Pastoralism Partnerships: Recognizing the Value of Local Involvement in China’s Snow Leopard Conservation Efforts

摘要: Pastoralists are key stakeholders in environmental management decisions China. Thus, their involvement wildlife conservation and research is imperative for the success of long-term initiatives. Despite many opportunities herders to be included these efforts, biases have hindered knowledge exchange collaborative outcomes. This detrimental species living quickly changing landscapes reliant on effective conservation, such as that snow leopard (Panthera uncia). habitats Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau China possess a deep intricate understanding environments which they live, can serve strong allies by playing direct roles scientific endeavors via expert elicitation engagement. Here, we draw our own experiences academically trained scientists present framework broadening local community member participation efforts species. Framework outcomes include better targeting concerns, increased integration Western science ecological knowledge, additional income community, clearer communication trust between stakeholders, greater flexibility research, platforms community-based conservation. We outline avenues considerations when working with members habitat, submit this an example wide-ranging applicability other parts world where livelihoods intrinsically tied environment.