The cooperative development relationship between Nature Reserves and local communities

Abstract

The coordinated relationship between Nature Reserves (NRs) and adjacent communities has a significant impact on both these local communities and conservation management practices. However, the precise relationship between NRs and their surrounding communities remains poorly understood, whether it is coordinated or unbalanced? This study employed a matrix analysis approach alongside a coordination degree model to assess the relationship and the degree of coordination between the Xiaoheishan NRs (Xhs NRs) and local communities. In addition, a structural equation model was used to analyze the factors that influence the degree of coordination between the Xhs NRs and adjacent communities. Taking into account the willingness of these communities, a prospective development model was proposed. The results of the study revealed that: (1) the relationship between the Xhs NRs and their surrounding communities was predominantly characterized by a protection‐oriented approach, particularly in the subprotected regions of Xhs, Dxs, and Jzs. (2) The path analysis revealed that the level of dependence, knowledge, and cost perception among the Xhs NRs communities had a direct negative influence on the degree of coordination. Conversely, the attitudes and perceived benefits to the Xhs NRs had a direct positive effect. (3) The pathway to future development involves a triple model approach: a public participation model, an economic model that focuses on mutual benefits and a protection and poverty alleviation model. The relationship between NRs and surrounding communities should be accurately defined; and the contradiction between protection and development should be fully coordinated. To achieve coordinated development of NRs and communities that reside close by, the Xhs NRs, along with other smaller and scattered NRs, should actively involve the public, particularly local communities, in conservation management.

Variations in epidermal trichomes of a mystic weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. from semi-arid regions of Barmer, Rajasthan (India)

“…Plant conservation is essential for future reference and taxonomic value. The way in which Nature Reserves and neighboring communities collaborate has a big influence on conservation management strategies as well as the local community ( Guo et al., 2024 ). In order to conserve and better comprehend ecosystem services, it is also beneficial to raise education levels, create community norms and regulations, fortify human-nature relationships, and use ecological indigenous notions in environmental management ( Ke et al., 2024 ).…”