Marco Hatch

Joining the conversation are Aaron Slade, a marine ecologist passionate about coastal restoration; Nicole Smith, an archaeologist who has dedicated over two decades to understanding shoreline ecosystems; Marco Hatch, an environmental science professor and member of the Samish Indian Nation; and Nicole Norris from the Chalalt First Nation. They delve into the fascinating world of sea gardens, exploring their role in food security and biodiversity. The guests highlight the importance of Indigenous knowledge in environmental stewardship and the urgent need to revive these gardens amidst climate change challenges.

Marco Hatch, an associate professor of environmental science at Western Washington University and a member of the Samish Indian Nation, shares invaluable insights on the integration of Indigenous knowledge in modern conservation. He highlights how clam gardens, maintained sustainably for over 3,500 years, yield 150%-300% more clam production. The discussion also covers the fusion of traditional fishing practices with scientific methods, emphasizing community engagement and the significance of active stewardship in environmental management.