Participatory Rangeland Management and Planning framework
Good governance includes participation because it helps empower beneficiaries and improve planning amongst communities. Therefore, participatory Rangeland Management and Planning (PRMP) provides a framework by which approaches can be adapted to different uses in specific contexts. Those unique features include scale, stakeholders to involve, and the seasonal migrations or movement. The aim of PRMP is to facilitate participatory rangeland management planning in a simplified and practical way while considering the unique framework of natural resource management in rangelands.
Continuous dialogue in which relevant stakeholders express their interest and reach consensus on the future rangeland use and management.
Inclusive process in which all relevant stakeholders are represented and engaged in the initial dialogues, preparation of maps, discussions and agreement.
Mobilizing local knowledge and integrating with scientific knowledge to shape the planning processes.
Action oriented, with focus on developing action plans that shape how strategic interventions agreed upon by stakeholders will be implemented.
For sustainable rangeland management, it is important to use a holistic, bottom-up participatory approach that includes local pastoral communities; otherwise, efforts can be lost. Thus, it is essential to adapt the tools to a particular contexts and ecosystems. Also, to deploy training to accompany the solution and promote simplicity and administrative flexibility to adapt to changing environments and predictions to ensure better management of operations of rangelands. The potential for replication is high as the SRM toolkit combines different methods that are fit for different scenarios and the solution has received positive feedback from beneficiaries.
The SMN was launched in September 2020, to offer trained Social Mediation the opportunity to have an accessible forum through which to exchange experience, raise concerns and ask for advice from more experienced Social Mediators. Moreover, based on their local experience, they can provide feedback for future opportunities and take initiatives in the context of the existing Social Mediators’ Network, to maximise sustainability, self-learning, empowerment and inclusion. The SMN uses a horizontal structure so that any member can take their own initiatives and present them to the group. Logistical support for the Network is offered by ICLAIM.
Network, Technology, Digital Network Application (currently being developed)
Considering that the COVID19 pandemic interrupted our normal flow of work, Network members were still able to hold two meetings to date and contribute to suggestions for the networks future support. Using the internet as the main communication tool, the Network has enabled participation from countries across three continents. We are currently developing an app to allow network members to maintain more consistent contact with each other.
Social Mediation (SM) is a conflict resolution tool used for conflicts in a social context, placing individuals and communities across the world at the forefront, in turbulent times. The project uses theoretical concepts around group dynamics, identity, social change and transitions, proposing concrete solutions for the tensions deriving from the socio-economic consequences of the pandemic which divide people in renewed ways. Training workshops use a ‘train-the-trainers’ approach, allowing for multiplier effects and encouraging the spreading of the methodology in communities across the globe. At the same time, all participants and network members and stakeholders learn from each other through a two-way interactive process. We also envisage the preparation of a Global Social Mediation Manual, with the direct and active contribution of our partners, offering solutions based on their local context, which may be adapted and applied to other similar contexts across the world.
Global Network, Technology, Local Expertise
Workshops have been an interactive way to build on previous experience, and collect feedback from participants on further training, information, and expertise needed for the expansion of the project, which we then use to produce deliverables and also to plan future activities. The activities are based on the Social Mediation Handbook, published in 2018. Manuals based on this handbook and the workshops have proven a strong resource to preserve the knowledge gathered and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The Ecopark will be the source of new incomes for all of the participants of the community surrounding the watershed, coming from all activities in the ecopark and sustainable projects like nursery gardens, conservation centres, among others.
The people of the community will have the opportunity to work directly in activities related to the Ecopark such as tourist transport, lodging, guide in ecological activities, bird watching, trekking activities. It will also include the creation of a database, conservation and reforestation program in the La Olga sector, monitoring and control of water quality and flow at points defined as critical to record expected improvements, creation and maintenance of sites.
This project needs to create a strong value of belonging in the community since people will directly establish the correct operation and coordination of the activities the Ecopark offers. As a matter of fact, the biggest lesson learned was to establish strong relationships with the community leaders to enhance the communication and motivation for the correct development of the project.
