to thrive in hydroponic conditions. Carex vulpinoidea, Helenium autumnale, Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia siphilitica, and Verbena hastata were able to grow under laboratory conditions. Further testing under laboratory conditions is recommended. Most critically, Western wetland research must partner with Indigenous scientists if sustainable rehabilitation of wetlands is to progress.