Saanich Ethnobotany Culturally Important Plants of the Wsánec People

Nancy Turner and Richard Hebda present the results of many years of working with botanical experts from the Saanich Nation on southern Vancouver Island. Elders Violet Williams, Elsie Claxton, Christopher Paul and Dave Elliott pass on their knowledge of plants and their uses to future generations of Saanich and Coast Salish people, and to anyone interested in native plants. Saanich Ethnobotany includes detailed information about the plants that were traditionally harvested to use in all aspects of Saanich life, such as for food and medicines, and to make tools, buildings and weapons. Each plant is listed by its common (English), scientific and Saanich names. Each listing contains a brief botanical description with a colour photograph, where to find the plant and how it was used traditionally by the Saanich people. This important book celebrates the richness and tremendous value of locally based knowledge in a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Nancy J. Turner is professor of Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria and a research associate at the Royal BC Museum. She has written several books and articles on ethnobotany, including Food Plants of Interior First Peoples and Plant Technology of First Peoples in British Columbia. Dr. Richard J. Hebda is curator of earth history and botany at the Royal BC Museum and adjunct professor of biology and earth and ocean sciences at the University of Victoria. He has written extensively on subjects related to botany and ethnobotany.