PERCEPTION OF THE INHABITANTS OF THE SANTIAGUILLO BASIN: NATURAL RESOURCES AND LIVELIHOODS.

Abstract

Objective: To learn about the state of the natural resources and the productive systems in the Santiaguillo basin from the viewpoint of the inhabitants.

Methodology: It was approached from a qualitative approach, by means of a focus group.

Results: The problems perceived are related to: access to water both due to its low availability and due to the inequity in its distribution that generates low productivity and conflicts over the use of this resource; low prices for agricultural products, conflicts arising from the use of wildlife, and the degradation of rangelands as a result of overgrazing.

Limitations of the study: The Mennonite group, which is an important actor within the basin, was not represented in the focus group.

Conclusions: The participants in the group perceive the basin´s problem problem of the basin in an integrated manner , linking natural, economic, social and political resources components, which leads them to actions adapted to their context to solve these problem.

Keywords: Socio-environmental conflicts, perception, focus group, ecosystem degradation, endorheic basin.