For many of us, place is an important part of who we are. This research examines the significance that a sense of place can have on our lives. To date, most of the research on this subject examines how individuals experience place. This research expands on the current literature surrounding a sense of place by examining how groups define, create, and capitalize on a sense of place.
Using the qualitative research methods of content analysis and in-depth interviews, this research presents a case study analysis of how a particular nonprofit organization active in the state of Ohio creates and capitalizes on a person’s sense of place in order to achieve its mission. In discussing the campaigns and techniques currently being used by the Buckeye Forest Council, this research examines how a specific organization has attempted to both construct and capitalize on a sense of place in order to protect public lands.
Of the strategies and techniques used by the Buckeye Forest Council, several emerged as particularly effective; including the group’s quarterly newsletter, Martha’s Journal, their Timber Monitoring Program, and the annual Buckeye Gathering. Together this publication, program, and activity along with other techniques have both created and capitalized on people’s sense of place. However, future research into how groups experience and utilize a sense of place needs to examine issues related to the access and equity of power relationships involved in resource decision-making, the use of networks and politics of scale, as well as how a group’s culture can affect their ability to effectively utilize a sense of place. As more of us find ourselves having to work together in public decision-making and as more of our public lands become at risk, the need for continued research into how groups create and capitalize on a sense of place is imperative.