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Statistical matching for conservation science.

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Abstract

The awareness of the need for robust impact evaluations in conservation is growing and statistical matching techniques are increasingly being used to assess the impacts of conservation interventions. Used appropriately matching approaches are powerful tools, but they also pose potential pitfalls. We outlined important considerations and best practice when using matching in conservation science. We identified 3 steps in a matching analysis. First, develop a clear theory of change to inform selection of treatment and controls and that accounts for real-world complexities and potential spillover effects. Second, select the appropriate covariates and matching approach. Third, assess the quality of the matching by carrying out a series of checks. The second and third steps can be repeated and should be finalized before outcomes are explored. Future conservation impact evaluations could be improved by increased planning of evaluations alongside the intervention, better integration of qualitative methods, considering spillover effects at larger spatial scales, and more publication of preanalysis plans. Implementing these improvements will require more serious engagement of conservation scientists, practitioners, and funders to mainstream robust impact evaluations into conservation. We hope this article will improve the quality of evaluations and help direct future research to continue to improve the approaches on offer.

Description

Keywords

autocorrelación espacial, causal inference, consecuencias indirectas, conservation effectiveness, counterfactual, efectividad de la conservación, evaluación de impacto, hipótesis de contraste, impact evaluation, inferencia causal, spatial autocorrelation, spillover, 保护有效性, 反事实, 因果推论, 效果评估, 溢出效应, 空间自相关, Conservation of Natural Resources

Journal Title

Conserv Biol

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

0888-8892
1523-1739

Volume Title

34

Publisher

Wiley
Sponsorship
European Commission Horizon 2020 (H2020) Marie Sk?odowska-Curie actions (676108)