**Di**ff**erent Ways of Knowing and a Di**ff**erent Ways of Being: On a Path to Reawakening Legacy of the Maya Forest**

#### **Cynthia Ellis Topsey 1,**† **, Anabel Ford 2,\* ,**† **and Sherman Horn III <sup>3</sup>**


Received: 1 June 2020; Accepted: 16 June 2020; Published: 22 June 2020

**Abstract:** Archaeological projects are in a special position to create unique partnerships, with shared goals and intentions, to development Maya anthropological archaeology. This narrative presents an education outreach project in archaeology invigorated with local collaboration. When priorities of active archaeological projects formally include resident community participation, new horizons and accomplishments are achieved. Local and international interests in heritage and cultural traditions create the platform for interactive relationships and identification of common ground. Together, our experience recognizes four educational pillars that revolve around ancient Maya heritage and the fundamental Maya forest garden. Centered on the protected area of the El Pilar Archaeological Reserve for Maya Flora and Fauna, El Pilar and forest gardens are celebrated at the urban Cayo Welcome Center, practiced at the active outfield *Chak Ha Col* forest garden, and taught at the rural *Känan K'aax* School Garden. As our experience demonstrates, community partnerships require specific elements of acknowledgment including a valued tangible heritage, a formal information outlet, an education link, and an honored cultural tradition. Together, these provide fertile ground for cultivating collaborations in the Maya region and across the world.

**Keywords:** archaeological heritage; education outreach; community participation; culture and nature Conservation
