Land Care
Caring for land goes beyond stewardship.
our philosophy
Preserving and restoring land is an important part of our mission. Indigenous people have been living on and caring for land with intent for thousands of years. Balance was not achieved by accident but by a sophisticated understanding of people’s relationship with their environment. That traditional ecological knowledge informs our scientific approach to land care that includes removal of invasive species, ceremonial offerings, and restoration of native species, for a healthier ecosystem.
Why it’s important
In caring for the land, we fulfill our obligation to our Earth Mother, reinvigorate our relationship to the land and waters, and protect special places for future generations.
Examples of Land Care
Herring Run Cleanup
An annual effort to clear the water ways at the Mill Pond fish ladder for herring to have unobstructed access to leave their eggs in Mashpee Pond. It is followed by the Herring Welcoming Ceremony when indigenous people express their gratitude for the coming and going of the fish in the Mashpee River
Invasive Species Management
If left unchecked, invasive species can displace native species and disrupt ecological functions.
Native Plant Restoration
Restoring native plants, especially threatened or cultural-significant ones, promotes ecological health and cultural access