Nicholas Campos, & Dr. Rachel Olsthoorn
The purpose of protecting environmental landscapes in urban areas is to not only conserve plants and wildlife, but also to help people connect to nature and the cultural history of a specific region. This study focuses on the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA), located in proximity to California State University Channel Islands, as a prime example of such a landscape offering recreational and educational opportunities. Managed by multiple agencies, including the National Park Service (NPS), the SMMNRA stands as one of the world’s largest urban park systems. Notably, it encompasses one of the five Mediterranean ecosystems globally and holds profound cultural significance, particularly for the indigenous tribes of the Chumash and Gabrielino/Tongva. Despite its ecological and cultural importance, the SMMNRA faces significant threats, mainly from anthropogenic disturbances such as urban development. Preserving this environmental landscape is crucial not only for safeguarding biodiversity but also for fostering a sense of connection to nature among the residents of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. This research aims to explore how the Santa Monica Mountains influence people’s connection to nature and their perceptions of environmental conservation, employing an anthropological perspective. Based on the theory of place attachment, the study aims to understand the factors influencing individuals’ connections within the SMMNRA. Drawing on insights from existing literature on place attachment theory, the research will analyze how people’s attachment to specific locations influences their attitudes towards nature. Furthermore, it will investigate how these insights can inform the management strategies of agencies operating within the SMMNRA, drawing comparisons with park management systems worldwide that incorporate public input. By examining various park management approaches, this study seeks to provide valuable insights for conservation planning within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, guided by public perceptions and attachment to the region.