Future sustainable governance of Sámi reindeer husbandry might face major challenges related to rapid changes in the Arctic. Sámi reindeer husbandry represents a livelihood and way of life based on practices and knowledge developed through long-term experiences in living under harsh and highly variable conditions in the arctic environment.
This research project, The Rievdan-project, is based on and according to goals and strategies set by SUC and will provide knowledge base for a new Master’s degree Programme in Reindeer Husbandry Studies using a multidisciplinary approach.
The project will research traditional cultural capabilities in Sámi reindeer husbandry and the opportunities embedded in traditional knowledge and scientific knowledge with focus on adaptation to change and reconciliation, explain the tensions between the two interlinked spheres of knowledge involving different approaches to basic aspects of reindeer husbandry and herding, contribute to new knowledge and understanding in order to increase sustainability in reindeer husbandry and herding, and finally strengthen the reconciliation between the interlinked and conflicted spheres of knowledge.
Rievdan in Sámi means 1) change, 2) be distinguishable from, and 3) be able to manage (Nielsen 1979)
WEBsite
http://reindeerherding.org/herders/sami-norway/