ABOUT
MISSION
The mission of the Salish Sea Research Center is to prepare the next generation of environmental scientists and leaders through fostering respect for indigenous knowledge of nature, providing opportunities for students to gain a solid background in scientific methods, and fostering critical thinking skills and self-motivation. At the Salish Sea Research Center, students, and faculty conduct environmental research that supports healthy, clean, and vibrant environments that sustain tribal communities.
Four Core Themes
Selalexw: Our strength comes from the old people. From them we receive our teachings and knowledge and the advice we need for our daily lives.
Schtengexwen: We are responsible for protecting our territory. We take care of our land and the water and everything that is on it and in it.
Xwlemichosen: Our culture is our language. We should strengthen and maintain our language.
Lengesot: We take care of ourselves, watch out for ourselves, and love and take care of each other.
The Salish Sea Research Center (SSRC) is located on the main campus of Northwest Indian College at the Lummi Nation in Bellingham, Washington. The Salish Sea Research Center is a 4,200 square foot, 2.2 million dollar facility 80% funded by The National Science Foundation under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. All building materials, light switches etc., were all made in America. To learn more about the lab and the equipment we use for research and education, take the 360 degree lab tour (link above).