Live Poster Session:
Thursday, July 29th 1:15-2:30pm EDT
Video:
Abstract: Aquatic invasive species not only pose a threat to the natural balance of ecosystems, but also impede recreational activities, and result in economic damage to individuals, towns, and states. Several studies have previously explored the impact aquatic invasive species can have on the natural environment; however, establishing perception differences between lake managers and general key waterbody users has yet to be found. To understand the perception held by lake managers, 50+ semi-structured interviews were held on zoom with various lake managers throughout the state of New Hampshire. The interviews were later transcribed and coded by two members of the research team, one with extensive knowledge of aquatic invasive species and one with very little knowledge. The coding of the interviews was used to clearly establish the managers’ perceptions. To establish the general waterbody users’ perception, surveys were randomly distributed at restaurants and beaches at one large, one medium, and one small lake throughout New Hampshire. The survey results were then collected, analyzed, and contrasted with the findings from the semi-structured interviews. Understanding the differences in perception that exist among conservation managers and key users of a shared natural resource will help to influence how existing gaps of perception between conservation managers and the general public can be bridged in future environmental management efforts.