An Approach to Engaging Underserved Communities in Conservation Action
Research Location:
San Francisco, California, USA
Conservation Partner:
River Otter Ecology Project
Student Researcher
Will Florentino ’24, Major: Conservation, Major: Environmental Science.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Alli SaboProject Description
Many underserved communities do not feel connected to conservation planning, goals, or outcomes. Community members often have knowledge and understanding of what’s needed but are not included in planning. Lack of inclusion reduces the effectiveness of conservation outcomes in the communities most in need.
Will worked alongside the River Otter Ecology Project and local communities in Marin County, CA to develop a roadmap for engaging communities in conservation action in partnership with ROEP or other small nonprofits. A roadmap aims to help small nonprofits leverage their resources and expertise in service to underserved neighborhoods will support the following goals: (1) Engaging community leaders, including cultural, political, governmental, and educational ‚ (2) Engaging the community ‚ (3) Eliciting community needs and conservation goals ‚ (4) Engaging appropriate and effective partners ‚ (5) Bridging cultural and economic barriers to participation ‚ (6) Planning and carrying out conservation activities based on community needs and goals ‚(7) Evaluating the program‚ and (8) Scaling up Plan should be based partly on academic research and partly on local case studies (if possible).
