Assessment of the vulnerability factors for the Bosco Pantano nature reserve (Policoro, Southern Italy): the SWOT-AHP dynamic approach

The Regional Oriented Reserve “Bosco Pantano”, in the Policoro territory, preserves the testimony of what was one of the most interesting lowland forest formations in Southern Italy, "a fossil" that survived to the uncontrolled land drainage and intensive agriculture occurred in the last century. Therefore, for several millennia, floodplain forests were indiscriminately exploited according to economical demands, even though the risks of biodiversity and habitat losses. The richness of species and ecosystems constitutes a major attribute of our planet, as well as an essential component of the stability of the Earth’ diverse environment. In this context, the aim of our work was to detect, on the basis of data collected through questionnaire, the most relevant factors that might impact on the ecosystem vulnerability of the reserve, either now or in the future, and thus undermine its survival. Once a brief overview of the historical, social and economic background, the hybrid method SWOT - AHP (A’WOT) was implemented. So, the implementation of such method, consisting of four analysis steps, allowed us to categorie the different SWOT factors. Our outcomes highlighted the stakeholders’ common interest in pointing to the unique traits of “Bosco Pantano” lowland forest, in order to ensure preservation and to protect biodiversity. Nevertheless, the findings revealed some critical points, i.e., the poor attention to the weaknesses factors, that may compromise the reserve’ survival. In addition, the results showed a general poor ability to appreciate and benefit from all the positive feedbacks, coming out of research and monitoring activities on the habitat. Hence, we were able to define measures and/or strategies geared to the preservation and valorization of the "Bosco Pantano" of Policoro. Specifically, the focus on multiple intervention lines could be encouranged, by exploiting the biotype’s peculiarity and uniqueness in order to promote the development of sustainable forms of tourism. It may also be advisable to implement projects aiming at the study of the the forest dynamics, as well as to institute control and monitoring organs. Lastly, we should also encourage all dissemination channels and tools in order to improve people’ s environmental awareness.