How are we Working Together? A Framework to Assess Collaborative Arrangements in Nature-based Tourism

Abstract

‘Working together’ is increasingly advanced as a logical strategy to pursue nature-based tourism because it embraces multiple benefit claims to the natural environment. This paper examines terminology within the collaborative rubric (partnerships, collaboration and co-management) and develops an assessment framework consisting of five elements. Together the elements enhance conceptual precision and direct attention to aspects requiring careful consideration by those pursuing such innovative approaches. The proposed assessment framework is subsequently applied to a tourism initiative in the lower portion of the St John River in New Brunswick to illustrate the potential utility of the framework. Systematic application of the framework confirms that considerable specificity is possible when addressing nature-based tourism initiatives. Closing reflections highlight benefits of this discernment, the functionality of the framework and potential implications for nature-based tourism programmes and policies.

Keywords:

• partnerships
• collaboration
• co-management
• assessment framework in tourism
• nature-based tourism