Dr. Frank Kanawha Lake, who belongs to the Karuk and Yurok tribes in Northern California, redefined fire as a vital tool for healing—not just for the land but for Indigenous cultures as well. He shared these insights during his talk on “Indigenous Fire Stewardship” at the Joe Rosenfield ’25 Center.
Lake, a federal researcher with a doctorate in environmental science, combines traditional Indigenous methods with modern research to use prescribed burns effectively. With over 25 years of experience, he is among California’s first federally recognized total fire practitioners. He emphasizes that understanding fire stewardship is crucial for both local tribes and ecosystems to adapt to climate change.
He pointed out that many ecosystems were once nurtured by fires set by Indigenous peoples. When we actively manage fire, we help reduce dead plant buildup and boost diversity in the ecosystem. “Many plants used for food, medicine, and materials thrive from this care,” he said, highlighting how local landscapes serve as supermarkets and pharmacies.
Western approaches to ecosystem restoration, according to Lake, should integrate Indigenous fire practices. He argues that restoring ecosystems also means reviving the traditions of the people who have cared for these lands historically.
At the talk, Lake described how being a total fire practitioner allows him to conduct prescribed burns without needing extra permits. “Fire back, land is back,” he stated, showing his commitment to restoring both the land and Indigenous practices across the country.
Local attendees included firefighters and members of the Meskwaki Nations, showing a rich opportunity for shared learning. Dan Sicard, fire chief for Grinnell, mentioned that while they engage in prescribed burns to restore prairies, they don’t connect these practices to Indigenous knowledge.
Lake stressed the need to change our relationship with fire. “We fear what we don’t understand. It’s time to learn to live with fire on our terms,” he said.
This conversation fits into a larger trend emphasizing climate change and Indigenous wisdom in educational contexts. Schools are now more keen on integrating these vital discussions into their curriculum, making students aware of the importance of both tradition and innovation in ecological stewardship.
Roxanne Smith, a student with a passion for conservation, found the talk pertinent. “Putting people at the forefront of ecology projects is crucial,” she noted, reflecting the growing sentiment among students about inclusive and community-centered approaches to environmental issues.
Engaging with these ideas can lead to a more nuanced understanding of environmental stewardship—one that honors the past while navigating the challenges of the future.
For further insights into the role of Indigenous practices in modern ecosystem management, check out this article.
