Indigenous peoples' land management practices and their impact on land cover over time, including those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Question 1

Overview of Indigenous people’s land management

Answer 1

-They had a complex system of land management
-This included the leaving of adequate seeds and vegetation to ensure adequate regrowth of food source plants; only killing the number of animals needed to provide for immediate needs; and only taking some eggs not all so that they ensured the continuing supply of that animal food source

Question 2

Fire

Answer 2

-Fire was used to clear vegetation to make it easier to travel
-Also used to promote plant growth in some areas and to flush possums out of their habitats for food
-Less uncontrolled fires as seen in modern times

Question 3

Caring for country

Answer 3

The environmental, cultural heritage and natural resource management by Indigenous communities is called ‘caring for country’. It includes activities such as cultural practices and rituals, seasonal use of resources and use of fire to acheive optimal environmental conditions.