Why stay by the sea?: Rising tides, public perception, and coastal connection in Falmouth, Massachusetts

Knowing how citizens relate to the coastal zone is as an important element of coastal governance today. Previous research has identified several indicators to investigate connections between coastal communities and marine... [ view full abstract ]

Knowing how citizens relate to the coastal zone is as an important element of coastal governance today. Previous research has identified several indicators to investigate connections between coastal communities and marine environments, but do those data reflect the perceptions of the people who live there? A growing body of literature identifies an important role for the integration of public perceptions into coastal decision-making processes. Here, a survey conducted in Falmouth, Massachusetts investigates how town residents perceive connections to the ocean. Results point to strong sensory and place-based attachments to the marine environment and a variety of social values tied to the coast. Analysis provides recommendations on how public perceptions data can be used by science communicators and policymakers in Falmouth and beyond, and offers relational values as a tool to frame connections in broader public discourse. Finally, discussion suggests that public perceptions could provide a foundation to engage coastal citizens in coastal policy development, and help planners understand these connections across spatial parameters in the future.