How do Local People Value Rural Waterways? A Study in the Upper Catchments of South East Queensland’s Rivers |
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| Authors: | Katherine Witt Helen Ross Sylvie Shaw Natalie Jones David Rissik Breanna Pinner |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia;2. School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia;3. School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia;4. National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia |
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| Abstract: | In Integrated Catchment (or Watershed) Management, the impacts of upstream conditions and actions on downstream environments and people is a key issue. Knowing upstream people’s values towards waterways is, therefore, important for community engagement and the development of publicly acceptable management approaches. This qualitative study applies Kellert’s framework of relational values to explore the types and diversity of people’s values towards the upper catchments of South East Queensland, Australia, and tests the “universality” of Kellert’s framework. We found the full range of values identified by Kellert with some variations and elaborations in content. People living, working, and enjoying recreation in the upper catchments have affection for their local waterways and a moral inclination to protect them. This extends our understanding of how people value these waterways, which is more often depicted in terms of utilitarian and economic value. The findings provide managers with new opportunities for engaging with local communities and waterway users. |
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| Keywords: | Catchment management environment Kellert relational riparian rivers rural streams values watershed |
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