Restoring the landscape: An analysis of Native American approaches to ecological restoration

From the perspective of complex adaptive systems (CAS), the historic persistence of indigenous cultures on North American landscapes prior to European settlement suggests that social systems, land-use practices, and landscapes were highly adaptable and resilient. Moreover, land-use practices and decision-making processes in industrialized societies have developed many maladaptive features that have (1) diminished the complexity and resilience of landscape structure and functioning of natural landscapes, and (2) encumbered decision making processes in natural resources management. Funding is sought to combine an individual sabbatical with working group activities that contrast the ecological foundations, land-use practices, and decision-making processes of Native American cultures with those of non-Native cultures. Expected products include a landscape restoration plan, a book, and formal presentations to Native and non-Native institutions