Date of Award:
8-2013
Document Type:
Dissertation
Degree Name:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department:
English
Committee Chair(s)
Keith Grant-Davie
Committee
Keith Grant-Davie
Committee
John McLaughlin
Committee
Rebecca Walton
Committee
Mark Brunson
Committee
David Hailey
Abstract
This study is a rhetorical analysis of strategic communication in the Amalga Barrens wetlands controversy during the 1990s. The Bridgerland Audubon Society (BAS) in Cache Valley, Utah, was able to influence a change in public policy that removed the unique wetlands from consideration as a possible reservoir site for water taken from the Bear River. BAS led a successful grassroots effort by being civil, targeting specific individuals who had influence with the Utah legislature, focusing less on the environment and more on cost arguments that mattered to decision-makers, creating a portfolio of arguments grounded in scientific and economic data, and educating the community. BAS’s experience may be helpful to other environmental groups that are trying to lead efforts in their own communities. Although the strategies presented cannot be generalized to fit all groups and situations, they may serve as a starting point.
Checksum
7d32ee3a35701f4d9d3d5446c9bf6ac8
Recommended Citation
Vernon, Laura, "A Rhetorical Analysis of Strategic Communication in the Amalga Barrens Wetlands Controversy" (2013). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1704.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/1704
Included in
Copyright for this work is retained by the student. If you have any questions regarding the inclusion of this work in the Digital Commons, please email us at .