Tony Marks-Block

Tony Marks-Block is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology, Geography & Environmental Studies at California State University, East Bay. His research focuses on ecological anthropology at the intersection of anthropogenic fire, Indigenous sovereignty, and political ecology in California. He collaborates with Karuk and Yurok peoples to study cultural burning practices, supported by NSF and Stanford University grants. Dr. Marks-Block teaches courses on pyrogeography and community-engaged methods on unceded Chochenyo Ohlone lands. His work emphasizes anti-colonial frameworks and Indigenous land stewardship.

Education: Advanced training in ecology and anthropology at Stanford and Cornell Universities. Previously developed STEM education programs at UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science. Research highlights include studies on fire suppression impacts, Indigenous fire sovereignty, and participatory environmental justice.

Publications span cultural burning revitalization, fire governance, and environmental policy. His scholarship critiques settler colonial fire management while advocating for Indigenous self-determination. No specific grants or awards listed, but extensive fieldwork and community partnerships underpin his work.

Labs/Teams: Engaged with Karuk Tribe’s Department of Natural Resources and Western Klamath Restoration Partnership. Focus areas include decolonizing fire management and restoring Indigenous ecological practices.