Water Resources Research Act Program

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Details for Project ID PA_2024_Mainzer

A Collective Identity Approach to Addressing Water Quality in the Chesapeake Watershed Regions of Pennsylvania

Institute: Pennsylvania
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2024-09-01 End Date: 2025-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $25,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $25,003

Principal Investigators: Stephen Mainzer

Project Summary: While the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay was recognized as a serious issue over 40 years ago, despite significant efforts little change has occurred. Pennsylvania is a major contributor of freshwater runoff from the Susquehanna River Basin. We propose to create and validate a novel interdisciplinary Watershed Knowledge Index and Watershed Identity Measure. We then plan to implement a statewide survey to establish current levels of awareness and identity. We will also develop and examine the effects of experimental communication messaging in creating or advancing watershed identity.