A spatial planning technique using the ecological knowledge of local residents: A study of the Hojobeol area of Shiheung city, Korea

Abstract

The ecological knowledge of local residents is attracting attention as an alternative to overcome the shortcomings of experts-led environmental spatial planning, such as overlapping benefits and gaps. There have been many studies showing the importance of ecological knowledge. Nonetheless, there is a limit to quantifying it and connecting it to spatial planning because ecological knowledge is mainly transmitted orally. Therefore, this study tried to quantify and map the ecological knowledge possessed by local residents through spatial text mining, and attempt spatial planning that reflects the micro-environmental state felt by local residents. Through analysis via spatial text mining of the ecological knowledge of local residents in the coastal area of Shiheung Hojobeol in Korea, significant ecological resources were determined: the point where reservoirs and rice paddy fields meet, halophytes in the middle river, and where the downstream beach meets the tidal flat habitat. In addition, the views of the bridge and river observation at the public gathering point were found to be the main ecology-related activities. This mapping of ecological knowledge can confirm the micro-environmental characteristics of the region, which can be used as primary data for various environmental policies, such as environmental planning, eco-tourism, and outdoor eco-education