LE3 .A278 2022

2022

Warner, Alan

Acadia University

Bachelor of Community Development

Honours

Environmental Sustainability Studies

Environmental & Sustainability Studies

This case study in the Town of Wolfville, Nova Scotia aimed to determine (a) the uses, functions, and meanings of greenspace in Wolfville as conveyed through people’s descriptions and narratives, (b) the environmental and socio-cultural factors that contribute to greenspace attachment in a rural, Canadian context, and (c) how the uses, functions and meanings of local greenspace can foster community resilience. Four participant groups from underrepresented populations (youth, university students, community members with physical or mental disabilities, and seniors) in Wolfville engaged in two focus groups and a cumulative final vision session. Each participant completed two tasks between focus groups: a photograph task and an audio-recording task for participant reflection and further research data. Local greenspace was found to: fulfill critical health and well-being needs; provide a key social space for the community; and encourage visitors to reflect on humanity’s relationship to nature. The meaning of local greenspace to participants varied depending on age and ability, largely due to social norms that impacted whether residents felt welcome or able to access greenspace. This study identified four main themes that lead to the formation of greenspace attachments. The findings suggest that the co-design of local greenspace could significantly increase social cohesion within the community and contribute to increased community resilience overall. This study provides five key recommendations for increasing community resilience in the Town of Wolfville.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3815