TThe prevalent experience and perception in Toledo is that conservation entails the locking away of the resources of an area from the people, so, the idea of biodiversity conservation for sustainable development is not readily comprehended. Moreover, adherence to traditional practices of milpa farming (involving clearance of tracts of forest for corn production) and hunting have caused biodiversity loss, soil erosion and the siltation of water sources. It also means that villagers tend to think that natural resources will always be available to provide for their varying needs. However, older villagers readily lament the days when game meat and other forest products were more available and, based on existing local knowledge about forest resources, their use and availability, these misconceptions have to be addressed. Information and demonstrations concerning biodiversity friendly income generation needs be provided. The importance of adjusting to new or adapted practices within the context of increasing privatization of land (and therefore limited access to resources) has also to be communicated.

Hence there is the need for a series of training and awareness activities directed at rangers, key individuals and community groups, such as schools and for culturally pertinent interpretative environmental materials. The objectives of this proposal are:
To consolidate the conservation management of GSCP to serve as a community conservation model.
To build capacity of protected areas and conservation personnel in Toledo.
To raise the level of environmental awareness among buffer communities and to build support for biodiversity conservation at the local level.
To develop networks and links with other community based and conservation projects within the Toledo region and beyond