Parks - IUCN

LOUISA WILLCOX AND PETER AENGST
❚ much relevant information, particularly in the areas of avian and aquatic resources
and fisheries, still has not been synthesised across the border in a way that would
be most useful to conservation;
❚ the Sense of Place publication was both humbling and surprising. It confirmed in
some ways much of what we do know already – and reaffirmed that we still don’t
know important things about Y2Y as a whole.
Fourth, our outreach efforts are teaching us how to communicate effectively with
diverse constituents, from reporters to park managers.
Some other important lessons we’ve learned include the following:
❚ Be specific about the implications to people of setting up core reserves, transition
zones, and corridors.
- Questions about Y2Y in the region typically focus on what Y2Y will mean on
the ground. Would a recognised wildlife corridor prohibit hunting within its
boundaries? Would any logging be allowed in buffers, and if so, what kinds? Would
quotas on non-motorised recreation in corridors eventually be imposed? Our
answers can often sound ambiguous, since there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer for
a region so diverse, and since science does not always give conclusive answers.
Yet, vague-sounding responses often do not satisfy groups and individuals that are
leery of conservation initiatives in the first place. In fact, in parts of the Y2Y region,
groups opposed to conservation have latched on to this perceived lack of
specificity and been able to spread misperceptions about the Y2Y.
- Thus, the challenge for Y2Y has been to develop some broad, but accurate
statements on generally acceptable activities in core reserves, corridors, or
transition zones – as well as a general philosophy on practices like hunting or
ranching – without creating false expectations or constraining future conservation
plans.
❚ Integrate existing planning processes into Y2Y’s conservation efforts.
- Numerous government-initiated local and regional management-planning
processes have been undertaken in the Y2Y region. While some have been less
than successful, many have effectively compiled important scientific baseline
information and have addressed some key issues of landscape connectivity.
Within Y2Y there is recognition that for conservation planning to be
successful, a full inventory and review of existing agency plans in each region
must precede any ecoregional plans. This review will identify deficiencies and
strengths in existing plans, avoid duplication, and ensure that mapping and
research efforts are focused on crucial gaps in the knowledge base.
❚ Be inclusive.
- Affirming that Y2Y will rely on scientific information and traditional ecological
knowledge and local input has been critical to building public support. Indeed,
Y2Y participants view its role in the process as a catalyst and support centre –
serving to instigate and coordinate work that will be largely carried out by local
groups, scientists, and individuals in the various regions.
Where to from here?
In recent months, we have taken important next steps to further this initiative:
First, we assembled a science oversight committee to help guide us through a
process to orient conservation planning for the future. And, we hired a science
coordinator to assist this scientific dialogue and future analysis.
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