Forestland management and empowerment: A phenomenological inquiry into the experiences of women forestland managers in the state of Georgia, USA

Hallie C. Harriman; Nicholas E. Fuhrman; Kathleen D. Kelsey; Kyle Maurice Woosnam

doi:10.37433/aad.v1i2.43

Authors

Hallie C. Harriman University of Georgia, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1279-3231
Nicholas E. Fuhrman University of Georgia, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0969-0541
Kathleen D. Kelsey University of Georgia, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9683-6993
Kyle Maurice Woosnam University of Georgia, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6674-7578

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37433/aad.v1i2.43

Keywords:

empowerment theory, forestry, natural resource management, underrepresented audiences, women, landowners

Abstract

Women are increasingly becoming the primary decision-makers of forested properties throughout the United States. The purpose of this study was to understand the experiences of women forestland owners in Georgia. A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to interview nine female forestland owners. Three themes emerged from the semi-structured interviews. Participants stated that land management involved: (a) initial feelings of inadequacy (an imposter syndrome), (b) personal and professional resources, and (c) genuine relationships. The theory of empowerment provided a basis for interpreting the findings and aided in the development of recommendations for future practice and research. We found that women experienced a temporary imposter stage early in land management that gave way to feeling empowered as their experiences with managing land increased. Access to trustworthy information, as well as genuine relationships with forestry professionals and other landowners, played key roles in such advancement. We recommend strategies for natural resource professionals to consider, including encouraging formal and informal networking opportunities when working with female audiences, including at educational outreach events like those hosted by Extension.

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