Speaking of Place

Abstract

Environmental communicators highlight the importance of local voices and concerns in naturalresource planning, but others argue that the provincialism of place-based discourse can undermine the common good. How do participants speak of place in a public process and to what end? To answer these question, the author analyzed transcripts from thirty public discussions on water use. Findings indicated a discrete orientation toward the environment, as people compared one place to another and failed to mention natural or social connections between locales. The author suggests ways to improve public participation in light of the findings.

Workforce Characteristics and Attitudes Regarding Participation in Worksite Wellness Programs

“…Nearly 90% of Iowa workplaces employ fewer than 9 workers and nearly 98% of employ fewer than 50 workers. 25,26 It is well documented that smaller employers less often offer workplace wellness programs and that when they do, they face a number of challenges and barriers to implementation and engaging their employees.…”