Graduate Project
 

Between Wild and Cultivated Places: Natural Resource Planning on a Small Farm in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

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https://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/concern/graduate_projects/6t053q09w

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  • To meet the challenges of climate change and make progress on lagging large-scale sustainability and watershed goals requires an integrated social-ecological approach to natural resource planning on the ground-level. This case study of a small equestrian farm in the Chesapeake Bay watershed incorporates theory with practice, by adding interviews focused on “sense of place”, and a watershed perspective, to the standard conservation planning protocols used by the United States Natural Resource Conservation Service. Assessment results showed that, despite a long history of land modification, the pastures, wetland and soils are generally in functioning condition and there is some diversity of native vegetation and wildlife habitat present on the farm. However, non-native invasive vegetation and stormwater are consistent stressors on the riparian area, geomorphology and water quality of the stream. Recommended best management practices and a site plan offer possible management alternatives to address stressors and improve ecosystem function, wildlife habitat, aesthetics and landowner enjoyment on the property. In conclusion, I reflect on the implementation of sense of place theory in the planning process and the skills needed by natural resource planners to integrate the social and ecological systems of a particular site.
  • A Bit Better Farm is located on the traditional unceded land of the Piscataway people or Kinwaw Paskestikweya "The people who live on the long river with a bend in it" (Piscataway Tribe 2021). I pay respect to the Piscataway and other peoples who have and continue to care for this land we call home.
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