Canadian Mountain Assessment

The Canadian Mountain Assessment (CMA) is the first formal assessment of what we know, do not know, and need to know about mountain systems in Canada. It is based on insights from Indigenous ways of knowing mountains, as well as findings from an extensive assessment of pertinent academic literature. Its inclusive knowledge co-creation approach brings multiple forms of evidence together in ways that enhance collective understanding of mountains in Canada, while also respecting and maintaining the integrity of different knowledge systems. The CMA provides insights into applied reconciliation efforts in the context of a major assessment initiative and points the way forward for mountain-focused research, relationships, and actions in Canada and beyond. In this presentation the CMA’s founder/Project Leader will discuss the rationale for an assessment of mountain systems in Canada, details of the assessment’s unique knowledge co-creation approach, and key findings from the project. The talk will conclude with reflections on the implications of the CMA for future mountain-focused knowledge assessment initiatives.