Participatory research has emerged as an approach to producing knowledge that is grounded in local needs and realities to support community-based natural resource management (CBNRM), and it is often touted as crucial to the sustainable management of forests and other natural resources. This book analyses the participatory research in CBNRM. 'This text presents models of research sorely needed in the literature and for work in communities.' Kathleen Martin, assistant professor of ethnic studies, California Polytechnic State University 'Moving beyond a presentation of orthodoxy and idealized goals of participatory research, this book provides honest and critical accounts of efforts in the US to apply participatory research to natural resource management. The case studies and synthesis chapters provide invaluable lessons to aid better understanding of the complexities and challenges involved in this very important approach to research and resource management.' Jill M. Belsky, professor, Dept of Society and Conservation and director, Bolle Center for People and Forests, University of Montana