Program on the Environment

Environmental stewardship and consciousness are crucial in a time when environmental issues are worsening, and the environmental sector faces significant funding cuts. Despite efforts to increase civic engagement, a disconnect remains between environmental organizations and the public, particularly in terms of accessibility. The aim of this study is to investigate the barriers that impede local environmental volunteers’ ability to engage in environmental work. In order to assess the improvements that environmental organizations can make to address obstacles and increase environmental stewardship. Through an internship with Sound Salmon Solutions (SSS), I attended community volunteer hatchery events in Edmonds, WA. I collected data through an online bilingual survey, evaluating SSS volunteers’ self-perception of their stewardship commitments and the challenges they face in accessing environmental opportunities. Additionally, I analyzed existing literature reviews to compare the intersection of community engagement practices and stewardship commitments. My survey and literature reviews reveal that environmental organizations must understand the barriers of local communities – most commonly including time constraints and lack of opportunity awareness – while also expanding community outreach about environmental engagement options, which are key to sustaining environmental stewardship. Prioritizing community engagement is vital in maintaining accessibility to environmental opportunities. These findings can inform environmental organizations about the importance of identifying and modifying local community outreach. Optimistically, creating more accessible avenues for environmental work and community engagement will increase the level of stewardship commitment among communities. This work contributes to broader efforts to foster an environmentally conscious society that enhances the socio-ecological well-being of its community.