The Role of Ecotourism in supporting socio-economic development in Ajloun Forest Reserve

Solution instantanée

by othman altawalbeh, The Royal Society for Conservation Nature

Ajloun Forest Reserve

Ajloun Forest Reserve

Ajloun Reserve covers 12 sq km from the remaining fragile and fragmented forest patches northern Jordan. The most important component of RSCN’s solution to integrate the local communities in its conservation programs was nature-based low impact ecotourism. We developed eco-tourism infrastructure and facilities (cabins, restaurants, trails) to attract nature lovers to stay overnights in the area, which only received limited numbers of day visitors before the establishment of the reserve. We linked the reserve with the surrounding historical and cultural attractions creating benefits and alternative income to the local communities, and assisted in the rehabilitation of local houses located along the hiking trails as stop points for food and beverage. Our ecotourism product depends on natural and cultural resources, low level of technology with low negative impact on nature respecting the sites carrying capacity.

Dernière modification 18 Oct 2018

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Contexte

Challenges addressed

Scale of implementation

Local

Subnational

Ecosystems

Temperate evergreen forest

Thème

Access and benefit sharing

Biodiversity mainstreaming

Gender mainstreaming

Sustainable livelihoods

Traditional knowledge

Sustainable financing

Tourism

Emplacement

Ajloun Forest Reserve, Ajloun, Ajloun Governorate, Jordan

West Asia, Middle East

Impacts

Eco-tourism and socio-economic projects contributed in generating income to support conservation programs in Ajloun forest reserve. RSCN's solution created jobs “from nature”, changed attitudes towards conservation and helped people understand and value their natural heritage.

Ajloun Reserve became an "Economic Driver " in the low-income governorate as it contributed in creating numerous job opportunities (45 full time staff). Our yearly protected area benefits report shows that in 2017 the reserve expenses were 369000 JDs mostly spent as salaries, goods and services procured from local communities.

Ecotourism contributed in supporting educational and conservation programs at the same time by involving children around the reserve effectively to become potential local community leaders in changing the perception / views of local community around the reserves and become more committed towards the protection of nature.

Ecoutourism supports sustainable development programs at this rural area. It helps develop the infrastructure and provide the inhabitants with the needed services like eletricity , roads, water , and it helps to double the price of the lands . Moreover it became a special destination for Visitors all over the world , and even an Escape for VIP Persons.