Who has influence? The role of trust and communication in the conservation of flatback turtles in Western Australia

Conservation programs are traditionally built on an understanding of the ecology and biology of the animal and plant species they aim to protect. They also frequently rely on the engagement of stakeholders to positively influence program outcomes. Trust and clear communication between the managers, decision-makers, and the different stakeholders is considered key to program success. Here we describe the relationships between influence, trust, and communication within a large-scale collaborative marine turtle (Natator depressus) conservation program in Western Australia. Based on interview data, we find that trust vested in individuals (rather than in their role) across the network of people is essential. Trusted individuals have a greater perceived ability to influence turtle conservation program outcomes. High levels of trust and frequent meaningful communication go together. Communication is critical in working across the large remote region in Western Australia and in nurturing connections to Indigenous groups and industry. Nevertheless, individuals who were less trusted by others in the networks can also exert influence through the formal role they have in the program, or wield personal influence, and thus be integral in planning and goal setting to achieve program goals. Our results also show that in the case of flatback turtles, Indigenous groups have significantly more personal influence on program goals and success than any other stakeholder groups. Our study shows that investing in building relationships and trust between a network of stakeholders is an integral and essential part of reaching goals and achieving outcomes in marine conservation programs. Direct communication has a positive impact and helps build these trusted relationships. For conservation managers, developing trusted relationships with stakeholders should stand alongside developing ecologically sustainable pathways to species conservation. The greatest chance of improving future conservation outcomes is when trusted stakeholder relationships and ecological solutions are considered together.