Networks and governance in the regionalization of rural tourism in the Serra Gaúcha, Brazil

Abstract

The main goal of this research was to analyze the network of the Intermunicipal Consortium of Sustainable Development of the Serra Gaúcha (CISGA), Serra Nordeste Tourism Association (ATUASERRA) and the Intermunicipal Consortium for Sustainable Development of the Region of Campos de Cima da Serra (CONDESUS) in the regionalization of rural tourism in the Serra Gaúcha region. Methodologically, a model of analysis that uses the structure of the geographic network in its organizational, temporal and spatial dimensions was applied. Among the investigation procedures, qualitative techniques were used, involving bibliographical, documentary, direct observation and semistructured interviews. Analyzing the purpose and function of the networks created by CISGA, ATUASERRA and CONDESUS it was possible to verify that the networks are not conflicting, but are still little articulated. The characterization of the dimensions of the CISGA network in comparison to ATUASERRA presents a reduced performance in the tourism field, while CONDESUS has important work in 8 municipalities in the Region of Campos de Cima da Serra. It is concluded that the network created by ATUASERRA, CISGA and CONDESUS identifies the regional governance as an important instance of mediation between the public and the private powers and reinforces networking and shared management as essential elements in the regional development of the rural tourism.