Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Providing The Best Of Both Worlds: Balancing Conservation And Recreation In A System Of Protected Areas In Texas, Kellen Allison Smith

LSU Master's Theses

Societies are becoming increasingly urban and isolated from natural areas. Protecting certain natural areas is vital for building and maintaining resilience in ecological systems for the continued conservation of biodiversity and provision of ecological services. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) promotes the development of systems of protected areas within nations and regions as a sustainable means of preserving the biodiversity within natural areas. Allowing sustainable ecotourism and wildlife-based recreation activities in protected areas can provide economic incentives to surrounding communities making protection an attractive alternative to more extractive forms of land use. Managing …