Public attitudes towards the restoration and management of Lake Vela (Central Portugal)

Abstract

Lake Vela local inhabitants' and visitors' environmental attitudes and opinions about ecological conditions of the area and future management strategies to be implemented were investigated. The facilities required and the proposal to promote tourism activities, to enhance economic development, have revealed public illiteracy about ecosystems functioning and carrying capacity. This lack of scientific knowledge was recognized by a great percentage of individuals (61%, n=175), who mentioned environmental education programs as one of the main activities to be developed in the area. To spend some hours in a calm and healthy environment (67.6%, n=194), to share some moments with friends (58.2%, n=167), picnics (49.5, n=49.5%), and wildlife observation (46.7%, n=134) were the main motives cited by respondents to visit Lake Vela. These activities do not need to be restricted in the management of the area, but only directed for specific areas and carefully monitored, since they are passive activities that yield few significant impacts. The study also proposed some social benefits that could be integrated in the management of the area, in order to increase the quality of visitors' experiences and, hence, to get public compliance and involvement in the preservation of that natural resources.