Survey, waiver, and data evaluating human-nature connection in urban parks

Human-nature connection (HNC) is a concept derived from investigating the
formulation and extent of an individual’s identification with the natural
world. This relationship is often characterized as an emotional bond to
nature that develops from the contextualized, physical interactions of an
individual, beginning in childhood. This outcome presents complexity in
evaluating the development of HNC but suggests optimism in the pathways
for enhancing lifelong HNC. As urban populations increase, there is a
growing recognition worldwide of the potential for urban green space to
cultivate HNC and thus shape the environmental identity of urban
residents. The results of an online survey of 560 visitors to three
community parks (managed primarily to provide a variety of physical,
social and cultural opportunities) and three conservation parks (managed
primarily to protect native plants and wildlife) in Madison, Wisconsin,
USA, were used to investigate HNC. Linear mixed effects models evaluated
visitors’ HNC as a function of their (1) literacy and sentiment about
wildlife species, (2) park experience, (3) number and frequency of nine
childhood and adult recreation experiences, and (4) demographics. Across
the park response groups, the number and frequency of childhood and adult
recreation experiences was significantly associated with HNC, and this
positive association persisted in multiple recreation activities.
Furthermore, species literacy and sentiment, visiting a park for
'Nature', and frequent and extended visitation also was
significantly associated with HNC by park type. Our research demonstrates
the importance of lifelong recreation experiences in the development and
enhancement of HNC and provides evidence for differences in the expression
of HNC associated with particular attributes of urban park visitors and
their views of wildlife.