Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2016ME320B

Mining in Maine: Exploring Public Perceptions

Institute: Maine
Year Established: 2016 Start Date: 2016-03-01 End Date: 2017-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $15,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $37,583

Principal Investigators: Sandra De Urioste-Stone, Amanda Olsen, Jean MacRae

Project Summary: Maine has a legacy of mining massive sulfide deposits for metals including copper and zinc. Understanding resident perceptions about mining, and potential impacts on the economy, quality of place, and natural resources in Maine is crucial as the legislature considers changes to the laws governing mining activities. We propose to identify perceptions on mining laws in Maine by using both qualitative and quantitative research. Phase 1 will include an analysis of secondary data (testimony, workshops and hearing). In Phase 2 we will conduct a resident survey to measure attitudes and beliefs towards mining in Maine.