Traditional Ecological Knowledge

Traditional Ecological Knowledge refers to insights and land management practices developed over generations in relation to the surrounding environment. These practices guide natural processes in ways that create desirable conditions, including maintaining habitats and creating spaces for people, plants, and animals to thrive. It supports decision-making for food security, health and safety, education, and general well-being. In the Black Hills, embracing this knowledge helps ensure the forest’s long-term health through a balanced relationship between people and their environment. The Black Hills contain diverse habitats that support a wide array of flora and fauna and have been a significant cultural and spiritual location for many Native American Tribes since time immemorial. Its use in action includes bison and ungulate hoof shear to promote healthy soils, ethnobotany through strategic seed spreading, harvesting, and use of native plants, prescribed fire, hunting to maintain sustainable populations, and fisheries and stream management.

Keystone, South Dakota · United States