Evaluation of biodiversity projects

The guidelines cover four kinds of projects that A.I.D. might be expected to evaluate: ecosystems and habitats, species, habitat classification and inventory, and genetic resources. For each kind of project, four categories of evaluation criteria are offered: biological, social and economic, institutional capability, and linkage. The guidelines are primarily in the form of checklist questions, with questions in each category preceded by general guidance. The report also stresses the importance of linkages -- to other local and national programs and to international organizations -- in the evaluation process. While not including education and training as a specific category, the report stresses their importance and recommends support for education and training projects. Appendixes list sources of further guidance in project evaluation. (Author abstract, modified)