Investigation about the impact of tourism development on a water conservation area in Taiwan

Abstract

The current state of tourism development in a water conservation area of Taiwan was investigated from the perspective of different stakeholders. An analytical framework was constructed using grounded theory, whereas data collection was performed through field observations, questionnaire surveys, and semi-structured interviews. The 1290 questionnaire responses were analyzed via statistical methods and multi-perspective analysis. Stakeholder responses varied owing to differences in their interests, needs, and perception of the overall state of development. In the absence of clear policies and plans for each village around the water conservation area, the opinions of the stakeholders will diverge regarding labor and technical expertise, product features, village cohesion, the release of flora and fauna into the wild, tourism image, ecological damage, village transportation, and service quality.