Using Geospatial Tools to Link Forests, Parks and Human Health
Project Title
Use of Geospatial Analytics in Quantifying Forests, Green Space and Human Behaviors and Attitudes
Project Description
Researchers at the College of Natural Resources used geospatial technologies with stakeholders on public lands and open spaces to study the interplay between forests, green spaces and human behavior, from satellite canopy surveys to viewshed analysis.
The project aimed to improve human health and well-being. In the Carolinas, researchers collaborated with park districts to track how families used parks and identify underutilized spaces. In eastern North Carolina, citizen science and geospatial analytics helped build resilience to severe hurricanes.
The project also developed a “Park Prescription” platform, supporting doctors in recommending outdoor activity for patients with diabetes or hypertension and providing information on local parks and programs.
Principal Investigators
Collaborators
- Stakeholders on Johns Island, South Carolina, working to understand and model land-use changes from climate, urbanization and second-home development
- Researchers using advanced tools to measure and model ongoing human-environment interactions
Outcomes
- Improved individual health and increased use of public parks and green spaces
- Patients prescribed park-based activity increased daily steps by up to 8,369
- Twenty-six stakeholders attended workshops to map natural, cultural and at-risk resources on Johns Island, South Carolina
- Fifty reference atlases distributed to local stakeholders and community partners
A McIntire-Stennis supported project
About McIntire-Stennis
The McIntire-Stennis program, a unique federal-state partnership, cultivates and delivers forestry and natural resource innovations for a better future. By advancing research and education that increases the understanding of emerging challenges and fosters the development of relevant solutions, the program has ensured healthy, resilient forests and communities and an exceptional natural resources workforce since 1962.