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Shifting Power in Practice: Implementing Relational Research and Evaluation in Conservation Science

Author

Listed:
  • Tamara J. Layden

    (Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA)

  • Sofía Fernández

    (Independent Researcher, Escuintla 05001, Guatemala)

  • Mynor Sandoval-Lemus

    (Independent Researcher, Escuintla 05001, Guatemala)

  • Kelsey J. Sonius

    (Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA)

  • Dominique David-Chavez

    (Department of Forest & Rangeland Stewardship, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA)

  • Sara P. Bombaci

    (Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA)

Abstract
Elevating Indigenous leadership in conservation science is critical for social and ecological wellbeing. However, Indigenous knowledges are frequently undermined by persistent colonial research standards. In response, calls to implement ethical guidelines that advance Indigenous research and data governance are mounting. Despite this growing movement, most environmental studies continue to follow largely colonial, extractive models, presenting a widening gap between ethical guidelines and practical applications across diverse research contexts. To address this gap, our study aims to design and evaluate a wildlife conservation research project based on the Relational Science Model, which outlines guidance for improving research relations with Indigenous Peoples. To achieve this aim, we conducted a post-survey to evaluate the project from the perspectives of the intended beneficiaries of La Bendición in southwestern Guatemala, accompanied by researcher reflections and observations. The results revealed strong agreement between community research partner experience and Relational Science Model outcomes, including relevant and innovative knowledge generation, alongside improved trust in research collaborations. Respondents also outlined several areas of improvement, including a desire for more diverse community engagement, particularly regarding youth. Overall, this study outlines pathways and recommendations for researchers, institutions, and agencies to improve relational accountability in conservation science practice, supporting Indigenous conservation governance and environmental justice.

Suggested Citation

  • Tamara J. Layden & Sofía Fernández & Mynor Sandoval-Lemus & Kelsey J. Sonius & Dominique David-Chavez & Sara P. Bombaci, 2024. "Shifting Power in Practice: Implementing Relational Research and Evaluation in Conservation Science," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 13(10), pages 1-20, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:13:y:2024:i:10:p:555-:d:1500823
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