Date of Award
12-1999
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Geography
First Advisor
Dr. David S. Lemberg
Second Advisor
Dr. Steven E. Butt
Third Advisor
Dr. Rolland N. Fraser
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
This study investigates a complex location-planning problem that is often faced by managers of nature centers: how to select sites on which to position new habitat reserves. Mission statements of these establishments often indicate objectives of habitat preservation and public education. Inherent in land preservation is a limited amount of traffic through the area. In contrast, in order for visitors to fully experience an ecosystem, access to the site is required.
In order to address site selection problems at such institutions, the Educational Nature Reserve Model was developed. This model fits situations in which the conflicting goals of conservation and education must be considered when determining the best location for a new habitat. As a case study, the Kalamazoo Nature Center's main property in Kalamazoo County, Michigan was examined for the best location on which . to reconstruct a native tallgrass prairie. The Educational Nature Reserve Model proved beneficial in the site selection process at the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Many alternative solutions were quickly generated, allowing trade-offs of objectives among decision makers, greatly enhancing the organization's decision-making capacities.
Recommended Citation
Mau-Crimmins, Theresa M., "The Educational Nature Reserve Problem: Selecting a Prairie Reserve Location for the Kalamazoo Nature Center" (1999). Masters Theses. 4421.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4421