Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2026
Document Type
Honors Project
University Scholars Director
Dr. Joshua Tom
First Advisor/Committee Member
Dr. Kimberly Segall
Keywords
Pacific Northwest, Environmental Justice, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Adaptive Governance, Urban Hydrology, Urban Decarbonization
Abstract
This paper explores human interactions with the environment in and around Seattle, Washington, following its trajectory from the Vashon glacial episode to its present standing as a city on the frontier of future urban climate resilience. By examining the shift from indigenous stewardship to a twentieth-century settler-led industrial “taming” paradigm, ecological vulnerabilities are considered through the lens of ill-advised hydraulic regrading and the centralization and privatization of water infrastructure and rights. This history is contextualized in the 21st century as climate projections indicate that Seattle's reliance on mountain snowpack, increasing thermal extremes, sea-level rise, and hydraulic instability caused by climate change all constitute a significant threat to the city. The discussion synthesizes various models for climate resilience through a lens of institutional flexibility and the aim of restorative justice by institutionalizing Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TKE). It suggests a path forward that could support both urban growth and environmental sustainability amid unparalleled uncertainty.
Recommended Citation
Vanden Berg, Brooke J., "FLUID IDENTITIES: USING SEATTLE'S DIVERSE WATER NARRATIVES TO SHAPE CULTURAL VALUES AND ADAPTIVE CONSERVATION STRATEGIES" (2026). Honors Projects. 272.
https://digitalcommons.spu.edu/honorsprojects/272
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Comments
A project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Honors Liberal Arts at Seattle Pacific University, 2026.