Distribution, characteristics and models of community roles in the utilization and preservation of environmental services in the Simarjarunjung nature tourism area, North Sumatra Province

Abstract

Indonesia, especially in North Sumatra Province, has many tourist destinations that take advantage of its uniqueness, exotica and natural beauty. Some of these destinations are managed or at least involve the community in their management, such as the Simarjarunjung Nature Tourism Area, Dolok Pardamean District, Simalungun Regency. This study aims to identify the distribution and characteristics of natural tourism objects, examine the use of environmental services and the role of the community in preserving environmental services in the Area. The results showed that in the Simarjarunjung Nature Tourism Area from the tracking and point paths there were 5 natural tourist locations, namely Pine Hills Nature Tourism, Dolok Sipigul, Panatapan Dolok Sidoorangin, Bukit Indah Simarjarunjung and BIS Annex. The potential for environmental services utilized in the Area consists of a cool micro climate, beautiful natural scenery, camping ground areas, outbound activity areas, educational attractions and photography spots with views of Lake Toba. The majority of the management of natural tourism areas is carried out by the community together by forming a forest farmer group (KTH). The role of the community is analysed using several role indicators, namely expectations about the role, norms, forms of behavior in roles, assessment and sanctions.