Shoshone-Bannock Tribal history opens Edson Fichter Nature Talks Series
Bailey Dann shows the crowd photos of the Garrison Creeping Meadow Foxtail harming the environment at the Great Camas Prairie.
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Office of Public Affairs
POCATELLO — The Friends of Edson Fichter Nature Area opened their annual Edson Fichter Nature Talks Series on September 3, 2025 with a presentation on the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal History in the Portneuf Valley.
Nolan Brown, Original Territories and Historical Research Program Manager, and Bailey Dann, Research Program and Education Specialist with the Tribes’ Language & Culture Preservation Department, were invited by Friends President Jane Streubel to share their knowledge. The presentation focused on Tribal history, language, and the importance of protecting natural resources.
In her welcome, Streubel spoke of her love of the area and how it gives her a chance to connect to nature. She added, the topic for the series is an opportunity for the audience to learn about the original people who lived on the land.
Brown spoke about his family’s influence on his work and his efforts to correct historical inaccuracies. He highlighted the Fort Bridger Treaty of 1868, calling it as important to Tribal Nations as the U.S. Constitution is to the country. He also explained how the Shoshone people traditionally relied on the land for food and survival, using the Shoshone Language Seasonal Calendar to describe what was gathered during each season.
He pointed out the threat facing the Great Camas Prairie near Fairfield, where an invasive grass called the Garrison Creeping Meadow Foxtail is harming traditional food plants.
Dann spoke about her work to preserve the Shoshone language by learning from elders and passing knowledge to younger generations. She also highlighted the many plants, such as sagebrush and willows, that are essential for survival and cultural practices.
Brown reminded the audience that the Portneuf Valley was chosen by Bannock leaders for its rich natural resources, along with the Snake River Bottoms.
“There are plants and animals throughout the year that support us as Indian people in our food, culture, and language,” he said. “But they also depend on all of us to protect their habitats. We all live here together.”
Jennifer Jackson, Regional Communications Manager for Idaho Department of Fish & Game Southeast Region, said, “Our first Edson Fichter Nature Talk last Wednesday has surely started our September series off in a big way! Nolan Brown and Bailey Dann shared their incredible knowledge and passion regarding Shoshone-Bannock Tribal History in the Portneuf Valley.”
Jackson went on to say, “Discussions filled with equal parts history, anthropology, and science gave audience members a better understanding of the extremely important relationship between the Shoshone-Bannock people and the land, including their current and historical connections with Idaho’s plants, wildlife, and other natural resources.”
The presentation encouraged the public to take part in learning about Tribal history and to get involved in efforts to care for the land so it can continue to support both people and wildlife for future generations.
The next Nature Talks presentation is on September 10 on EFNA and Beyond: Importance of Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitat Conservation.
