VANESSA CASTLE | Healing Women Heals Mother Earth
Young & Indigenous
Deep Dive
What is Vanessa Castle's role at Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group?
Vanessa Castle is the Tribal Engagement Coordinator at Ridges to Riffles, an Indigenous conservation group focused on the Klamath River restoration following the largest dam removal project in the world.
Why is the Elwha Dam removal significant to Vanessa Castle and her community?
The Elwha Dam removal is significant because it marked the largest dam removal project in the world at the time, restoring the Elwha River and its ecosystem. For Vanessa and her community, it symbolized hope and healing, reconnecting them to their ancestral lands, traditions, and the salmon that are culturally and spiritually vital to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.
How did Vanessa Castle's work on the Elwha River restoration impact her personally?
Working on the Elwha River restoration was a healing journey for Vanessa. After a period of disconnection from her culture, returning to the river and working as a natural resource technician allowed her to reconnect with her heritage, the land, and the salmon. This work helped her heal spiritually and emotionally, reinforcing her identity as an Indigenous woman.
What role did Vanessa Castle play in advocating for youth involvement in natural resources?
Vanessa advocated for young people's involvement in natural resources by bringing them into STEM fields, speaking at events, and ensuring youth were included in grants. She helped establish a youth education grant that teaches survival skills, wildlife tracking, and navigation, empowering the next generation to take responsibility for their resources and cultural heritage.
How does Vanessa Castle practice self-care while engaging in high-level advocacy work?
Vanessa practices self-care by reconnecting with her teachings, spending time at the river, gathering medicines, and leaning on her community for spiritual support. She also finds strength in her role as a mother, mentor, and participant in cultural practices like drumming and canoe journeys, which remind her of her purpose and resilience.
What advice does Vanessa Castle give to Indigenous youth struggling with mental health?
Vanessa advises Indigenous youth to reach out to their community for support, hold space with positive people, and return to their cultural teachings. She emphasizes the healing power of nature, water, and ancestral wisdom, reminding youth that they are essential to their ecosystems and belong to the land.
What was the significance of the first fishery post-dam removal on the Elwha River?
The first fishery post-dam removal on the Elwha River was a pivotal moment for the community, symbolizing the return of salmon and the reconnection of people to their cultural practices. Families gathered on the river, and multi-generational groups fished together, marking a collective healing process for both the river and the people.
How does Vanessa Castle view the role of Indigenous women in environmental stewardship?
Vanessa sees Indigenous women as vital leaders in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and advocacy. She highlights the importance of women stepping into their power, uplifting one another, and mentoring the next generation to continue the fight for environmental justice and cultural resilience.
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