摘要：Based on interviews with 37 leaders of campesino communities along rural roads in the department of
Pando, Bolivia (Bolivian Amazon), we looked at the potential socioeconomic influence of road
improvements in development. Results show an average population growth of 12% (± 3.0%) between the
years 2002-2007 in these communities, where livelihoods depend directly on natural resources. The
economic system is based on agriculture and the extraction of non-timber forest products, especially the
Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa). Other activities that show important growth trends are timber extraction
and cattle ranching, both currently important causes of deforestation in the region. We prioritize a
qualitative analysis of perspectives about the future. The community perception of road paving is
primarily positive as they perceive that the project will solve their largest problems. We conclude by
recognizing the importance of including rural perspectives when planning infrastructural development
projects.
