INTEGRATING DISASTER MITIGATION AND ECOTOURISM: A MODEL OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TURTLE CONSERVATION IN NAGARI AMPIANG PARAK

This research aims to develop a disaster mitigation-based ecotourism model in Nagari Ampiang Parak, integrating

ecotourism management, turtle conservation, and local entrepreneurship with disaster mitigation strategies. The research

addresses the need to simultaneously enhance community resilience and economic stability in disaster-prone coastal regions.

A mixed - methods approach combined ethnographic qualitative studies with quantitative data collection through structured

questionnaires. Qualitative methods included in-depth interviews with community leaders, ecotourism stakeholders, and

residents, while quantitative data focused on disaster awareness, economic benefits, and conservation participation. The

research spanned one year, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of community practices and outcomes. This research

develops a disaster mitigation-based ecotourism model in Nagari Ampiang Parak by integrating turtle conservation, local

entrepreneurship, and environmental management. The findings show that 57% of respondents are aware of disaster risks, and

53% participate in preparedness activities. Ecotourism and conservation involve 53%-57% of the community, with mangrove

planting and turtle protection as key strategies. Economically, 50%-55% of respondents feel ecotourism increases income,

new businesses, and job opportunities. Turtle conservation is also seen to protect biodiversity (65%) and contribute to disaster

mitigation (63%). This model strengthens community resilience by combining environmental sustainability with local

economic empowerment in disaster-prone areas. The research also shows that community empowerment through leadership

roles, social cohesion, and active participation in conservation strengthens resilience and sustainability. Envir onmental efforts

such as mangrove planting and turtle protection offer dual benefits for ecosystems and disaster reduction while increasing

public awareness, strengthening local capacity, and supporting environmental education programs. The research conclu des

that the proposed ecotourism model boosts community resilience by balancing economic growth with environmental

conservation. This integrated approach reduces disaster vulnerability and fosters sustainable livelihoods through innovative

and entrepreneurial practices. The findings highlight the potential of this model to serve as a blueprint for other coastal

regions facing similar challenges.