Exploring qualitative approaches to evaluation : multiple perspectives of the influence of integrated conservation/development projects ; final technical report for 2007 IDRC evaluation research award

The fieldwork for this PhD Dissertation (2007) comprised evaluation of agroforestry projects aimed at conserving biodiversity and ecosystems and improving rural socio-economic conditions. This report summarizes challenges and preliminary findings from the project, including: Influence of agroforestry projects on poverty alleviation and ecosystem health; Review of current evaluation mechanisms and project reports; and, Comparison of qualitative assessment with current evaluation mechanisms. Activities were conducted in three main research sites: 1) Nueva Guinea, Case Study #1 (southeast region of Nicaragua); 2) San Juan del Rio Coco, Case Study #2 (northern mountainous region); and 3) Matagalpa, Case Study #3 (central/north region)