From landscape practices to ecosystem services: Landscape valuation in Indigenous contexts

Abstract

The well-being of Indigenous people relies on a deep and complex relationship with the land. The consequences of environmental changes on landscape value need to be addressed from an Indigenous perspective. To this end, the ecosystem services framework is a good starting point as it is comprehensive, bridges a number of disciplines and is acknowledged by decision-makers. However, ecosystem services face contextual limitations when used for landscape valuation in Indigenous contexts. In collaboration with two First Nations in boreal Quebec (Canada), we revisited the ecosystem services framework so that it better corresponds to Indigenous values and perspectives. We elicited value related to six landscape practices (moose and goose hunting, trapping, fishing, education and ressourcement) using semi-structured interviews and participatory mapping. Participants had to locate on a map and discuss places of high and low value for each landscape practice and for future generations. Four dimensions of landscape value emerged from thematic analysis: abundance, quality, access and experience. Landscapes contribute to the well-being of Indigenous people by sustaining livelihood, culture and identity. We developed a landscape valuation framework that is consistent with Indigenous people's relationship with the land. The framework can guide landscape management towards sustainable Indigenous landscapes.