Trapping fur bearers is one of the oldest economic activities in North America and many other parts of the world, although for the Dawson and TH community, it has been a declining pursuit for many.
TH’s goal is to enhance this once vibrant and growing occupation. Given the structural razing of our culture and customs, it is critical that we simultaneously revive old ways while crafting new ones to impart to our youth the values passed down to us. Given also the decline of trapping activities in our Traditional Territory, it is equally important that we continue to teach and educate our children on the importance of the enhancement of trapping activities.
TH feels the need to provide additional opportunities for youth to learn more about conservation and stewardship. Through this project, local children will gain the value of fur bearers and the importance of their habitat and conservation. By continuing to educate as many youth as possible, we believe we are helping to in-still within them the value of stewardship and are thereby helping to ensure the future health of our fur bearer resources. Moreover, TH is inspired to organize its second ever “First Trapper Education Program” for all TH Youth and other youth living in Dawson City, with the expected achievement of high interest and participation for a continuous program. Elders and Commercial trappers will be recruited to provide their expertise and traditional knowledge and biologists or wildlife field technicians will provide their knowledge of fur bearers habitat within TH Traditional Territory. For 2013 year we anticipate up to 10 participants which will include: Youth, Elders, Facilitators, Volunteers, and Visitors.
Proponent: Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in
Contract: 2013-14-18
Amount Awarded: $9,470
Final Report: Download