Working Group Co-chair, Steering Committee and Advisors Meeting, Simon Fraser University

Published: 
Jan 11, 2009

On January 9-11, 2009, the IPinCH Working Group Co-Chairs, Steering Committee and Advisors convened at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC, Canada to kick off our exciting, seven-year, international research project. 

David Schaepe, archaeologist and co-manager of Stó:lo Research and Resource Management Centre (a partnering organization based in Chilliwack, BC) opened the 3-day meeting with a fascinating introduction to the Stó:lo Nation’s work in resource and heritage management on their traditional territory. Dave’s presentation affirmed the relevance and timeliness of the IPinCH Project to the Stó:lo Nation and grounded many of the concepts participants discussed during our meeting. 

 

Meeting participants engaged in lively dialogue around the three key elements of the research project and their integration: Case Studies, Working Groups, and the Knowledge Base. Additionally, participants hashed out the importance, objectives and thematic areas of the IPinCH Project along with project management, funding and logistics.

Participants were enthused by brief overviews of the first round of Case Studies and a great deal of interest was expressed in how Case Studies and Working Groups can inform and support one another.

Much of the meeting was spent discussing the purpose, organization, and vision for the eight Working Groups. Possible activities suggested for the Working Groups—constituted of six to 12 members—included conference organization and participation, literature reviews, article writing, etc.

Participants left the meeting feeling much more informed about, and connected to the project and to each another. The energy and enthusiasm generated and exchanged at the meeting will certainly carry the Steering Committee and Working Group Co-Chairs forward in their work.