Knowledge Mobilization in the Beaver Hills Biosphere, Alberta, Canada

Clara-Jane Blye, Elizabeth A. Halpenny, Glen T. Hvenegaard and Dee Patriquin
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Clara-Jane Blye: Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H9, Canada
Elizabeth A. Halpenny: Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H9, Canada
Glen T. Hvenegaard: Department of Science, Augustana Campus, University of Alberta, Camrose, AB T4V2R3, Canada
Dee Patriquin: Augustana Faculty, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T4V 2R3, Canada

Land, 2020, vol. 9, issue 11, 1-23

Abstract: This study explores how knowledge was and is mobilized to advance the objectives of the Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve, located in Alberta, Canada. Established in 2016, a 12-year collaborative effort worked to establish the biosphere reserve and achieve formal UNESCO designation. Subsequent efforts to grow the newly established biosphere reserve have accelerated in recent years. Our study documented how different types of knowledge were accessed, created, curated, and shared between partners during these two time periods. Focus group interviews were conducted with 14 participants, who are affiliated with Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve partner organizations, and revealed the following findings: (1) not all knowledge is equally valued or understood; (2) partnerships are highly valued, and were essential to successful knowledge mobilization, but were stronger among individuals rather than organizations; (3) fear of the loss of autonomy and potential complications due to the establishment of a biosphere reserve slowed the exchange of information and engagement by some regional actors; and (4) knowledge mobilization is and was impeded by staff and agency capacity, finances, and time scarcity. This was further complicated by entrenched norms of practice, existing successful working relationships impeding the development of new partnerships, and embracing alternative forms of knowledge.

Keywords: knowledge mobilization; social science; natural science; local knowledge; traditional knowledge; indigenous knowledge; parks and protected areas management; biosphere reserve (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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