The Human Dimensions Research Program at the Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) conducts social research in Illinois and throughout North America on various issues affecting wildlife management, ecosystems restoration, and environmental health for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations. We are dedicated to enhancing the understanding of stakeholder values, and the perceptions of these stakeholders in respect to specific problems involving wildlife and natural resources management.
Our projects focus on the social psychological aspects of conservation issues, identifying potential sources for conflict, and determining management solutions preferred by various concerned publics. The Human Dimensions Research Program strives to better our understanding of the complex nature of decisions concerning resource management.