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Conservation Genetics
In the Australian state of Victoria, the history of koalas and their management has resulted in t... more In the Australian state of Victoria, the history of koalas and their management has resulted in the homogenisation and reduction of genetic diversity in many contemporary populations. Decreased genetic diversity may reduce a species’ ability to adapt to future environmental pressures such as climate change or disease. The South Gippsland koala population is considered to be unique in Victoria, as it is believed to be a remnant population, not originating from managed populations that have low genetic variation. This study investigated genetic structure and diversity of koalas in South Gippsland, with comparison to other populations in Victoria (French Island/Cape Otway, FI and Raymond Island, RI), New South Wales and south east Queensland. Population analyses were undertaken using both microsatellite genotype and mitochondrial DNA sequence data. Non-invasive sampling of koala scats was used to source koala DNA, allowing 222 South Gippsland koalas to be genotyped. Using nuclear data the South Gippsland koala population was found to be significantly differentiated (Djost 95% CI SG–RI = 0.03–0.06 and SG–FI = 0.08–012) and more diverse (AR 95% CI SG = 4.7–5.6, RI = 3.1–3.3, FI = 3.0–3.3; p = 0.001) than other Victorian koala populations, supporting the premise that koalas in the South Gippsland region are part of a remnant population, not derived from translocated island stock. These results were also supported by mitochondrial data where eight haplotypes (Pc4, Pc17, Pc26, Pc27, and Pc56–Pc59) were identified in South Gippsland while a single haplotype (Pc27) was found in all island koalas tested. Compared to other Victorian koala populations, greater genetic diversity found in South Gippsland koalas, may provide this population with a greater chance of survival in the face of future environmental pressures. The South Gippsland koala population is, therefore, of high conservation significance, warranting the implementation of strategies to conserve this population and its diversity into the future.
Feminist Institutionalism and Gendered Bureaucracies
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. I... more Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and while there are major populations in northern India, there are also smaller populations in Nepal and Pakistan. It is now extinct in Bangladesh. The Nepalese population is sparsely distributed, mostly in the lowland Terai areas, and outside of Nepal’s protected area network. Conflict with local farming communities because of crop damage by nilgai has created conservation challenges and our aim was to document the distribution of nilgai and to explore the conflict between nilgai and the human population in lowland Nepal. Our study focused on the Rupendehi District of Nepal during March to August 2016, where a total of 303 nilgai were counted. The highest population of nilgai was in the community forests and lowest in areas of cultivated land. The distribution pattern of nilgai was clumped, with an average herd size of 5.6 individuals per herd. Crop raiding damage by nilgai created a serious problem in the municipalities, known as village development committees which are located close to potential nilgai habitat. The projected crop yield loss due to nilgai in the study area was NRs (Nepali Rupees) 7,275,507 (US$ 68,633) from March 2015 to March 2016. Vegetable and pulses crops were those most damaged by nilgai, contributing to 14.48 and 10.38% of the total losses, respectively. The local people held mixed perceptions of nilgai. The most negative views were held by people who had experienced some extent of crop loss. Suitable protective measures to minimize crop loss are required such as changing cropping patterns and crop composition, particularly cultivation of medicinal plants are suggested as priorities in highly effective zone. The study noted that there were many threats to nilgai including illegal hunting, poisoning, electric fences and habitat deterioration. Successful nilgai conservation will require further education, gaining support from local people and possibly new crop management techniques.
Distance educators, in theorising their practice, take as a starting point Michael Moore's (1... more Distance educators, in theorising their practice, take as a starting point Michael Moore's (1989) typology of learning interactions: learner- teacher, learner-learner and learner-content. Some might accept the suggestion of Hillman, Willis and Gunawardena (1994) that we should also include learner-computer interactions in the typology, though we will argue that in most computer-mediated learning interactions the interface to the content, to
Fundamental and Applied Limnology, 2009
IngentaConnect. ...
Proceedings of the Australian Conference on Science and Mathematics Education, Aug 23, 2011
Journal of Park and Recreation Administration P, 2013
ABSTRACT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is increasingly recognised as ... more ABSTRACT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is increasingly recognised as a useful if not imperative source of information for successful and sustainable management of natural resources and protected areas. Such knowledge is often held by local and indigenous people and is at risk where communities are no longer actively connected with the environment in their daily lives. Jiuzhaigou National Park (JNP) is located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Northern Sichuan Province in south western China. Prior to the establishment of the park, nine Tibetan villages were located in the area and indigenous Tibetan communities still exist within the park. Members of these communities are now largely dependent on park gate fees and other tourism-related activities for their livelihoods so that, for most members of the community, TEK is no longer applied on a daily basis. This research uses a qualitative approach to investigate whether TEK is held by local people who live and work in JNP. Despite rapid social and economic change, evidence of TEK in the form of location specific knowledge and knowledge of environmental linkages was documented during this preliminary study. Older residents within JNP still hold a great deal of knowledge about past and current distributions of plants and animals, as well as traditional and alternative land management approaches, however this study found little evidence of local capacity building and power sharing based upon this knowledge. Park staff also hold substantial place-based ecological knowledge even though few have a formal education in natural resource management or ecology. In addition, staff and residents have significant insights into emerging natural resource management issues both within and outside the park boundaries. A management approach that better integrates local knowledge, including traditional knowledge of ecosystem management is advocated for JNP. ism).
2014 Third International Workshop on Earth Observation and Remote Sensing Applications (EORSA), 2014
ABSTRACT The issue considered by this research report revolves around the broad themes or questio... more ABSTRACT The issue considered by this research report revolves around the broad themes or questions such as: what are we adapting to?; who or what adapts?; and, how does adaptation occur? The challenge that these questions create is that the concept of an adapted settlement encompasses both ‘visual’ and ‘process’ dimensions. Therefore, there is a need to understand how the settlement will decide what it wants to look like in a climate adapted world, and how the settlement is going to achieve this successful adaptation response by (and beyond) 2030. Essentially, adaptation is not something that achieves an endpoint, but is ongoing and responsive to the various impacts that must be adapted to. Thus, there is a need for flexibility, and for adaptive capacity to be initiated and able to continue to change and evolve as required now and into the future. To explore the research questions, a mixed methods approach was undertaken. The work was divided into four parts, each with different methodology emphasis. These parts and methodologies were: These parts represented different research approaches, both qualitative and quantitative in form, most of which could be understood as exploratory in nature. Exploratory research is a method of research in the social sciences that seeks better understanding of the issues at hand when there is not a lot of knowledge around the subject (Stebbins 2001). For the present research, the methodology was strengthened through the process of triangulation, where data was obtained from a number of data sources (Hamlyn 1971). For example, data was acquired from both community consultation and interviews with key community leaders. The findings from the Victorian case studies were then compared with the data from the interstate workshops. This research found that commonalities were found in all locations. The adaptation process was only at an early stage in each location, and was being undertaken in an environment of considerable uncertainty. While engagement with the local communities was taking place, there was a common need for a structure to assist adaptation decision-making. Such a structure would enable community decisions to be included in adaptation action and would allow for better communication and integration between the community and various levels of government. This structure would help to promote the sharing of ideas and experiences to achieve the best possible pathways to adaptation. Common principles which could be shared with other similar Australian settlements generally related to the process to assist adaptation, as each local adaptation outcome will be largely place-specific. Drawing on the Inverloch community consultation, a visual representation of what the community expressed in relation to adaptation is presented. Applying knowledge gained in the research process, the research team provided a framework of adaptation tasks that would fit with the proposed governance decision-making structure. Further examination of the timing of the task of adapting infrastructure was undertaken, using an established economic micro simulation model and regional data bases.
Proceedings of the Australian Conference on Science and Mathematics Education, Aug 23, 2011
Many face-to-face lecture programs are supplemented by recorded lectures. In this study on-campus... more Many face-to-face lecture programs are supplemented by recorded lectures. In this study on-campus students were surveyed regarding their experiences of face-to-face and recorded lectures. The majority of students favoured face-to-face lectures due to the ability to interact with lecturers and other students and the ability to ask questions in real time. Recorded lectures were seen to be useful for clarification and revision, due to the ability to rewind, pause and review.
Journal of Heritage Tourism , 2020
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
This study documents the population status and behaviour of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus gigan... more This study documents the population status and behaviour of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus) at two locations in the temperate environment of the Kathmandu
Valley, Nepal. During the five-month study, from 14th July, 2014 to 2nd January, 2015, peak populations were observed in October, 2014 at Sallaghari (1550 individuals)
and Keshar Mahal (949 individuals). The behavioural study resulted in 1130 observed events of 10 different behavioural activities at Sallaghari and 1158 events of the same activities at Keshar Mahal. Sleeping, grooming, wing spreading and wing flapping were frequently observed at both study sites. The behaviour of P. giganteus is influenced by the weather and air temperature irrespective of hours of the day and date of observation. Habitat destruction, lack of food, pollution and misconception were the major threats to P. giganteus perceived by local people in course of interviews. Knowledge regarding the population size and behaviours of wildlife
species is essential to understand the conservation needs for the survival and management of wild animals and their habitat. This study provides baseline information for two populations of Indian flying fox (P. giganteus) in Kathmandu
Valley Nepal.
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. I... more Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and while there are major populations in northern India, there are also smaller populations in Nepal and Pakistan. It is now extinct in Bangladesh. The Nepalese population is sparsely distributed, mostly in the lowland Terai areas, and outside of Nepal’s protected area network. Conflict with local farming communities because of crop damage by nilgai has created conservation challenges and our aim was to document the distribution of nilgai and to explore the conflict between nilgai and the human population in lowland Nepal. Our study focused on the Rupendehi District of Nepal during March to August 2016, where a total of 303 nilgai were counted. The highest population of nilgai was in the community forests and lowest in areas of cultivated land. The distribution pattern of nilgai was clumped, with an average herd size of 5.6 individuals per herd. Crop raiding damage by nilgai created a serious problem in the municipalities, known as village development committees which are located close to potential nilgai habitat. The projected crop yield loss due to nilgai in the study area was NRs (Nepali Rupees) 7,275,507 (US$ 68,633) from March 2015 to March 2016. Vegetable and pulses crops were those
most damaged by nilgai, contributing to 14.48 and 10.38% of the total losses, respectively. The local people held mixed perceptions of nilgai. The most negative views were held by people who had experienced some extent of crop loss. Suitable protective measures to minimize crop loss are required such as changing cropping patterns and crop composition, particularly cultivation of medicinal plants are suggested as priorities in highly effective zone. The study noted that there were many threats to nilgai including illegal hunting, poisoning, electric fences and habitat
deterioration. Successful nilgai conservation will require further education, gaining support from local people and possibly new crop management techniques.
Ecosystem Services (ES) are services provided to local communities by natural resources. Cultural... more Ecosystem Services (ES) are services provided to local communities by natural resources. Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) are the nonmaterial benefits that people obtain from ecosystems. ES, and particularly CES are often omitted from cost-benefit analyses associated with development plans in favour of a focus on maximizing economic benefits. Consequently, economic development can lead to the disappearance of cultural values such as local knowledge, and cultural identity. This research attempts to understand and analyze CES and benefits provided by rattan gardens for local communities in Tumbang Runen village in Indonesia. Information about CES was obtained through in-depth interviews with key informants, focus group discussions with farmers, and observations of daily activities of local people. This research revealed that residents of Tumbang Runen village attach strong cultural importance to their rattan gardens, including spiritual, heritage and local knowledge values. The spiritual aspects of CES include the use of some plant species in rituals and healing ceremonies. Local people consider rattan to be historically important, intimately linking people with their ancestors and their belief system. Rattan gardens and rattan cultivation also serve as cultural symbols, facilitating the maintenance of practices, beliefs, and knowledge across
generations. The importance of rattan gardens to the local community should be communicated to policy makers and included in sustainable development strategies.
The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the Nationa... more The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973) was promulgated and Chitwan National Park was established. In the years immediately following these key events, protected area acts and regulations were strictly applied and the role of local people in managing natural resources was neglected. However with the passage of time, and with changes in the socio-political and economic characteristics of Nepal, management regimes have shifted towards a more liberal model which recognizes more clearly the contributions of people living and working within protected areas. Recently, landscape level conservation models including the designation of multiple use areas have been utilized in the development of management plans for protected areas in Nepal. Conservation agencies have attempted to tackle challenges such as land use conflict, poaching and smuggling of wildlife parts and illegal harvesting of highly valued medicinal herbs through regulation, but these efforts are not always successful. We recommend a holistic conflict resolution approach which recognizes and resolves the different needs of all stakeholders.
Conservation Genetics
In the Australian state of Victoria, the history of koalas and their management has resulted in t... more In the Australian state of Victoria, the history of koalas and their management has resulted in the homogenisation and reduction of genetic diversity in many contemporary populations. Decreased genetic diversity may reduce a species’ ability to adapt to future environmental pressures such as climate change or disease. The South Gippsland koala population is considered to be unique in Victoria, as it is believed to be a remnant population, not originating from managed populations that have low genetic variation. This study investigated genetic structure and diversity of koalas in South Gippsland, with comparison to other populations in Victoria (French Island/Cape Otway, FI and Raymond Island, RI), New South Wales and south east Queensland. Population analyses were undertaken using both microsatellite genotype and mitochondrial DNA sequence data. Non-invasive sampling of koala scats was used to source koala DNA, allowing 222 South Gippsland koalas to be genotyped. Using nuclear data the South Gippsland koala population was found to be significantly differentiated (Djost 95% CI SG–RI = 0.03–0.06 and SG–FI = 0.08–012) and more diverse (AR 95% CI SG = 4.7–5.6, RI = 3.1–3.3, FI = 3.0–3.3; p = 0.001) than other Victorian koala populations, supporting the premise that koalas in the South Gippsland region are part of a remnant population, not derived from translocated island stock. These results were also supported by mitochondrial data where eight haplotypes (Pc4, Pc17, Pc26, Pc27, and Pc56–Pc59) were identified in South Gippsland while a single haplotype (Pc27) was found in all island koalas tested. Compared to other Victorian koala populations, greater genetic diversity found in South Gippsland koalas, may provide this population with a greater chance of survival in the face of future environmental pressures. The South Gippsland koala population is, therefore, of high conservation significance, warranting the implementation of strategies to conserve this population and its diversity into the future.
Feminist Institutionalism and Gendered Bureaucracies
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. I... more Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and while there are major populations in northern India, there are also smaller populations in Nepal and Pakistan. It is now extinct in Bangladesh. The Nepalese population is sparsely distributed, mostly in the lowland Terai areas, and outside of Nepal’s protected area network. Conflict with local farming communities because of crop damage by nilgai has created conservation challenges and our aim was to document the distribution of nilgai and to explore the conflict between nilgai and the human population in lowland Nepal. Our study focused on the Rupendehi District of Nepal during March to August 2016, where a total of 303 nilgai were counted. The highest population of nilgai was in the community forests and lowest in areas of cultivated land. The distribution pattern of nilgai was clumped, with an average herd size of 5.6 individuals per herd. Crop raiding damage by nilgai created a serious problem in the municipalities, known as village development committees which are located close to potential nilgai habitat. The projected crop yield loss due to nilgai in the study area was NRs (Nepali Rupees) 7,275,507 (US$ 68,633) from March 2015 to March 2016. Vegetable and pulses crops were those most damaged by nilgai, contributing to 14.48 and 10.38% of the total losses, respectively. The local people held mixed perceptions of nilgai. The most negative views were held by people who had experienced some extent of crop loss. Suitable protective measures to minimize crop loss are required such as changing cropping patterns and crop composition, particularly cultivation of medicinal plants are suggested as priorities in highly effective zone. The study noted that there were many threats to nilgai including illegal hunting, poisoning, electric fences and habitat deterioration. Successful nilgai conservation will require further education, gaining support from local people and possibly new crop management techniques.
Distance educators, in theorising their practice, take as a starting point Michael Moore's (1... more Distance educators, in theorising their practice, take as a starting point Michael Moore's (1989) typology of learning interactions: learner- teacher, learner-learner and learner-content. Some might accept the suggestion of Hillman, Willis and Gunawardena (1994) that we should also include learner-computer interactions in the typology, though we will argue that in most computer-mediated learning interactions the interface to the content, to
Fundamental and Applied Limnology, 2009
IngentaConnect. ...
Proceedings of the Australian Conference on Science and Mathematics Education, Aug 23, 2011
Journal of Park and Recreation Administration P, 2013
ABSTRACT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is increasingly recognised as ... more ABSTRACT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is increasingly recognised as a useful if not imperative source of information for successful and sustainable management of natural resources and protected areas. Such knowledge is often held by local and indigenous people and is at risk where communities are no longer actively connected with the environment in their daily lives. Jiuzhaigou National Park (JNP) is located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Northern Sichuan Province in south western China. Prior to the establishment of the park, nine Tibetan villages were located in the area and indigenous Tibetan communities still exist within the park. Members of these communities are now largely dependent on park gate fees and other tourism-related activities for their livelihoods so that, for most members of the community, TEK is no longer applied on a daily basis. This research uses a qualitative approach to investigate whether TEK is held by local people who live and work in JNP. Despite rapid social and economic change, evidence of TEK in the form of location specific knowledge and knowledge of environmental linkages was documented during this preliminary study. Older residents within JNP still hold a great deal of knowledge about past and current distributions of plants and animals, as well as traditional and alternative land management approaches, however this study found little evidence of local capacity building and power sharing based upon this knowledge. Park staff also hold substantial place-based ecological knowledge even though few have a formal education in natural resource management or ecology. In addition, staff and residents have significant insights into emerging natural resource management issues both within and outside the park boundaries. A management approach that better integrates local knowledge, including traditional knowledge of ecosystem management is advocated for JNP. ism).
2014 Third International Workshop on Earth Observation and Remote Sensing Applications (EORSA), 2014
ABSTRACT The issue considered by this research report revolves around the broad themes or questio... more ABSTRACT The issue considered by this research report revolves around the broad themes or questions such as: what are we adapting to?; who or what adapts?; and, how does adaptation occur? The challenge that these questions create is that the concept of an adapted settlement encompasses both ‘visual’ and ‘process’ dimensions. Therefore, there is a need to understand how the settlement will decide what it wants to look like in a climate adapted world, and how the settlement is going to achieve this successful adaptation response by (and beyond) 2030. Essentially, adaptation is not something that achieves an endpoint, but is ongoing and responsive to the various impacts that must be adapted to. Thus, there is a need for flexibility, and for adaptive capacity to be initiated and able to continue to change and evolve as required now and into the future. To explore the research questions, a mixed methods approach was undertaken. The work was divided into four parts, each with different methodology emphasis. These parts and methodologies were: These parts represented different research approaches, both qualitative and quantitative in form, most of which could be understood as exploratory in nature. Exploratory research is a method of research in the social sciences that seeks better understanding of the issues at hand when there is not a lot of knowledge around the subject (Stebbins 2001). For the present research, the methodology was strengthened through the process of triangulation, where data was obtained from a number of data sources (Hamlyn 1971). For example, data was acquired from both community consultation and interviews with key community leaders. The findings from the Victorian case studies were then compared with the data from the interstate workshops. This research found that commonalities were found in all locations. The adaptation process was only at an early stage in each location, and was being undertaken in an environment of considerable uncertainty. While engagement with the local communities was taking place, there was a common need for a structure to assist adaptation decision-making. Such a structure would enable community decisions to be included in adaptation action and would allow for better communication and integration between the community and various levels of government. This structure would help to promote the sharing of ideas and experiences to achieve the best possible pathways to adaptation. Common principles which could be shared with other similar Australian settlements generally related to the process to assist adaptation, as each local adaptation outcome will be largely place-specific. Drawing on the Inverloch community consultation, a visual representation of what the community expressed in relation to adaptation is presented. Applying knowledge gained in the research process, the research team provided a framework of adaptation tasks that would fit with the proposed governance decision-making structure. Further examination of the timing of the task of adapting infrastructure was undertaken, using an established economic micro simulation model and regional data bases.
Proceedings of the Australian Conference on Science and Mathematics Education, Aug 23, 2011
Many face-to-face lecture programs are supplemented by recorded lectures. In this study on-campus... more Many face-to-face lecture programs are supplemented by recorded lectures. In this study on-campus students were surveyed regarding their experiences of face-to-face and recorded lectures. The majority of students favoured face-to-face lectures due to the ability to interact with lecturers and other students and the ability to ask questions in real time. Recorded lectures were seen to be useful for clarification and revision, due to the ability to rewind, pause and review.
Journal of Heritage Tourism , 2020
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
This study documents the population status and behaviour of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus gigan... more This study documents the population status and behaviour of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus) at two locations in the temperate environment of the Kathmandu
Valley, Nepal. During the five-month study, from 14th July, 2014 to 2nd January, 2015, peak populations were observed in October, 2014 at Sallaghari (1550 individuals)
and Keshar Mahal (949 individuals). The behavioural study resulted in 1130 observed events of 10 different behavioural activities at Sallaghari and 1158 events of the same activities at Keshar Mahal. Sleeping, grooming, wing spreading and wing flapping were frequently observed at both study sites. The behaviour of P. giganteus is influenced by the weather and air temperature irrespective of hours of the day and date of observation. Habitat destruction, lack of food, pollution and misconception were the major threats to P. giganteus perceived by local people in course of interviews. Knowledge regarding the population size and behaviours of wildlife
species is essential to understand the conservation needs for the survival and management of wild animals and their habitat. This study provides baseline information for two populations of Indian flying fox (P. giganteus) in Kathmandu
Valley Nepal.
Proceedings of the Zoological Society
Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. I... more Blue bull, or ‘Nilgai’ (Boselaphus tragocamelus, Pallas, 1766) is the sole member of its genus. It is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and while there are major populations in northern India, there are also smaller populations in Nepal and Pakistan. It is now extinct in Bangladesh. The Nepalese population is sparsely distributed, mostly in the lowland Terai areas, and outside of Nepal’s protected area network. Conflict with local farming communities because of crop damage by nilgai has created conservation challenges and our aim was to document the distribution of nilgai and to explore the conflict between nilgai and the human population in lowland Nepal. Our study focused on the Rupendehi District of Nepal during March to August 2016, where a total of 303 nilgai were counted. The highest population of nilgai was in the community forests and lowest in areas of cultivated land. The distribution pattern of nilgai was clumped, with an average herd size of 5.6 individuals per herd. Crop raiding damage by nilgai created a serious problem in the municipalities, known as village development committees which are located close to potential nilgai habitat. The projected crop yield loss due to nilgai in the study area was NRs (Nepali Rupees) 7,275,507 (US$ 68,633) from March 2015 to March 2016. Vegetable and pulses crops were those
most damaged by nilgai, contributing to 14.48 and 10.38% of the total losses, respectively. The local people held mixed perceptions of nilgai. The most negative views were held by people who had experienced some extent of crop loss. Suitable protective measures to minimize crop loss are required such as changing cropping patterns and crop composition, particularly cultivation of medicinal plants are suggested as priorities in highly effective zone. The study noted that there were many threats to nilgai including illegal hunting, poisoning, electric fences and habitat
deterioration. Successful nilgai conservation will require further education, gaining support from local people and possibly new crop management techniques.
Ecosystem Services (ES) are services provided to local communities by natural resources. Cultural... more Ecosystem Services (ES) are services provided to local communities by natural resources. Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) are the nonmaterial benefits that people obtain from ecosystems. ES, and particularly CES are often omitted from cost-benefit analyses associated with development plans in favour of a focus on maximizing economic benefits. Consequently, economic development can lead to the disappearance of cultural values such as local knowledge, and cultural identity. This research attempts to understand and analyze CES and benefits provided by rattan gardens for local communities in Tumbang Runen village in Indonesia. Information about CES was obtained through in-depth interviews with key informants, focus group discussions with farmers, and observations of daily activities of local people. This research revealed that residents of Tumbang Runen village attach strong cultural importance to their rattan gardens, including spiritual, heritage and local knowledge values. The spiritual aspects of CES include the use of some plant species in rituals and healing ceremonies. Local people consider rattan to be historically important, intimately linking people with their ancestors and their belief system. Rattan gardens and rattan cultivation also serve as cultural symbols, facilitating the maintenance of practices, beliefs, and knowledge across
generations. The importance of rattan gardens to the local community should be communicated to policy makers and included in sustainable development strategies.
The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the Nationa... more The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973) was promulgated and Chitwan National Park was established. In the years immediately following these key events, protected area acts and regulations were strictly applied and the role of local people in managing natural resources was neglected. However with the passage of time, and with changes in the socio-political and economic characteristics of Nepal, management regimes have shifted towards a more liberal model which recognizes more clearly the contributions of people living and working within protected areas. Recently, landscape level conservation models including the designation of multiple use areas have been utilized in the development of management plans for protected areas in Nepal. Conservation agencies have attempted to tackle challenges such as land use conflict, poaching and smuggling of wildlife parts and illegal harvesting of highly valued medicinal herbs through regulation, but these efforts are not always successful. We recommend a holistic conflict resolution approach which recognizes and resolves the different needs of all stakeholders.
The Pigfooted Bandicoot, Chaeropus ecaudatus, is a recently extinct member of the Peramelidae, no... more The Pigfooted Bandicoot, Chaeropus ecaudatus, is a recently extinct member of the Peramelidae, not having been reported since 1926 (Ride 1970). Literature on its diet is scarce
and conflicting, the earlier reports mainly consisting of anecdotal observations. Krefft (1865) considered Chaeropus to be herbivorous, while Sturt (1848) described it as a flesh-eater (in Dixon, 1988). Gould listed insects and their larvae as well as plant material as dietary items (in Dixon, 1988), while a gut content analysis Dixon (1988) suggested that Chaeropus was
herbivorous.
Taking some important considerations into account, a great deal about the diet of a mammal can be inferred from its teeth (Sanson this volume, Chap.7). Chaeropus molars, while
showing some similarities to those of other bandicoots, are the most highly specialised (Bensley 1903) within this group. Their development of shearing crests is unique. Consequently, there are no appropriate analogues to compare them with. However, it is possible to obtain information about occlusion and the action of the teeth from a study of the wear on their surfaces (e.g. Butler 1952, Mills 1967, Greaves 1972, Rensberger 1978) .
Coupled with information about the physical properties of dietary items and the shape of tooth morphology best suited to break them up (e.g. Lucas & Luke 1984, Frazetta 1988), a
knowledge of functional dental morphology can allow predictions regarding the sorts of food that particular teeth would be most effective at reducing in size. For example, Hill (1985) found that ductile materials are best cut by sharp blades or points which concentrate force over a small surface area. A blunt surface tends to deform matcrials without penetration, unless a larger force is applied. Brittle materials are shattered due to a force applied by a blunt or a sharp surface and eventual failure is due to cracks which form and grow within the material (Gordon 1976). In extant animals, predictions regarding diet can be confirmed by dietary
studies. Sanson( 1978, 1980), from a study of macropodid molar morphology, concluded that Macropus rufogriseus and Thylogale billardieri were predominantly grazers and browsers
respectively, although detailed dietary studies for the two species were unavailable. Subsequently Fletcher (1980) confirmed these predictions, giving us some confidence that the techniques have predictive power.
Some spirit preserved specimens of Chaeropus survive, and one of these was kindly made available by Ms J. Dixon of the Museum of Victoria. This allowed examination of the
morphology of the digestive system and of the gut contents. It is not known whether the animal was kept alive and fed in captivity before it died. Thus, the gut contents may not reflect
the natural diet. However, in this case there is much corroborative evidence to suggest that this species was herbivorous.
The present study aimed to examine the interactive effects of elevated atmospheric CO 2 concentra... more The present study aimed to examine the interactive effects of elevated atmospheric CO 2 concentration and drought stress on the growth and some of the physiological processes of Galenia pubescens. Photosynthetic rate of plants increased under elevated CO 2 concentration, however drought caused significant reduction in net photosynthetic rate by (45% in 400 ppm CO 2) and (27% in 700 ppm CO 2) after five days simulating the drought treatment when compared with well-watered plants. Plants grown under elevated CO 2 level and well-watered produced a greater biomass (17.5 ± 0.5 g per plant) compared to the plants which were grown under the ambient CO 2 concentration.
There is a large body of literature which acknowledges that women play vital roles in protecting ... more There is a large body of literature which acknowledges that women play vital roles in protecting and managing forest resources around the world (Agarwal, 2010b; Colfer, 2013;
FAO, 2006, 2007; Mai, Mwangi, & Wan, 2011; Sewell Jr, 1992). Despite their contributions to forest management, women are still largely excluded from decision making roles in forestry organizations, especially in developing countries (FAO, 2007). As a result, most of the forestry related decisions are made by males, resulting in the marginalisation of women’s interests in forest management and minimizing the potential contributions of women (ABS, 2013; Christie & Giri, 2011; Lidestav, 2010).
The history of forest management in Nepal typifies this gender bias in forestry governance (Christie & Giri, 2011; Giri & Faculty, 2008). While men are actively involved in decision making processes within formal environmental organizations and institutions, women are more likely to be involved at informal and grass root levels, including as an unpaid labour force (Agarwal, 2010b). Before the introduction of community based forestry programs, the Nepalese Ministry of Forests and its subsidiaries (referred to here as the forest bureaucracy)
was the major organization responsible for governing the forestry sector. After the introduction and advancement of community based forest management programs, and the
entry of civil society, donor and other private sector organizations, the scope and nature of forestry governance has been extended in Nepal. Although, this shift in paradigm opened space for the entry of women into different forestry institutions, the under representation of women in forest bureaucracy (still a major part of forestry governance) still continues.
Nepalese rural women have low literacy rates and little involvement in public spheres. As a result there is limited access, for women working at the grassroots level, to national level policy making, planning and implementation. It is usually assumed that professional women bring women’s issues and interests into forestry policy and programmes on behalf of
grassroots level women. This representation is not always effective (Giri and Faculty, 2008, Agarwal, 2010b). Government forestry institutions represent the country in participating in
different national and international forestry agendas including climate change. If ‘grassroots’ women’s agendas are excluded from decision making processes in regard to environment
related agendas, the solutions proposed for environmental problems may be ineffective or only partially effective (WOCAN, 2012).
This paper examines the existing legislative measures and institutional practices that facilitate or constrain the role of women in Nepalese forestry institutions. This study also investigates how the gendered institutional norms and values associated with forest-governing institutions, such as forest bureaucracies, shape the nature and extent of women’s involvement in decision making processes in the Nepalese forest bureaucracy.
We use Feminist Institutionalism (FI) to examine the effect of the gendered nature of forestry institutions, policies and practices that shape the role of women in forest bureaucracy. We extend New Institutionalism (NI) by incorporating feminist perspectives to forestry governance. In exploring why the gender mainstreaming of legislative measures and practices
has not been wholly effective, it is important to examine the informal norms and values within an institution. These act to shape both the behaviour of the individual and political
outcomes. Since forestry is highly gendered sector based on different social norms and values, NI is considered a good approach to study those institutions. New Institutionalism is a cutting theme which crosses various disciplines, and holds the interest of historians, sociologists, economists, political scientists and social theorists (Goodin, 1996). New Institutionalism was constructed as a progressive version of older, descriptive approaches to institutionalism in order to understand the role of formal and informal rules which affect the political behaviour of individuals (Gherardi, 1996).
This paper examines opportunities and challenges involved in: a) promoting women’s participation in forest governance; and b) establishing an influential role for women in forestry governance. To date, researchers using the approach of institutionalism have not adequately considered the gender perspective, especially within the context of developing
countries (Tripp, 2007). This study will therefore extend NI further through theoretical and practical insights, relating gendered issues to NI and particularly its sub-branch, FI.
In: Conquistare la montagna: Storia di un'idea (Conquering mountains: The history of an idea), 2016
Questo volume è stato realizzato grazie al contributo dell'Accademia del Frignano "Lo Scoltenna" ... more Questo volume è stato realizzato grazie al contributo dell'Accademia del Frignano "Lo Scoltenna" © 2016 Pearson Italia, Milano-Torino Per i passi antologici, per le citazioni, per le riproduzioni graiche, cartograiche e fotograiche appartenenti alla proprietà di terzi, inseriti in quest'opera, l'editore è a disposizione degli aventi diritto non potuti reperire nonché per eventuali non volute omissioni e/o errori di attribuzione nei riferimenti.
The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the Nationa... more The modern history of protected area (PA) management in Nepal dates back to 1973 when the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973) was promulgated and Chitwan National Park was established. In the years immediately following these key events, protected area acts and regulations were strictly applied and the role of local people in managing natural resources was neglected. However with the passage of time, and with changes in the socio-political and economic characteristics of Nepal, management regimes have shifted towards a more liberal model which recognizes more clearly the contributions of people living and working within protected areas. Recently, landscape level conservation models including the designation of multiple use areas have been utilized in the development of management plans for protected areas in Nepal. Conservation agencies have attempted to tackle challenges such as land use conflict, poaching and smuggling of wildlife parts and illegal harvesting of highly valued medicinal herbs through regulation, but these efforts are not always successful. We recommend a holistic conflict resolution approach which recognizes and resolves the different needs of all stakeholders.