Examining the Linkages Between Community Benefits, Place-Based Meanings, and Conservation Program Involvement: A Study Within the Community Baboon Sanctuary, Belize

Abstract

Nature-based tourism and a voluntary, written conservation pledge within the Community Baboon Sanctuary, Belize, are highlighted examples of community-based conservation initiatives. Little is known, however, about perceived benefits of riparian forests (the conservation focus), the function of place attachment as an incentive to conserving forests, or the role the conservation initiatives play in managing community benefits. A survey of 135 residents investigated place-based meanings of riparian forests and the importance and attainment of perceived community and individual benefits attributed to these landscapes. Results show a significant relationship between initiative involvement and higher perceived benefits (importance) and place attachment (meanings) toward riparian forests and conservation. All residents interviewed, however, regardless of initiative involvement, agree that riparian forests are not providing economic benefits. The findings, which expand on place attachment conceptualizations, provide a better understanding of the social outcomes of conservation and will aid future development and conservation planning of these initiatives.