The Social Acceptability of River Conservation Efforts in Vermont’s Upper Missisquoi Watershed
Braconnier, Meryl
Braconnier, Meryl
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Abstract
The river management practices advocated for by the State of Vermont have shifted considerably over the last 20 years, thus impacting the communities that border waterways (Kline & Cahoon, 2010). This research examines the social dimensions of river conservation efforts in Vermont’s Upper Missisquoi Watershed in an effort to increase understanding of the cultural factors surrounding environmentally-focused initiatives (Stanek & Lovell, 2019). The study area includes the towns of Lowell, Westfield, Troy, and N. Troy. Using mixed qualitative research methods, including participant observation, in-person interviews, and photovisualizations (PVZs) of landscape scenarios, this study uncovers the perceptions and attitudes of landowners and land users in these towns with regards to the waterways that run through their properties and shifting river management practices. The results will assist conservation organizations, like Vermont Land Trust, in their pursuit of community conservation; inform emerging recommendations for river and floodplain restoration in Vermont; and increase understanding on how PVZs can help communicate landscape changes. Kline, M., & Cahoon, B. (2010). Protecting River Corridors in Vermont1. JAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 46(2), 227-236. doi:10.1111/j.1752-1688.2010.00417.x Stanek, E. C., & Lovell, S. T. (2019). Building multifunctionality into agricultural conservation programs: lessons learned from designing agroforestry systems with central Illinois landowners. Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems, 1-9. doi:10.1017/S1742170518000601
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2020-01-01