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Remediation to Restoration to Revitalization - Adaptive Learning in AOCs
Citation:
Williams, K. AND J. Hoffman. Remediation to Restoration to Revitalization - Adaptive Learning in AOCs. St. Louis River Summit, Superior, WI, March 13 - 14, 2018.
Impact/Purpose:
The purpose of this abstract is to present an educational approach to learning about the perceptions of Revitalization in Remediation to Restoration to revitalization (R2R2R).
Description:
The ability to recognize and articulate the value of ecosystem services is, at least in part, a function of the connection between an Area of Concern (aquatic environment) and the adjacent community (society). Ongoing contaminated sediment remediation and habitat restoration in Great Lakes Areas of Concerns (AOCs) is guided by goals that are defined by the status of Beneficial Use Impairments (BUI), which conceptually are analogous to ecosystem services (i.e., benefits from nature). To better realize the benefits of sediment remediation and habitat restoration, we need to determine which ecosystem services are affected. However, the nature of the aquatic-based AOC program sometimes discourages the consideration of the community benefits of AOC remediation and restoration work which might be outside the scope agency missions. Recognizing this challenge, we initiated a structured conversation based on experiential learning principles at the US EPA’s Annual AOC meeting in 2016 with community members and advisers who are committed to the AOC program. Participants discussed the AOC program in relation to both water quality and community resource use. Participants were asked a series of questions about a variety of ecosystem services, including recreational use (e.g., kayaking and trails). As a result of the session, AOC professionals and volunteers are more aware of the important social indicators of the health and value of these resources. We heard from participants that local leadership and planning is the most significant factor affecting changes on land. We conclude that to enhance public benefits from AOC projects, it is important to discuss these waterways from different perspectives both in terms of water quality targets and as a valued resource from which people benefit.