First Nation-led stewardship of Country through eDNA technology and cultural knowledge systems. The EnviroDNA Traditional Owner eDNA Training Program empowers First Nation communities by providing the tools, training, and authority needed to enhance biodiversity restoration using eDNA technology. Groups unlock powerful eDNA insights that reveal local biodiversity, helping to guide informed management decisions. Grounded in cultural governance, this program enables a two-way exchange between cultural knowledge and science to care for Country.
How can eDNA be used to survey on Country?
-
Establish biodiversity baselines. Gather biodiversity data to understand the distribution of species and measure ecosystem health.
-
Inform on-ground management. Conduct ongoing biodiversity monitoring to detect change over time, before and after disturbances (e.g., fire) and management interventions.
-
Aboriginal Waterway Assessments. An effective monitoring tool within Aboriginal Waterway Assessments to inform management decisions, such as cultural flows and ongoing monitoring.
Case studies
Baseline Data for the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape
The Budj Bim landscape, situated on Gunditjmara Country, holds great cultural significance. It’s home to a range of native and threatened species. The Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation developed eDNA sampling skills and led a biodiversity survey of the region using eDNA. The outcomes of this project established baseline data to assist in future management and planning.
