ABSTRACT
Around the biologically and culturally rich Kure Mountains National Park in Turkey are some 20,000–30,000 inhabitants, many of whom live on a per capita income of around 400 euros a year. The first question local inhabitants pose to park staff is: how will the protected area reduce poverty, contribute to rural development and stop outward migration? Responding to this question would be a tall order for anyone, not least in an underfunded protected area with a primary goal of biodiversity conservation. Yet the park authorities must respond and manage the resources of the protected area with the well-being of the local population in mind. And this is perfectly possible. Among many other real and potential benefits, the national park protects the region’s main source of water, harbours major genetic materials and provides attractions for a growing number of international tourists.
