Nuka Research convened and facilitated a virtual workshop on behalf of the Makah Tribal Council and Office of Marine Affairs, with participation from Nuu-Chah-Nuulth Tribes, during which Tribes and First Nations participated in a two-day dialogue focused on enhancing the role of Indigenous governments in addressing shipping safety, oil spill risks, and eco-cultural resource protection in transboundary waters. The workshop brought together participants from the Strait of Juan de Fuca Indigenous Caucus as well as cultural and subject matter experts on both sides of the US/Canadian border to discuss oil spill risks to cultural values and resources – and implications for oil spill prevention, preparedness, response, and Natural Resources Damages Assessment (US)/marine pollution liability (Canada). The workshop set the direction for future trans-boundary collaboration to identify and protect shared interests in natural and cultural resources, practice, and use.
