Abstract:
The focus of this research is: How the Hulu Sungai Tengah regency manages and maintains natural resources and the environment in Meratus Mountain Protected Forest?.This research topic is very important to be implemented because it can provide a real picture, that damage to natural resources, especially forests, can be prevented or rejected. The obtained result from this study is the role of leadership is very influential in natural resource and environmental management activities which include: 1) The Regent of Hulu Sungai Tengah regency as a formal leader is able to act as “The Guardian of the Forest” because he has concern and his ability to mobilize the community to love the environment, especially the forest, 2) as a leader able to move the millennial generation and change their mindset about the view of the importance of the existence of forests as a source of life, 3) as a leader able to be an inspiration for the leaders below to love the environment more, 4) provide exemplary examples in managing and protect the environment, 5) strive together with various community groups to make the forest’s valuable asset must be respected and maintained its authenticity. The results of this study are very important to become learning materials and examples for other areas, the environment can be protected from damaged by actions of irresponsible people, to protect the environment requires commitment, care, togetherness, synergy and strong efforts from the role of local leadership both formal and non-formal.
