Perceptions of collective action and its success in community based natural resource management: An empirical analysis

Published Date
1 December 2006, Vol.9(3):274–284, doi:10.1016/j.forpol.2005.06.014

Author 

• Jagannadha R. Matta ^,
 
• Janaki R.R. Alavalapati

• School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110410, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611-0410, USA

Received 2 October 2004. Revised 13 May 2005. Accepted 13 June 2005. Available online 26 September 2005.

Abstract

Community based natural resource management (CBNRM) has received considerable attention in recent years and is being actively encouraged across the world as a successful strategy in promoting natural resource governance. Its efficacy in the field, however, is highly variable. The present study, based on an empirical analysis of the Joint Forest Management program in Tamil Nadu, India, explores the variation in the perceptions of collective action among community members, and analyzes the factors influencing perceptions of its performance. The results underline the need for a shared understanding of the collective action among community members for the joint venture's success and sustainability. Further, the analysis highlights the role of costs and benefits entailed in collective action in influencing the perceptions of its performance. The authors suggest careful consideration of differences in community members' understanding of the collective action and its impacts, before and during the implementation of CBNRM strategies.

Keywords

Collective action

Community based resource management 

Perceptions of success

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