Indigenous Advisory Council

The Shinnecock Indian Nation is a federally recognized tribe that has inhabited the lands and waters around Shinnecock Bay for over 13,000 years. The name “Shinnecock” roughly translates to “people of the stony shore” and the bay itself is an integral part of the Nation’s culture. 

 

The bay’s designation as a Hope Spot signifies much more than scientific research and restoration; Hope Spots recognize a water body’s cultural, recreational, and traditional importance. Shinnecock Bay is integral to the local indigenous community and holds great cultural, ecological, and spiritual value.  

 

During and after the Hope Spot nomination process, Dr. Kelsey Leonard, Assistant Professor at the University of Waterloo and citizen of the Shinnecock Nation, and IOCS Executive Director Dr. Ellen Pikitch, began discussing potential opportunities for new collaborative research in Shinnecock Bay and additional ways for the Hope Spot to honor indigenous values and perspectives.   

 

Kelsey and Ellen are now co-leading a project that uses Environmental DNA (eDNA) and other emerging technologies to monitor and safeguard the bay's species and habitats. The project is also committed to fostering a meaningful partnership that respects and integrates the invaluable insights and leadership of the Shinnecock community through a newly established Indigenous Advisory Council.