Kautokeino / Guovdageaidnu, 28-30 January 2026
The Reindeer Herding and Resilience (RHR) project, coordinated by the International Centre for
Reindeer Husbandry, successfully hosted a three-day Mapping Workshop in Kautokeino, in
partnership with the Woodwell Climate Research Center and Flyttsamelaget.
Held on the premises of the Sámi University of Applied Sciences, the workshop brought
together Sámi reindeer herders, youth, and researchers to explore how digital mapping tools
can support reindeer husbandry, document environmental change, and strengthen dialogue with
decision-makers. Through a combination of presentations, hands-on exercises, and group
discussions, participants worked directly with maps reflecting their own grazing areas, migration
routes, and lived experiences on the land.
Over three intensive days, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of geospatial
mapping using ArcGIS Online and StoryMaps. The programme covered:
● Mapping reindeer migration routes, grazing areas, and key seasonal sites
● Integrating GPS data, imagery, and local observations
● Exploring how maps can communicate impacts from land-use change, infrastructure,
and changing snow and ice conditions
● Developing StoryMaps that combine maps, text, and visuals to tell stories
A strong emphasis was placed on Indigenous knowledge, ethical map use, and data
sovereignty, ensuring that participants retained control over how their knowledge and maps are
shared. Participants highlighted the value of the practical approach, learning by doing, and
working collaboratively. Many noted that mapping and StoryMaps offer new ways to make
reindeer herding realities more visible and easier to communicate.
The Mapping Workshop in Kautokeino marks an important step in the project’s ongoing work to
strengthen community-based monitoring, participatory mapping, and engagement in the
reindeer herding regions. Building on the outcomes of this workshop, the project plans to
support follow-up activities, including advanced GIS training and further development of
StoryMaps. By combining Indigenous knowledge and digital tools, the Reindeer Herding and
Resilience project continues to support reindeer herders in navigating a rapidly changing Arctic.
Photos by Marina Tonkopeeva, ICR
