Research Notes No.. 26. Land Use and occupancy studies document Aboriginal peoples' presence on traditional lands including the description of traditional and contemporary uses and relationships with the land. Involvement of people from the community is an essential part of planning and conducting land use studies. Benefits of Aboriginal peoples include: community empowerment, increased knowledge and experience with traditional land use and cultural traditions, and enhanced social and cultural capital. The benefits of governments and industries include increased communication with First Nations and a more grounded understanding of Aboriginal land and resource use.