Mapping bioregional place attachment in the Battle River Watershed

Abstract

The Make your Map project engaged volunteer participants to artistically identify special places in the Battle River watershed, and describe the values and experiences that make those locations significant. This research is based on theories of bioregionalism, place attachment, and personal and community mapmaking. Nine personal maps, and one collaborative map located more than 100 places of personal or community significance. Using map legends and written or verbal descriptions, 31 important place attachment values were identified and grouped into five themes (Nature and Sustainability, Recreation, Society and Culture, Self, and Relationships). These maps and their values provide tools that the Battle River Watershed Alliance and other organizations can use to engage community members as they experience their watershed, form place specific bonds, and build the capacity and desire to enhance the health of the bioregion.