PENGEMBANGAN EKOWISATA BERBASIS MASYARAKAT DI KOTA TOMOHON

Abstract

Tomohon has currently become the backbone supporting economic growth in North Sulawesi. The leading sector that serves as the key driver is ecotourism, which is rapidly growing due to its ability to integrate environmental conservation efforts with the increasing participation of local communities. This research aims to identify and map the potential of tourist destinations in Tomohon City, explore opportunities for developing them as community-based ecotourism areas, and analyze strategies for more effective development. The approach employed in this study is descriptive-analytical, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques. The sampling methods used include Purposive Sampling to determine respondents from the category of government officials, Proportional Stratified Sampling for the general public in both North Tomohon and South Tomohon Districts, as well as Accidental Sampling for tourists visiting the tourism sites. The findings indicate that the success of ecotourism development is determined by threemain factors: active participation of local communities in managing and preserving the destinations, policy support and guidance from the local government, and the unique natural and cultural potential possessed by the Tomohon area. The analysis of recommended development strategies includes continuous training and education for communities in environmentally based tourism management, strengthening local institutions and tourism awareness groups, and sustainable utilization of local resources in developing tourism products and creative economy initiatives. With consistent implementation of these strategies, ecotourism in Tomohon is expected to grow into a model of inclusive, sustainable, and community-based tourism, aligned with the goals of sustainable development and the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045.

Keywords: Ecotourism; Community Empowerment; Environmental Conservation; Development Strategy; Sustainable Tourism