INDIGENOUS STEWARDSHIP

THE RIVER’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE CARETAKERS.

The Charles River watershed is within the traditional territory of the Massachusett, Nipmuc and Wampanoag Tribes.

Prior to European colonization, indigenous tribes used the Charles River – originally called the Quinobequin – for transportation and as a food source in a way that was sustainable for themselves and future generations. In contrast, Europeans dammed and polluted the river to such an extent that decades ago portions of the river were nearly lifeless.

CRWA is partnering with representatives of the watershed’s indigenous tribes because their perspective as the original stewards of the river gives them a unique and powerful voice that has been missing when it comes to taking action to restore the river to a healthy, sustainable natural system. CRWA is also using its voice and platform to promote policies and issues important to tribes to do our part to advance equity and justice.