Profiling unauthorized natural resource users for better targeting of conservation interventions

Unauthorized natural resource use persists in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, despite over 25 years of integrated conservation and development (ICD) projects. Research reveals that unauthorized activity is most prevalent among the poorest households living closest to the park boundary and farthest from roads and trading centers. Key motivations include crop raiding by wild animals, inequity in revenue sharing, and lack of employment, which fuel resentment among vulnerable communities. While ICD benefits were found to be significant deterrents against unauthorized use, law enforcement remained the top-ranking factor. The study employed household surveys, indirect questioning techniques (unmatched count technique), and focus group discussions to profile users and explore motivations, providing actionable insights for conservation interventions. To mitigate unauthorized activity, the authors recommend targeting ICD benefits to the poorest populations in remote areas near park boundaries, ensuring transparent and equitable management while addressing crop raiding and providing affordable alternatives.

Harrison, M., Baker, J., Twinamatsiko, M., & Milner‐Gulland, E. J. (2015). Profiling unauthorized natural resource users for better targeting of conservation interventions. Conservation Biology, 29(6), 1636–1646. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.12575