Analysis of Communication Networks among Stakeholders Involved in the Management of Golestan National Park

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran

2 Department of Forestry Science, Faculty of Forest Science, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran

3 Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Qaemshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qaemshahr, Iran

Abstract

Golestan National Park possesses significant conservation value due to its rich ecological, biological, and landscape diversity. The park encompasses a broad array of stakeholders. Understanding the various stakeholders and their interrelations is essential for effectively managing the challenges faced in this protected area. This study employs the snowball sampling method alongside social network analysis to identify the stakeholders engaged in the issues associated with the park, delineate their communication networks, and uncover the strengths and weaknesses inherent in these networks. Data for this research were collected through a questionnaire and a face-to-face workshop involving 59 stakeholders identified through the snowball process. The analysis was conducted using NetDraw and UCINET 6.528 software. The identification and examination of stakeholders revealed two distinct networks: referral and collaboration networks among the stakeholders associated with the park. A notable positive aspect of the referral and collaboration network among stakeholders was the high level of satisfaction with government agencies and the key role of public agencies. The analysis of this research also highlighted some negative aspects in both networks, including the presence of isolated stakeholders. The network analysis also underscored the importance of trust in public agencies regarding the issues associated with the management of the park. The findings revealed a strong mediating role for Villagers and Councils. Overall, the findings indicate that the park serves as an excellent platform for the implementation of cooperative programs. The detailed results presented in this study could help managers in establishing and executing collaborative initiatives for the park.

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Main Subjects

References

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