Indigenous knowledges and sciences as best available scientific information

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The dimensions of specialization, personal experience, and transmission of Indigenous Knowledges and Sciences (IKS) are diverse and complex. Researchers and professionals need to recognize this diversity and understand that the information gathered by Indigenous Peoples is collected and communicated in different ways. Immense variation is present among Indigenous cultural roles, languages, and oral histories, as well as in methods of obtaining information. In order for IKS to maintain its accuracy, reliability, and relevance, users must dedicate time and resources to its interpretation and contextualization. Western thought and reasoning does not inherently align with the complexities of Indigenous knowledge transmission; thus, working with tribal experts to gain well-rounded understanding and avoid bias is recommended.