Exploring the Compatibility of Blue Camas (Camassia spp.) Cultivation with Garry Oak (Quercus garryana) Meadow Restoration and Conservation

Cultivation of blue camas (Camassia leichtlinii,C. quamash) utilizing selective harvesting, weeding, and post-harvest burning of Garry oak (Quercus garryana) meadow ecosystems was an important practice for some First Peoples of northwestern North America. Through experimental camas harvesting and monitoring, and interviews with land-managers and camas specialists, I explore the compatibility of reinstating camas cultivation practices with ecological restoration and conservation efforts in Garry oak meadow protected areas (i.e. public parks, ecological preserves). I present scientific results on how harvesting camas affected the blue camas population and overall plant diversity at my study site, near Duncan, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. I conclude by sharing insights from interviews on the current interest, opportunities, challenges and potential approaches to renewing management and harvesting of blue camas in protected areas.