Transforming Perceptions Panel Discussion

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Moderator: Cait Field

Panelists: Denise Hoffman-Brandt, Melissa Zavala, Li Sumpter, Nancy Webster, & Lisa Manne

Reclaimed lands often suffer from a perception problem. It can be hard to shake the labels of “damaged,” “wasteland,” or “dump,” with many people preferring to ignore or forget these disturbed landscapes. Dispelling myths and starting a perceptual shift requires researchers and practitioners to gather and present evidence in compelling ways. Approaches can range from crafting experiences to witness the beauty of a changing ecosystem to designing creative projects that foster community pride. These perceptual changes do not follow a linear path, and this panel will explore some of the drivers and barriers along the way.