Network in Canadian History and Environment
| Established | 2004 |
|---|---|
| Location | London, ON |
| Website | niche.uwo.ca |
The Network in Canadian History and Environment (NiCHE) based at the University of Western Ontario was established in 2004 as a confederation of scholars working in the field of environmental history.
The network has over 200 members, primarily researchers in the fields of history, geography, and the humanities.
Mission
NiCHE seeks to disseminate research findings to natural scientists, policymakers and the Canadian public.
Natural scientists and policymakers need access to environmental history research so that they can make informed decisions about current and future practices. NiCHE seeks to provide historical context of environmental issues and to promote dialogue between researchers of different disciplines as well as with policymakers.
Just as importantly, NiCHE is committed to engaging with the broader public, working to preserve and interpret Canada's past for the benefit of all Canadians.
Activities
Projects Each fall, NiCHE holds a "Call for Projects", setting aside $25,000 to fund new, one-time projects with needs of between $2500-$7500. NiCHE looks to support innovative projects that mobilize or disseminate Canadian environmental history.
Web Space The NiCHE Digital Infrastructure project provides a space on the web to members in need of a way to disseminate their research. NiCHE adopts, digitizes and publicizes research databases. NiCHE can also digitize and present illustrations, maps and other materials complementary to print publications.
Networking NiCHE can facilitate communication with a wide variety of organizations interested in Canadian nature and history.
Funding
In 2007, NiCHE was awarded a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada Strategic Knowledge Clusters grant, giving it stable funding through 2014.