Degree Name
MA (Master of Arts)
Program
Criminal Justice and Criminology
Date of Award
8-2024
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Dustin Osborne
Committee Members
Bradley Edwards, Chris Rush
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of flora poaching among conservation officers, park rangers and botanists within Central Appalachia. Though some work has sought to understand poaching in other forms, such as animal poaching, little is known regarding the poaching of plants. This is especially true within the Appalachian Region. Several research questions were explored in this study, including the types of flora being poached, the characteristics of poachers, poaching tactics utilized, and deterrence measures that are currently in place. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 individuals working in the field. Findings contribute to the existing literature surrounding poaching, which can aid conservation efforts across the Appalachian Region.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Bowers, McKinley, "An Exploratory Study of Flora Poaching in Central Appalachia" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4432. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4432
Copyright
Copyright by the author.