Unidade de Conservação e comunidade local: uma relação em construção

Faced with intensifying degradation of natural ecosystems and the resulting social, environmental, and cultural consequences, the creation and maintenance of protected areas has become an important long-term strategy for the protection of biodiversity. The participation of society in the management of these areas is considered a fundamental premise for the success of these areas. In this context, this study analyzes the direction of Contendas do Sincorá National Forest, in an effort to understand the historical, social, political, and legal processes regarding the creation and management of this protected area. Ultimately, this study aims at contributing to the promotion of thoughts about this new view on the relationship between protected areas and local communities. Documental analysis and interviews revealed that this protected area was created by a presidential decree, which initially did not involve participation of the community. However, with the creation of its advisory council in 2005 and the development of a management plan, approved in 2006, dialogue with local communities began. Thus, it was possible to identify progress with regard to community empowerment and, consequently, the sustainable use of natural resources surrounding the Brazilian National Forest (FLONA)