The potential of hunting societies as a conservation tool in Spain

Abstract

Gutiérrez, J.E. (2013). The potential of hunting societies as a conservation tool in Spain. Ecosistemas 22(2):104-106. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.2013.22-2.15

"Top-down" conservation models have proved insufficient to effectively halt the loss of biodiversity. Because of this problem, programs based on participation of local communities in the conservation of their territories have been implemented, mainly in Africa, South America and Asia. These programs based on "bottom-up" models have revealed the importance of participatory processes for successful conservation programs. But in Europe, where many conservation problems are related to the lack of participation and involvement of rural collectives, initiatives to incorporate participatory processes are rare and usually unsuccessful. It is therefore critical to progress in the search for effective strategies and tools to achieve this objective. In this context, hunting societies in Spain could be a paradigmatic experience of this "bottom-up" conservation model. Hunting societies have an extraordinary potential as a conservation tool since: i) they manage large areas, over 6.5 million hectares, many of high conservation value; ii) they are soundly established in rural areas, and iii) their social model, with a participatory and democratic decision-making system. Despite this, little is known of this exploitation model and of the effects of its environmental externalities. Progress in this field would open a high value, innovative line of research for biodiversity conservation in Europe.