Berry Pickers’ Perspectives on the Social-Ecological Well-Being of Black Huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum)

The black huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum) is the most important wild berry species in British Columbia (BC). For centuries the black huckleberry has been a cultural keystone species for communities in East Kootenays of south-eastern BC. Over the past 100 years there have been major changes in the social-ecological relationships huckleberry pickers have with this species. Policies of fire suppression, and shifting property rights have led to a loss of traditional caretaking practices. In recent years huckleberry pickers have expressed concerns over the decreased availability and quality of berries. Drawing on the knowledge and perspectives shared during open ended interviews with long-time huckleberry pickers, I present their perspectives on how humans impact the well-being of the black huckleberry. Understanding the social and cultural relationships around this wild food species provides a fundamental base for future improvements and changes in forest use practices, and policies to restore the productivity of this plant.