ECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT EDUCATION FOR PUBLIC LANDS

Abstract

An ecosystem management education program targeted at specific audiences was designed for Eglin Air Force Base in northwest Florida. The program was developed through a comprehensive, adaptive model, which incorporated data from baseline surveys and input from natural resource managers and key stakeholders. The educational program resulted in significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes among important constituencies (recreational users and neighboring citizens) of this large, multipleuse, public land holding. The targeted ecosystem education program at Eglin included 1,128 treatment and 1,127 control subjects in a randomized experimental design. Evaluative (post-treatment) surveys revealed that both direct and mass educational approaches were effective in increasing knowledge, and that mass media contributed most to shifts in attitudes. We include recommendations to improve knowledge and change attitudes about ecosystem management, identify and target key audiences, and monitor long-term program outcomes.