For the Wudjari of the south coast of western Australia, connections to land and ocean are expressed through a holistic understanding of place and ecological function. In upholding the cultural aspirations of their community through the Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, cultural leaders and coordinators have developed a strategic, multi-disciplinary approach centred on cultural values mapping integrated with applied science. The collaboration is focused on the coastal and marine landscape, but also the headwaters of the cultural corridors that connect each study area – including the now submerged coastal plain of the unique Recherche Archipelago. The program engages with marine, geoarchaeological, and socio-economic scientists. We provide a overview of this program, including studies of the health of fish and seabird populations, habitat mapping, submerged landscapes and landforms, and mapping of community-wide appreciation of these culturally-important ecosystems. This strategic approach fosters the development of a dynamic cultural ranger-based work plan structure that supports active management. With the integration of diverse datasets and monitoring programs under a cultural lens, the program partners are collectively supporting the community’s custodial obligations of nurturing habitats, and their associated species, that are part of the cultural identity and ancestral legacy of Wudjari.