About the Project

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) encompasses an area of the Apalachicola River, Apalachicola Bay, and surrounding lands that is immensely diverse in terms of both natural and cultural resources. Through the integration of archaeological site monitoring, predictive modeling, and community engagement in and around the ANERR, this project characterized ecosystem services that people, past and present, use and value in the Apalachicola system. The project’s findings provide a more representative interpretation of local cultural resources; inform decision-making for both cultural and environmental resources impacted by climate and human pressures; and guide future research into impacts and issues these resources may be facing.

About the Resource

This report summarizes the methods and findings of a qualitative assessment of the ways local people value ecosystem services provided by the Apalachicola NERR. Using focus group-style community conversations and an online survey, this qualitative assessment demonstrates that cultural identity, fostering community well-being, and preserving ecological integrity are deeply intertwined goals.