Itasca Waters will host a webinar on January 8, 2026, as part of its ongoing Practical Water Wisdom Series. The session, scheduled for noon, will feature insights from aquatic biologist Shane Bowe of the Red Lake Nation Department of Natural Resources. This free, open-to-all event will include an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speaker.
Bowe will discuss the integration of tribal community priorities and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into lake management, drawing on his two decades of experience. He emphasizes that effective integration occurs when tribal members are empowered to manage their own natural resources. This approach has shown that tribal involvement leads to more meaningful and lasting outcomes in resource management.
During the webinar, Bowe will outline recent initiatives aimed at enhancing tribal representation in natural resource professions. These initiatives include expanded outreach to Red Lake Nation College, a tiered mentorship pathway, and a new apprenticeship program. Each of these efforts is designed to build long-term capacity and strengthen tribal leadership in the management of natural resources.
About Itasca Waters and the Practical Water Wisdom Series
The Practical Water Wisdom Series is an initiative by Itasca Waters, a nonprofit organization based in Itasca County. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure the maintenance of clean and abundant water, which is vital for public health, recreational enjoyment, and economic stability.
Webinars in this series typically take place on the first Thursday of each month, providing a platform for valuable discussions on water management and related topics. To register for the upcoming session or learn more about the series, interested individuals can visit itascawaters.org/water-wisdom-2026. For additional inquiries, they may contact [email protected].
Through these collaborative efforts, Itasca Waters aims to foster a deeper understanding of water management while empowering tribal communities and enhancing their involvement in environmental stewardship.
