The role of Mapuche communities as guardians of basin headwaters in Northern Patagonia

We reviewed the findings of our ethnographic research focused on the relationship between the Mapuche people and mountain waterscapes to draw attention to the critical role of Mapuche communities in preserving headwater basins and promoting sustainable aquatic ecosystems management in North Patagonia. Our research involved interviews with Mapuche community members, participant observation in workshops, and visits to aquatic environments. Ethnohistorical data supplemented our findings. Our analysis highlights the ongoing territorial transformations impacting indigenous lands and describes ongoing conflicts, emphasing the need for inclusive, multicultural approaches to water resource management. It also advocates for a biocultural framework that transcends the nature–culture divide when examining the complex realm of waterscapes.