Forest fire in the Eeyou cultural landscapes of Nemaska and Wemindji

Forest fires are central to the construction of Indigenous cultural landscapes in the boreal forest. This study documents how the Eeyouch (Eastern Cree) of Nemaska and Wemindji (Eeyou Istchee, Quebec, Canada) interact with forest fires in shaping cultural landscapes. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 23 tallymen (land stewards) and land users reveals Eeyou fire knowledge, lived experiences with fire, and land management practices. The results show that fire is perceived as a life-giving force with agency, contributing both to forest renewal and to the Eeyou pimaatisiiwin (the Cree way of life). Participants described fire’s role in enhancing resource abundance, influencing seasonal movements, and supporting knowledge transmission. However, recent regional environmental change—exacerbated by climate change and industrial development—led to material losses, health impacts, and disruptions to landscape values. Despite these challenges, the Eeyouch actively engage in fire stewardship through cultural site selection, fuel management, and prescribed burning. Participants advocated for an Indigenous-led fire management organization to make Eeyou knowledge and values central to fire management. Our findings highlight the importance of culturally relevant fire management strategies that recognize fire as both a destructive and creative force and support Indigenous sovereignty and well-being in the face of increasing fire risks.