Integrating analyses of local land-use regulations, cultural perceptions and land-use/land cover data for assessing the success of community-based conservation

摘要: Studies of land-use/land cover change are an important means for examining the viability community-based programs forest conservation, although analysis social processes influencing land-use decisions is necessary to understand factors leading different conservation outcomes. In this paper, we demonstrate that locally recognized rules and regulations embedded in local institutions can inform remote-sensing approaches by helping: (1) elucidate some perceptions, criteria interactions with outside agencies drive actions (2) better interpret spatial patterns revealed data. Based on a case study ejido from Maya Zone Quintana Roo, Mexico, evaluate changes before after initiation mid-1980s community forestry program, Plan Piloto Forestal (PPF). Methods included development time series land maps based LANDSAT imagery 1976, 1988, 1991, 1997 2000, as well interviews participant observation farmers leaders. Results indicate high degree lands net rates loss 0.6‐0.7%/year. Locally number reserves which protect specific types, resulting both initiatives interventions external agencies. These but were not limited PPF, highlighting importance evaluating within broader historical context. Conservation protecting commercial non-timber product (Manilkara zapota) pre-dated PPF may have facilitated its implementation. most accessible agricultural areas, only mature patches customary area regenerated secondary forests, protected due enrichment plantings timbers. Recognition terminology used distinguish types was crucial proper interpretation regulations, less-valued be adequately lands. We suggest future research should examine significance global biodiversity conservation. addition careful consideration antecedents implementation will successful application model other socio-economic cultural contexts. # 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.