Tending the Wild

"Tending the Wild" shines light on the environmental knowledge of indigenous peoples across California by exploring how they have actively shaped and tended the land for millennia, in the process developing a deep understanding of plant and animal life. This series examines how humans are necessary to live in balance with nature and how traditional practices can inspire a new generation of Californians to tend their environment. Co-produced by KCET and the Autry Museum, this six-part multimedia series and one-hour documentary special are presented in association with California Continued, a groundbreaking exhibition now on view at the Autry.

Series Credits

Watch "Tending Nature," a series shining a light on how Indigenous knowledge can inspire a new generation of Californians to find a balance between humans and nature.

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Departures

1:19

Tending the Wild

Tending The Wild (Trailer)

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Full Episodes

Episode

12:27

Tending the Wild

E6: Living Desert - How Native Peoples Are Confronting Environmental Threats From Large-Scale Industry

Indigenous peoples have thrived in the desert for centuries. This video explores how they are confronting threats to their environment from large-scale industry.

Episode

11:35

Tending the Wild

E5: Gathering Medicine - How Native Medicinal Practices Are Thriving Today

Native herbalism has a long history and continues to be practiced today. This video explores a holistic approach to health and how the environment can inform healthy living.

Episode

14:49

Tending the Wild

E4: Decolonizing the Diet - How Native Peoples are Reclaiming Traditional Foods

The Chia Cafe Collective is working to revive Native food practices and raise awareness about the threats to native plants in Southern California.

Episode

15:28

Tending the Wild

E3: Weaving Community - How Native Peoples are Rediscovering Their Basketry Traditions

Despite barriers to access, traditional gathering and basket weaving is still practiced across California as a new generation is rediscovering and preserving its cultural heritage.

Episode

17:55

Tending the Wild

E2: Keeping the River - How the Klamath River's Native Peoples Maintain Their Relationship With Salmon

The Yurok, Karuk, and Hupa peoples have maintained a close relationship with the Klamath River. They have secured traditional fishing rights and mobilized against the threats of dams and agriculture, setting an example for Native environmental rights.

Barbara, Decolonizing The Diet, Tending The Wild.

Episode

59:40

Tending the Wild

Tending the Wild - Complete Broadcast Special

his series examines how humans are necessary to live in balance with nature and how traditional practices can inspire a new generation of Californians to tend their environment