Moose–habitat relationships: integrating local Cree native knowledge and scientific findings in northern Quebec

Abstract

Participation of aboriginal people in Canadian forestry is a requirement of sustainable management. We proposed a culturally adapted process to integrate Cree and scientific knowledge in Eeyou Istchee (northern Quebec) that could contribute to a better mutual understanding between Cree and non-Cree, and eventually favour the social acceptability of forest management strategies. We studied moose ( Alces alces L.), the Cree featured species and the main forestry issue for the past 40 years. Cree and non-Cree have culturally differing visions for the management of moose habitat. In a previous article, we documented Cree knowledge about moose–habitat relationships. Here, we evaluated some hypotheses built from Cree knowledge by studying the behaviour of moose equipped with GPS collars. In general, results from our habitat use and selection analyses agreed with Cree observations and improved our understanding of moose–habitat relationships in northern Quebec. We jointly demonstrated the importance of mature mixedwoods, balsam fir ( Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) stands, and riparian areas for moose in the northern black spruce ( Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP) forest. In these specific areas, management approaches other than clear-cutting should be developed to preserve moose habitat quality. Such an alternative would potentially be more acceptable for the Cree people.