Using Photovisualizations to Gain Perspectives on River Conservation over Time

Meryl Braconnier, Cheryl E. Morse and Stephanie Hurley
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Meryl Braconnier: Independent Researcher, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
Cheryl E. Morse: Geography and Geosciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
Stephanie Hurley: Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA

Land, 2022, vol. 11, issue 4, 1-17

Abstract: The Missisquoi River originates in a densely forested, hilly, and lightly populated region in northern Vermont, USA, flowing north until it crosses the Canadian border. The upper American stretches of the river are federally designated as “Wild and Scenic” in recognition of its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. This paper reports on the place-based and river-focused perspectives of rural residents who live and work along the Missisquoi River and its tributaries and who are the recipients of Vermont’s shifting river management strategies. The mixed methods research drew on participant observation, interviews, and interpretations of photovisualizations (PVZs). The PVZ method identified the different geographical imaginaries held by residents and conservation professionals, demonstrating that PVZs can be used as a method to foster dialogue about sense of place and conservation initiatives. Visual aids can help unveil the complex, temporal relationships between landowners and the adjacent waterways, which in turn influence participation in river restoration efforts.

Keywords: landscape visualization; place-based perspectives; river conservation; qualitative research; conservation outreach techniques; stakeholders (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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