Understanding the Changing Eelgrass Meadows of Chisasibi

Eelgrass meadows (Zostera marina) are fundamental ecosystems for the Cree families of Chisasibi because of their capacity to attract waterfowl species such as Canada Geese, Brant Geese, Snow Geese, and various duck species.

Eelgrass beds—along with other coastal ecosystems along the eastern coastline of James Bay—have experienced significant changes since the 1970s.

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This research project examines these changes through a combination of Cree Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and environmental science. It includes:

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• Toponymy interviews

• Land-Use and Occupancy interviews

• Traditional Ecological Knowledge interviews

• Environmental sampling and monitoring with coastal land-users

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Objectives of the research:

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• Identify changes in coastal ecosystems since the mid-1970s (e.g., the disappearance of eelgrass beds)

• Document Cree Traditional Ecological indicators

• Translate Cree Traditional Ecological indicators into measurable scientific indicators