Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Environmental Studies (MES)

Department

Geography & Environmental Studies

Program Name/Specialization

Environmental Resource Management

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Christopher Lemieux

Advisor Role

Primary Advisor

Abstract

Connectivity conservation is a means to enable the unimpeded movement of species and the flow of natural processes to sustain life. Understanding how connectivity conservation functions between parks and protected and conserved areas is a key component of addressing the global biodiversity crisis. The governance and associated policy environment of protected and conserved areas is often complex, and it is challenging for practitioners to understand how connectivity conservation practices can function. In this case study, protected and conserved areas practitioners working in the Chignecto Isthmus region of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada were interviewed assist in better understanding the successes and challenges of implementing connectivity conservation in a complex interprovincial conservation management environment. Using an organizational readiness framework to analyze implementation of connectivity conservation in the region by understanding the significance of place and time perspectives, community-empowered conditions, and how knowledge is used and shared, the effectiveness of connectivity conservation in the Chignecto Isthmus region was assessed for the successes and challenges that protected and conserved areas practitioners and those associated with connectivity in the region face. This study determined some of the key features of a functioning connectivity conservation system include knowledgeable and committed conservation staff, effective and impactful public outreach and education, and collaborative knowledge sharing among practitioners. Challenges in implementing connectivity conservation included limitation of funding for long-term management strategies and lack of explicit connectivity policy and legislation. This research may serve as a starting point for researchers to understand the diversity of actors and required collaboration that is involved in conservation policy and practices on lands both within and beyond protected areas limits.

Convocation Year

2024

Convocation Season

Spring

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