Investigating Complex Human-Ecological Relationships Over Multidimensional Scales: the Sanak Islands Project

Idaho State University, Pocatello ID

Investigators

Abstract

The proposed collaboration between PIs Maschner and Huntley, Box, Finney, and Jordon, Idaho State University, Utah State University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Antioch New England Graduate School, respectively, is to examine the role of humans in the North Pacific ecosystem through both anthropological and ecological theory and methodology. The proposed interdisciplinary project is an ambitious research undertaking that would be conducted on the Sanak Island archipelago, south of the Alaska Peninsula. The research team has a very successful history of work in this region and will focus on the role of prehistoric, historic and modern Aleut in the structure and function of the north Pacific ecosystem and issues of sustainability. In addition, the PIs have a strong record of working with local communities as participants and students and this proposed research would continue that tradition.