Cultural Knowledge and the Cognitive Map

Cultural preservation requires that the practices as well as the objects of culture be preserved. Too often, this is overlooked in the preservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings, and traditional cultural properties. As discussed in the articles in this issue, Native American cultures are recognized for their special ties to specific places. Traditionally, American Indians developed an understanding of their environments through regular use of these places and their resources. My work as an applied anthropologist brings me into regular contact with Native Americans, doing natural resource projects and facilitating interactions among tribes and U.S. Federal agencies. Much of my work is done in collaboration with tribes as they play more active roles in decision making about their traditional lands and natural resources, both on and off their reservations.