Landscapes have various definitions. They are based on different theories that have evolved over centuries. Often,
people and society have been excluded from such consideration and this has resulted in conservation failures [1]. Yet,
many studies have recognized the important role of human decisions in landscape change [2].
Hence, understanding development and dynamics at landscape scale has been seen as a bridge to accommodate
and assist natural resource managers, policy-makers, planners and local communities to explore options for
sustainable development [3, 4]. Landscape dynamics refers to a process of landscape evolution and involves tracing
the relationship between humankind and natural environment [5]. A landscape provides key livelihood resources for
people such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, extractive industries, and other productive land uses. It is the space in
which dynamic and evolving nature-human interactions occur. Survey analysis is a basic method used in landscape
studies and is widely recognized as a beneficial activity in addressing economic and social development [6].
In this North Sulawesi (Indonesia) development study, we use “landscape approaches” to provide tools and
concepts for allocating and managing land to achieve social, economic, and environmental objectives in areas where
human based land uses compete with conservation goals [1]. We assess the physical features of the land and their
interaction or interdependences relating to human condition. The purpose of this study is to understand the various
functions, processes, and complexities in a landscape contributing to poverty alleviation, livelihood improvement,
and environmental services. Subsequently, we used these as the basis for a framework of landscape planning, design
and management which could begin to anticipate and resolve the adverse impacts of change [5