However, the use of the land as a Contract Park could open significant economic opportunities to the San and Mier through the development of tourism. Or, to guarantee income but avoid future use of the land being lost, it could be leased. Another possibility is the establishment of an upmarket tourist lodge. The San and Mier would be shareholders in the lodge and could play an increasingly significant role as capacity increases. Prestige hunting run by professional hunters would also generate income which could be used as capital to set up the upmarket tourism venue.
Negotiations are ongoing.
Thanks to The Green Trust funding, the parties involved have the technical support necessary to make informed decisions regarding their future. If the final agreement accommodates both the rights and interests of the communities and conservation needs, then this Contract Park could serve as a model for other potential WWF 'People and Parks' initiatives in the sub-continent. Christine Riley is a Press Officer with WWF-South Africa based in Stellenbosch. This story originally appeared on WWF's website .