2025 Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference

AUTHORS:  Kathleen Smith, Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission

ABSTRACT:  Wetlands hold immense importance for the Ojibwe people, particularly in relation to nibi (water), connects all orders of creation and manoomin (wild rice), which is central to their culture and spirituality. Manoomin, native to the Great Lakes region, is more than just a food source; it is a sacred entity deeply intertwined with the identity, traditions, and sustenance of the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) people.
According to Anishinaabe oral tradition, their ancestors were guided by a prophecy to find “the place where food grows on water,” leading them to the Great Lakes region where manoomin flourishes. The term “manoomin” translates to “good berry,” reflecting its esteemed status. Harvesting manoomin is a ceremonial act, performed using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. This process involves using canoes and wooden sticks to gently knock the rice into the boat, ensuring the sustainability of the rice beds.
The Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC) plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the cultural and ecological significance of manoomin. GLIFWC collaborates with member tribes to protect manoomin habitats, advocate for sustainable harvesting practices, and conduct research to support the health of wild rice beds.
Wetlands are essential to the growth and sustainability of manoomin. These ecosystems provide important food and medicines. Wetlands also support a diverse group of plant and animal species, contributing to the overall health and resilience of the environment. The Anishinaabe view wetlands as sacred spaces, integral to their cultural and spiritual practices.
Manoomin is integral to various cultural practices and ceremonies. It is offered in spiritual rituals, feasts, and funerals, symbolizing a connection to the land and the ancestors. The preservation of wetlands is thus not only an environmental concern but also a cultural and spiritual imperative for the Ojibwe people.