Development of the essential ecosystem area of Taman Kili-Kili Beach Trenggalek as a center for turtle conservation and ecotourism activities

Abstract

The Essential Ecosystem Area (EEA) of Taman Kili-Kili Beach, located in Trenggalek District (East Java), plays an essential role in preserving the biodiversity of protected animals, namely turtles, who play a significant role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, starting from maintaining productive coral reef ecosystems to bringing essential nutrients from the ocean to the coast. This study aims to develop the EEA of Taman Kili-Kili Beach as a center for turtle conservation and an ecotourism destination to improve the community’s welfare while preserving the coastal and marine environment and the biodiversity of protected animals, especially turtles. This study uses a descriptive method to analyze the five forces model. The results show that the existence of turtle conservation will be a strength and attraction for tourists to visit EEA, especially for educational purposes and tourism on the beach. The main weakness is the lack of management of ecotourism support units such as souvenir centers, restaurants, and adequate rest areas. EEA of Taman Kili-Kili Beach can be developed by improving service and quality as an ecotourism destination and a turtle conservation center. This improvement also faces the threat of new entrants and substitutes and competes with competitors.

Turtle Biology Conservation at Taman Kili Kili Beach, Wonocoyo Village

“…The turtles that usually land and lay eggs on this beach are Olive Ridley Turtles. Taman Kili-Kili Beach was designated as an Essential Economic Area (KEE) in 2020 to preserve the ecosystem of this area, especially saving turtles (Antriyandarti, 2023;Darmawan et al, 2020).…”