Beyond fortress conservation: The long-term integration of natural and social science research for an inclusive conservation practice in India. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rai, Nitin D.; Devy, M. Soubadra; Ganesh, T.; Ganesan, R.; Setty, Siddappa R.; Hiremath, Ankila J.; Khaling, Sarala; Rajan, Priyadarsanan Dharma
• Is Part Of: Biological conservation. Volume 254(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Protected areas -- Community-based conservation -- Socio-ecological systems -- Nontimber forest produce -- Long term ecological dynamics -- Rights-based conservation; Conservation of natural resources -- Periodicals; Nature conservation -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Environmental Pollution -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 333.9516
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2020.108888
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0006-3207

Abstract

Abstract: The separation of people from their landscapes undergirds conservation action, especially in the global south. Such a 'fortress conservation' approach is based on the flawed idea that local people's use of forests endangers biodiversity and therefore habitats should be protected by force if necessary. Such a conservation approach runs contrary to the recent understanding that ecosystems once perceived as 'wilderness' have been transformed by people. Long-term interdisciplinary research has produced a nuanced understanding of the linkages between ecological and social processes. An example of such long-term engagement is a series of programmes by Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) in the Western Ghats and the Himalayas. We describe programmes in four sites: Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger reserve, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary and Vembanad Ramsar site. Our experiences highlight primarily, a broadening of the initial focus on the ecological dynamics to include social dimensions. Secondly, a programmatic rather than a project-mode approach has enabled a clear long-term vision. Third, the research and action work has continued a tradition in conservation science of field-based, empirical work driven by theory as well as produced grounded knowledge. Such a long-term 'dirt on the boots' approach has built a platform from which ATREE is able to launch programmes that have made an impact on livelihoods and landscapes. And finally, long-term engagement and a strong network of local actors have allowed us to implement and inform conservation policy.