Diversity and Adaptation in Local Forest Governance in Yunnan, China

Abstract

Natural resource governance is often approached with a single resource or goal in mind. Locally developed community based resource management systems may instead encompass a suite of different natural and cultural resources, as well as aim to achieve multiple social and ecological goals simultaneously. I examine contemporary commons management through the lens of community-based forest governance in 32 communities in Yunnan Province, China. Synthesizing interviews, ethnographic research and published literature on community-level wild mushroom management systems in Yunnan reveals that institutions are focused on social and economic goals, are often adapted over time, and make up only one component of complex multi-resource forest governance arrangements. Flexibility over time, resource type, and land tenure regime allows individuals to variably participate in forest resource extraction and management activities and may promote greater access and equitability than static regulations. Documenting diverse community-led forest management strategies in Yunnan highlights the importance of local experimentation and values for adaptive governance in complex socioecological systems.