Assessing the Multidimensional Effectiveness of a National Desert Park in China from a Stakeholder Perspective

China launched the National Desert Park (NDP) initiative over a decade ago, making this an opportune time to assess its effectiveness. This paper examined one of the pilot parks, the Inner Mongolia Ongniud Bolongke NDP, as a case study. Questionnaire surveys were completed by 190 residents and visitors in 2023 to assess whether park designation and development were achieving the desired improvements in human well-being. Respondents also provided feedback on management status and their attitudes toward NDP policy. Responses confirmed that the park generally contributed to diverse benefits, with intangible and environmental benefits rated more highly than socio-economic benefits. However, there were disparities among residents; for example, villagers living the closest to the park perceived lower benefits from the park. While widespread negative impacts were not observed, residents did have some concerns about indirect consequences from visitors. Respondents were positive about the NDP’s future, but responses revealed problems with park management, including the insufficient implementation of requirements for NDP designation and the lack of stakeholder engagement. It is hoped that this study will help improve decision-making for NDPs and thereby further support effective dryland management.