MANAGING WILDLIFE AS COMMONS: A CASE STUDY IN MÉXICO

Abstract

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus mexicanus) use regulations were implemented by the ejido Ajuchitlán Santiopan, since 1997. In parallel, the ejidatarios registered a Management Unit for the Conservation of Wildlife (UMA), seeking its sustainable hunting. This involved a co-management between local and federal regulation. The knowledge on these types of processes is sparse in Mexico, and of the impact that they generate in the ejidos. The aim of this study was to understand (from the perception of the inhabitants) the relationship between the creation of the local institution and the establishment of the UMA, using the theoretical perspective of common pool resources (CPR). In-depth interviews, free listings, participant observation and documentary consultation were conducted. Of those interviewed, 46% felt that some federal laws affect traditions, and mentioned that 20% failed to comply with ejido rules. However, 78% said that is important to maintain the UMA, because: it creates temporary jobs; it increased deer abundance and it promoted a natural reintroduction of extinct species in the ejido. Everybody were agreed that main factor for wildlife conservation is the UMA. An essential issue to continue this process is the collective rethinking of achievement targets and monitoring strategies, given the current conditions.