Assessing the carrying capacity of the emerging Ecotourism destination in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija
Date
2023
Authors
Joyce B. Bacoy
John Carlos L. Pallarca
Glydel Faith A. Pitos
Elaine Tiburcio
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Abstract
Appropriate carrying capacity could regulate the number of visitors to a particular ecotourism destination so that it does not negatively impact the environment and improves both the level of visitor satisfaction and the sociocultural norms of the local community. Once under control, the ecotourism destination will be conserved and sustainable. Thus, this research assessed the carrying capacity of emerging ecotourism destinations in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija: Farm Ridge by Desmond Farm, Lake Farm de la Marre and Montana del Sol. Utilizing Boullon's Carrying Capacity Mathematical Model (BCCMM), findings revealed the optimal visitor limits for each destination: Farm Ridge by Desmond Farm's sustainable practices have shown its carrying capacity of a 120-visitor restriction, whereas the BCCMM proposes 109. Lake Farm de la Marre allows 120 people on weekdays and more on weekends, while the BCCMM suggests 431. Montana del Sol had 200 peak-season tourists, while BCCMM computed 215 daily visitors. this information can help stakeholders prioritize sustainable practices, tourist enjoyment and natural resource protection.