Understanding Climate Change Perceptions, Attitudes, and Needs of Forest Service Resource Managers

Abstract

Surveys were collected to assess Forest Service (FS) resource managers' perceptions, attitudes, and informational needs related to climate change and its potential impacts on forests and grasslands. Resource managers with three background types were surveyed. All participants generally considered themselves to be well-informed on climate change issues, although each resource manager group had different perceptions of climate change effects on natural resources. They shared similar views on the most potentially useful sources of information and that there was less concern at the Ranger District level about climate change. Administrative issues, including funding, were viewed by all participants as serious obstacles inhibiting agency action. Results of these surveys should provide insight for increasing science delivery efforts, providing educational opportunities, and developing guidance and training for FS resource managers. As a result, the agency can continue to provide science-based tools which assist in conserving and maintaining healthy, resilient ecosystems.

Citation

Rodriguez-Franco, Carlos; Haan, Tara J. 2015. Understanding Climate Change Perceptions, Attitudes, and Needs of Forest Service Resource Managers. Journal of Sustainable Forestry: 1-22.