Baselines of acceptability and generational change on the Mactaquac hydroelectric dam headpond (New Brunswick, Canada). (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Keilty, Kristina; Beckley, Thomas M.; Sherren, Kate
• Is Part Of: Geoforum. Volume 75(2016)
• Page Start: 234
• Page End: 248
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: Dam removal -- Energy landscapes -- Hydroelectricity -- Infrastructure -- Landscape perceptions -- Reservoir; Geography -- Periodicals; Human geography -- Periodicals; Regional planning -- Periodicals; Sciences de la terre -- Périodiques; Géographie -- Périodiques; Géographie humaine -- Périodiques; Aménagement du territoire -- Périodiques; Earth sciences; Geography; Human geography; Regional planning; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 304.205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.geoforum.2016.08.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-7185

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: We synthesized literature to create a novel Baselines of Acceptability framework. The framework helps to map the origin and flexibility of landscape expectations. Dams are a special case among renewables, for scale, maturity and amenity. Non-First Nation locals have adapted to the Mactaquac dam and want it replaced. Energy and climate challenges become landscape and community issues for locals. Abstract: Hydroelectricity is an old yet reliable form of renewable energy, with acknowledged social and ecological impacts. A tension currently exists between such concerns and energy needs, with dam construction and removal ongoing around the world. It is critical to better understand the implications of both on local citizens. We performed map elicitation interviews with 20 locals around the prematurely-aging Mactaquac Dam and headpond, in New Brunswick, Canada, to understand if and how they came to accept the dam landscape, and what they want for its future. A Baselines of Acceptability conceptual framework was developed to guide the interpretation. Respondents demonstrated attachment to the dam-in-place landscape, even those initially disadvantaged by its construction, and a preference for keeping the headpond intact. Despite this demonstrated adaptability, the paper calls for improved transparency, scope and justice in energy landscape decision-making, as well as further testing of the framework with different demographics, infrastructure case studies and over time.