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Description:
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The goal of this inductive study was to identify factors that facilitate and inhibit binational collaboration in the recovery of endangered species in the northern Mexico borderlands , focusing on the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi ) . A conceptual model was developed using qualitative techniques , providing the basis for design of a mail survey . The target population included participants with experience in recovery efforts for over a dozen species at risk in the region . Long interviews were recorded with 44 participants from Mexico and the United States . Thematic hierarchical analysis was used to develop a conceptual model of how interviewees talked about factors influencing binational collaboration . Issues were classified in five thematic clusters : project , organization , people , resources , culture /history . The survey was used to conduct a needs assessment , measuring respondents' attitudes about the relative priority of issues identified in the conceptual model . High priority needs were identified from each thematic cluster : (a ) equitable participation in project design and implementation , (b ) continuity of personnel , (c ) coordination of federal , state and local efforts , (d ) increased funding , managed with accountability , and (e ) exchange visits to facilitate understanding of diverse perspectives . Responses to almost half the survey items indicated accord among the sample of respondents , providing a basis for shared common ground . The nature of discord was within the range of "manageable" , with no clear polarization of attitudes measured . This exploratory data analysis suggested that the structure of the conceptual model developed from the Mexican wolf case study was generally a valid basis for future deductive analysis and reflection by practitioners . For 82 % of 22 statements of need , priorities of participants in the Mexican wolf recovery efforts did not differ significantly from other respondents . Nationality (of respondents ) significantly affected priority rankings for only 18 % of the need statements . Significant effects of five demographic variables indicated that interactive effects should be examined in future multivariate analyses to determine how respondents' attitudes on issues related to priority rankings . Recommendations were provided for a more efficient and effective approach to collaborative problem -solving , engaging reflective practitioners from the private and public sectors in principled negotiation processes to better understand diverse perspectives . |