Mapping Place Change, Risk Perceptions & Adaptation Experiences of Drying Lakes in Arid Climates

Working in partnership with Healthy Environment Alliance (HEAL) of Utah and Utah Youth Environmental Solutions (UYES), the primary purpose of this project is to engage in participatory research methods to better identify communities’ differential, place-based needs, concerns, and capacities for adapting to and reducing the impacts of lake desiccation. To do so, we are using interviews and participatory workshops to better understand local needs and priorities when it comes to adapting to lake desiccation. In addition, this project provides an opportunity to address present needs identified by our community partners, specifically unequal exposure to air pollution. Workshops will include participatory mapping, body mapping, sense of place focus groups, an interactive climate actions exercise, and DIY air filter sessions. Geographically we will focus primarily on the Great Salt Lake, with a secondary emphasis on expanding future research into communities near the Salton Sea, Lake Mead and Lake Powell.