Stakeholders’ perception of forest management: a Portuguese mountain case study
Data
2016
Autores
Costa, Ana Alexandra Vilela Marta Rio
Manso, Filipa Conceição Silva Furtado Tor...
Tibério, Manuel Luis
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Aim of study: This paper aims to test a participatory methodology to draw parallels and paradoxes as to how some forest sector- related entities and local communities view the Montemuro Mountain forest, namely in terms of its characteristics, the offered opportunities, its problems and the likely solutions for its management as well as the role played by stakeholders, which can be replicated in other case studies and can also facilitate the forest policy making process. Area of study: The Natura 2000 Network “Montemuro Mountain” Site in Portugal. Material and methods: This study combined several consultation and citizen participation techniques. Main results: The perceptions shared by the stakeholders are some similar, others not similar and others still quite paradoxical regarding forest characteristics and the opportunities they offer. The study has shown that it is possible to implement and improve citizen participation methodologies. This can be a viable way towards more effective forest management and fire prevention as this may help blunt conflicts of interest in forest space management. However, for participation to be truly effective and representative, a policy regarding training and awareness of the importance of information is necessary.
Research highlights: The stakeholder perceptions on forests and forest management are assessed; forest fires and agrarian aban- donment are central for territory’s development; depopulation, old age and absenteeism emphasize degradation of forest areas; Conscious citizen participation benefit policymaking and forest management.
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citizen participation , stakeholders , forest management , forest fires , territory , rural development