Awareness and Knowledge of Protected Area Categories in Phnom Kulen National Park, Cambodia
Faculty Sponsor
Georgina Lloyd, The School for Field Studies
Research Project Abstract
This study examines the awareness and perceptions of individuals surrounding Protected Area (PA) categories and governance of a national park in Cambodia. The park is characterized by complicated governance – the area also contains Community Protected Areas and Archaeological Protected Areas within its boundaries. Few studies have researched governance in the park, and none to date have interviewed a wide spectrum of stakeholders to gauge their understanding and opinions of PAs. Data was collected by interviewing individuals from ten stakeholder groups living or working in the park. This study found that respondents are aware of PA categories, but have gaps in knowledge of specific rules and boundaries. Additionally, opinions vary regarding who should be responsible for protecting cultural and natural resource values. Finally, this study analyzes the legal framework surrounding PAs, revealing discrepancy between the practical management and PA law in the national park.
Session Number
RS8
Location
Robinson 229
Abstract Number
RS8-a
Awareness and Knowledge of Protected Area Categories in Phnom Kulen National Park, Cambodia
Robinson 229
This study examines the awareness and perceptions of individuals surrounding Protected Area (PA) categories and governance of a national park in Cambodia. The park is characterized by complicated governance – the area also contains Community Protected Areas and Archaeological Protected Areas within its boundaries. Few studies have researched governance in the park, and none to date have interviewed a wide spectrum of stakeholders to gauge their understanding and opinions of PAs. Data was collected by interviewing individuals from ten stakeholder groups living or working in the park. This study found that respondents are aware of PA categories, but have gaps in knowledge of specific rules and boundaries. Additionally, opinions vary regarding who should be responsible for protecting cultural and natural resource values. Finally, this study analyzes the legal framework surrounding PAs, revealing discrepancy between the practical management and PA law in the national park.
