Recognizing Farmer Environmentalism: Nutrient Runoff and Toxic Dinoflagellate Blooms in the Chesapeake Bay Region

Environmental anthropology can help make explicit the roles of beliefs, values, and experiences in the formation of cultural models. These cultural models allow individuals to understand complex environmental problems confronting their communities and threatening their livelihoods. We present results from an ongoing anthropological study of environment and pollution on Maryland's lower Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. We first focus on how farmers view themselves as equally if not more concerned about the environment than urban residents and identify key cultural themes or schemas that underlie farmer environmentalism. Next, we compare the views of farmers and environmental professionals on Pfiesteria through a correspondence analysis of key terms. In contrast to existing public opinion, farmers and environmental professionals are similar in their general knowledge and views on Pfiesteria. We conclude with arguments for integrating farmer environmentalism into ongoing programs and policies to control nutrient runoff and improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay region.