The University of Saskatchewan is attempting to put Indigenous knowledge at the forefront of water research in Canada.
A news release from the Global Institute for Water Security on the USask campus says Indigenous water experts and knowledge keepers are to be involved in an attempt to create a better water future for everyone.
Knowledge keeper, Anthony Blair Dreaver Johnston, who is also a member of the Global Water Futures Indigenous Engagement Committee, says, “Nothing about us without us. Research must meaningfully engage community members, governments, organizations, and include local and traditional knowledge about the nature and use of water.”
Associate director of GWF, Dr. Corinne Schuster-Wallace notes that the effects of climate change are hitting Canada, and particularly Indigenous communities even more than other parts of the world, and this summer along, we have seen more forest fires, hotter temperatures, severe droughts and floods than ever before.

A statement, created by participants representing 14 First Nation and Inuit communities and organizations, outlines four areas.
They are prioritizing wellness of communities, observing and abiding by local protocols, equity in supporting and funding knowledge, and keeping intellectual property within communities.