Toward an interagency toolbox for diversity, equity, and inclusion in wilderness: Findings from five focus group discussions with wilderness professionals

Abstract

US federal land management agencies serve the American people and work to ensure that all Americans connect with and value wilderness. As a result, wilderness managers may prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), though may lack wilderness-specific tools and resources to foster commitments to DEI. As agencies and organizations turn to virtual resources to share information - what we refer to as toolboxes - questions remain about their utility and potential to impact DEI outcomes in wilderness. This article describes the process and results of five virtual focus group discussions with wilderness managers and key partners aimed at better understanding DEI toolbox-related needs, as well as the limitations of a DEI toolbox and opportunities to maximize potential impact of any DEI-related efforts. Key findings highlight that an interagency DEI toolbox for wilderness management could collate resources and lessons learned from innovation happening across the National Wilderness Preservation System. Yet wilderness-specific DEI goals are currently ambiguous and would benefit from clear articulation to track the impact of efforts. Participants emphasized needing leadership support and funds to advance innovation and partnerships with diverse organizations. Findings also highlight challenges associated with recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, and navigating a wilderness culture that some participants feel has sidelined diverse connections with and stewardship of wilderness. A DEI toolbox could benefit practitioners - but could be most impactful if considered as complementary to other federal initiatives seeking to diversify workforces, fund innovation, and grow partnership with organizations representing underserved communities.

Citation

Redmore, Lauren; Fox-Middleton, Kim; Crum, Keren-Happuch; Gregory, Margaret; Motahari, Cassidy; Powers, Mary; Armendariz, Ruby Sainz; Santos, Amanda Grace; von Haupt, Lea Schram. 2023. Toward an interagency toolbox for diversity, equity, and inclusion in wilderness: Findings from five focus group discussions with wilderness professionals. International Journal of Wilderness. 29(2): 82-102.