Urban and rural perceptions toward the reintrocution of wood bison in Alaska, USA

Silveira, Flavia Franchini (2024) Urban and rural perceptions toward the reintrocution of wood bison in Alaska, USA. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This study investigates public perceptions surrounding wood bison restoration in Alaska, differentiating responses by urban and rural settings and hunting participation. It establishes and compares baseline levels of social acceptability norms, trust in the wildlife agency, and perceived impacts (both risks and benefits) of the reintroduction. The study encompasses two major urban centers and four rural villages near the release site. Data collected through mail surveys and structured interviews are analyzed using t-tests and ANOVA, with reported effect sizes. Overall, the public holds positive views regarding bison and its management. Notably, rural participants display higher levels of trust, management support, and expectations of impacts. Conversely, urban hunters exhibit the lowest endorsement of proposed management actions. These findings underline the importance of tailored communication and education efforts to address variations in perceptions among distinct groups and ensure effective conservation strategies. The study also highlights potential opportunities and recommendations tied to the wood bison reintroduction initiative.

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