‘Tending the Wild: Native American Knowledge and the Management of California’s Natural Resources’ by M. Kat Anderson

 University of California Press

ISBN  978-0520280434

Reviewed by Ian Mowll
_____________________________________________________________________________________ 

This book is about the Native Americans and ecology of the West Coast of the USA, its history and most importantly, the sustainable practices of the Native Americans and how we can learn from them.

The book starts with a description of the ecology of the region and notes its rich biodiversity. This is, at least in part, because of the diverse landscapes and the fertility of the region. The author goes on to describe the arrival of the Europeans, initially the Spanish followed by other Europeans. It is saddening to read the appalling treatment of the Native Americans by the invaders – there is much that needs to be done to heal the scars of the past.

The main section of the book contains detailed descriptions of the techniques and use of the land by Native Americans. In contrast to the ‘one size fits all’ industrial agricultural approach of the Europeans, there was great diversity in the approaches used by the indigenous population – each tuned to a particular ecosystem and often generations in the making.

Interestingly, the book shows us that whilst humans can cause extinction of megafauna (large animals) indigenous peoples can be a keystone species that helps to maintain diversity and be a positive influence in an ecosystem.

Particular attention in the book is given to the controlled burning of agricultural areas and how this is important for land management and improving crop yields. Whilst this is an important point, the book keeps returning to this subject; some editing would have improved the readability of the book. The author also describes the great skill and diversity of basket making and other implements used for hunting and agriculture.

Finally, the author explains how we can learn from Native American traditions to move towards a sustainable world. Participatory involvement with Nature is encouraged, not only planting, growing and harvesting but also rituals, songs, celebrations and more to deepen our connection. This can help a sense of belonging and connection with the land, thereby improving respect for the natural world.

Whilst I have heard many times how indigenous people lived sustainably with the land, this book gave me much more depth in my understanding. I came away very encouraged to know that humans can be a beneficial part of the natural world, if only we learn how to play our part.