Public perceptions of planning objectives for regional level management of wild reindeer in Norway

Abstract

We examined community perceptions of preferred objectives for wild reindeer management in Southern Norway as the former population-based model is being replaced with an area-based, multi-level regional management model spanning large mountain regions. Communally oriented objectives are favoured over economic benefits to landowners. Environmental attitudes discriminate on many of the issues and can be useful factors in sorting out levels of support for proposed management actions and compromises in land use decisions. The regional reindeer plans create a new political context for land use management across large mountain areas which will require better cooperation among municipalities.

Linking visitor motivation with attitude towards management restrictions on use in a national park

“…Norway is to implement a knowledge based "adaptive management" process (Strand et al 2013, Kaltenborn et al 2014a (Kaltenborn 1994, Kaltenborn & Qvenild 2011, Haukeland et al 2011. The underlying premise is that an adaptive management approach is well suited for situations with lack of knowledge and uncertainties about the ecological system (i.e.…”

“…Similarly, as the concept of protected areas (that are often within the wild reindeer range) is shifting from "protection from people" to "sustainable use", a much deeper understanding of responses to anthropogenic disturbance is urgently needed to support sustainable and more flexible management strategies (Kaltenborn et al 2014a). One of the main challenges is to manage visitors by different types of site-specific measures and facilities.…”

“…for the national park and regional plans for the protection of wild reindeer (Kaltenborn et al 2014a). …”

“…This knowledge based principle is also imbedded in the Norwegian Nature Diversity Act (2009). Wildlife and land use policy makers need to balance the complexity of competing societal needs, stakeholders, individual requirements and wildlife management goals (Falleth & Hovik 2009, Kaltenborn et al 2014a). …”

“…Kofinas et al 2000, Festa-Bianchet 2011, Panzacchi et al 2012. The establishment of Norwegian national parks since the 1960s has changed the land use, management and development options for many mountain communities in this region considerably (Haukeland et al 2011, Kaltenborn et al 2014a). Legal direct restrictions have been imposed on the recreational use in wild reindeer migration corridors and in calving areas during critical periods of the year in some national parks (e.g.…”