Multi-Level Modeling To Understand Complex Human-Environment-Policy Dynamics in Fanjingshan, China

In considering human-natural systems, incorporation of multi-level analysis of hierarchical relationships is vital for a more integrated understanding of complex processes. This study focuses on the human-nature dynamics of Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve (FNNR) in China, a biodiversity hotspot and the only habitat for the Guizhou golden monkey. One of only 5 species of snub-nosed monkey in the world, the Guizhou golden monkey is increasingly threatened by growing human activity and development within and around FNNR, which was established in 1978 for the monkey's protection. In addition to development, reforestation policies are rapidly changing forest use and composition, and thus the lives of local residents who extract forest resources. Using multi-level modeling, the results of a Spring 2010 survey were analyzed to determine the impacts of reforestation policies upon local livelihoods and resource use. Comprising data from 268 households in 3 villages, the survey focused on demographics, Grain-to-Green reforestation program participation, land use, livelihood, and conservation perception. The multi-level model analysis addresses statistical connections among the data at three levels: household, group, and village. This investigation presents the usefulness of multi-level modeling in elucidating the intricacies of human-nature systems towards an understanding of policy implications for addressing development, and conservation challenges.