Exploring coastal resilience through community photography and visual storytelling

You are invited to participate in a research study examining social and environmental change through photography and visual storytelling in the Damariscotta River Estuary.

WHO: Researchers from the University of Maine Communication & Journalism Department are looking for 10-20 residents living in or around the Damariscotta Estuary (18 years or older) to join their team in an effort to document the important changes happening around us.

WHEN: Through Summer 2020 (dates yet to be determined)

WHERE: Education Hall at Coastal Rivers’ Round Top Farm (3 Round Top Lane, Damariscotta, ME 04543)

HOW: Community participants will be asked to photograph local sites where they have observed change in built and natural environments. The photos will guide group discussion at 2-3 workshops (2 hours each) where participants will be be asked to discuss personal experiences and help the researchers analyze photo themes.

Results will be shared during a public photo exhibition, where people can engage in a conversation about coastal management. Light refreshments will be provided at the workshops and exhibition.

No camera or prior photography skills are necessary, and any adult resident living in or around the Damariscotta River is welcome to participate.

Participation in the project is completely voluntary and any information shared during the workshops will remain confidential, unless explicit consent is provided by participants.

To learn more about the project or to sign-up, please visit the UMaine website, email the UMaine research team, or call project leader Kevin Duffy at 262-339-5005.