Abstract

From Field to Filed!
Track: Parks and Natural Reserves
Authors: Marina Faber, Craig Beech

Peace Parks Foundation (PPF) facilitates the establishment of cross-border (international) protected areas, working mostly in southern Africa. To assist with protected area management, planning and decision-making; re-establish animal migration routes; and develop local communities through conservation and ecotourism within the Transfrontier Conservation Areas, PPF have designed, tested and implemented various technologies to simplify the flow of information from the field worker through to the head office. Spatial data on human-wildlife conflict; species sightings; community livelihoods; marine species sightings and beach patrols; and cultural information are collected and reported on to both the field workers and managers. Some of the many challenges faced include integrating disconnected computer systems; lack of power and connectivity due to remote locations; illiteracy; and adapting collection practices to each unique situation.

Marina Faber
Peace Parks Foundation
P.O. Box 12743
Die Boord
Stellenbosch, Western Cape 7613
South Africa
Phone: +27 21 887 6188
Fax: +27 21 887 6189
E-mail: mfaber@ppf.org.za

Craig Beech
Peace Parks Foundation
16 Stellentia Avenue
Die Boord
Stellenbosch, Western Cape 7613
South Africa
Phone: +27 (0) 21 887 6188
Fax: +27 (0) 21 887 6188
E-mail: cbeech@ppf.or.za