Differences in place attachment among Allegheny National Forest users

This paper is based on a study of National Forest users and compares the level of place attachment among various users of the Hickory Creek Wilderness, the Hearts Content Scenic Area, the Hearts Content Recreation Area and surrounding landowners in the Allegheny National Forest. Specifically, visitors were asked about their level of attachment to the area using a 10-item place attachment index. The 10-item index was factor analyzed and revealed two distinct sub-dimensions, place dependence and place identity, and a single item, place indifference, that did not fit with either factor. The place attachment index and both sub-dimensions had very high reliabilities ranging from alpha=0.89-0.80. Additionally, respondents were asked to answer a series of items measuring activity and frequency of participation. Finally, the relationships between the variables were examined. The results of this study showed a number of significant relationships between place attachment, trip purpose and support or opposition to wilderness management policies. There were significant differences in place attachment across user groups. For example, participants in more resource dependent activities tended to indicate higher levels of place attachment. Managers should consider giving particular attention to the most resource dependent users. Also, they should be aware certain user groups tend to be more attached and may warrant special consideration during planning processes.