Awareness of Conservation Issues among Visitors to Three South African Nature Reserves

Abstract

The awareness of conservation issues among visitors to three South African nature reserves, and the enhancement thereof as a result of their visit, were tested using a longitudinal survey design. Interpretive facilities in each of the reserves were well utilized, though limited in scope and availability. Although a statistically significant increase in awarenesss of conservation issues was recorded in all three reserves, the levels of awareness were very low—particularly as the nature reserves tend to attract a privileged, well-educated sector of the South African population. The results were corroborated using a cross-sectional survey design.