LE3 .A278 2010

2011

Colton, John

Acadia University

Master of Recreation Management

Masters

Recreation Management

Kinesiology

This thesis assesses the effect of historical events on Aboriginal ecotourism and community-based development in Haida Gwaii, Canada. The establishment of the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site in 1988 precipitated changes in how ecotourism is managed at the islands-wide and community levels. These changes placed the community in a greater position of power in managing and controlling development and effectively changed the relationship between Aboriginal ecotourism and community-based development. The community has used this new relationship to develop ecotourism products and services that reflect the spiritual, traditional, and cultural values of the people. The purpose of this study was to better understand the relationship between Aboriginal ecotourism and community-based development. Using a case study approach, qualitative data were gathered in the form of interviews, field journals, and participant observation. The results of the two month field visit indicate that the key components of the relationship are: (a) commitment to the community; (b) economic factors; (c) role of continuity; (d) stakeholder impact; and (e) the role of the Haida Heritage Centre and the Haida Gwaii Museum. The principle conclusions reflect the Haida’s approach to community development, the importance of art and language to ecotourism, and continuity as a driver of Haida culture. The use of the term “Aboriginal” in this thesis was based on its use in the current literature.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:179