Nia Haynes Morales | University of Florida (original) (raw)

Papers by Nia Haynes Morales

Knowledge & Management of Aquatic Ecosystems, 2020

Youth fishing programs are an important gateway into continued fishing participation. With the cu... more Youth fishing programs are an important gateway into continued fishing participation. With the current focus on R3 (recruitment, retention, and reactivation), it is important to understand the impacts fishing programs can have on their participants' knowledge, confidence, and interest in continuation. In this study, we conducted retrospective pre-post surveys of participants in a high school fishing program in Florida, USA, and compared results to a group of non-participating peers. We found significant increases in knowledge and confidence related to fishing skills among participants and significantly higher skills and confidence reported by participants as compared to non-participants. We also saw higher levels of self-identity as an angler as well as more desire to continue fishing on their own as compared to non-participants. The positive impacts of programs like this are important to the recruitment and retention of young anglers and continued evaluation of their effectiveness will lead to improved outreach programming. Keywords: Youth fishing / angler recruitment / human dimensions / R3 Résumé-Créer des pêcheurs à la ligne à vie : impacts d'un programme de pêche à l'école secondaire sur la pêche chez les jeunes, connaissances connexes, fiabilité et perception des difficultés. Les programmes de pêche pour les jeunes sont une porte d'entrée importante vers une participation continue à la pêche. Compte tenu de l'accent mis actuellement sur R3 (recrutement, maintien en poste et réactivation), il est important de comprendre les répercussions que les programmes de pêche peuvent avoir sur les connaissances, la fiabilité et l'intérêt des participants à poursuivre leurs activités. Dans le cadre de cette étude, nous avons mené des sondages rétrospectifs avant et après la participation à un programme de pêche dans les écoles secondaires en Floride, aux États-Unis, et comparé les résultats à ceux d'un groupe de pairs non-participants. Nous avons constaté une augmentation importante des connaissances et de la fiabilité des participants en ce qui a trait aux compétences en matière de pêche, et des compétences et une fiabilité beaucoup plus élevées chez les participants que chez les non-participants. Nous avons également constaté des niveaux plus élevés d'auto-identité en tant que pêcheur à la ligne ainsi qu'un plus grand désir de continuer à pêcher seul par rapport aux non-participants. Les répercussions positives de programmes comme celui-ci sont importantes pour le recrutement et le maintien en poste des jeunes pêcheurs à la ligne et l'évaluation continue de leur efficacité permettra d'améliorer les programmes de sensibilisation.

Nature Ecology and Evolution, 2020

comment Inclusive conservation requires amplifying experiences of diverse scientists As conservat... more comment Inclusive conservation requires amplifying experiences of diverse scientists As conservation organizations seek to create inclusive communities, they should reflect on current experiences. Using interview vignettes, we bring to attention the isolation and discrimination experienced by scientists who are Black, Indigenous and people of colour, alongside additional burdens of diversity and inclusion work.

Field experiences can provide transformative opportunities for many individuals who eventually pu... more Field experiences can provide transformative opportunities for many individuals who eventually pursue ecology, natural resource, and conservation careers. However, some of the same elements of field-based programs that define and provide pivotal experiences for some represent barriers for others, especially students from underrepresented groups. Barriers may be financial, physical, cultural , or social. Issues of gender, identity, and race/ethnicity, for example, can be isolating or shut down learning during intensive field experiences when group leaders are not prepared to respond to interpersonal challenges. We explore some benefits and barriers presented by field learning UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION

Fisheries Research, 2020

Effectively managing freshwater recreational fisheries and sustaining participation requires unde... more Effectively managing freshwater recreational fisheries and sustaining participation requires understanding the demographic characteristics of anglers and the relationships between angler motivations and stated behaviors. We surveyed freshwater anglers in Florida, USA to assess demographic characteristics, stated fishing behaviors, choice of target species, motivations, and communication modes. Generalized ordinal logistic regression analyses of these factors revealed several significant differences among demographic groups, such as targeted species, travel distance and mode of fishing. There were also broad similarities. Anglers of differing races/ ethnicities were characterized by a similar suite of motivations for fishing, and most demographic groups used similar communication channels. This challenges ideas that non-white anglers are well-characterized by singular motivations for fishing (like food or socialization), or that agencies lack tools to communicate with these anglers. Results suggest that management agencies may best serve and diverse anglers by ensuring varied angling opportunities are accessible and that information is communicated directly between agents and anglers.

Fisheries Research, 2020

Effective management of recreational fisheries requires allocating management resources, often am... more Effective management of recreational fisheries requires allocating management resources, often among multiple fisheries targeting different species. In this context, making good allocation decisions is challenging absent objective information describing the relative importance of those fisheries. Economic value would be one such metric but is rarely assessed. Here we demonstrate an approach for doing so, using the Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) fishery as a case study. A survey was conducted to collect information on Black Crappie angler behaviors and attitudes including travel distance, fishing mode, catch effort, and other socioeconomic factors that affect their fishing trips in 2017. The travel cost method was used to estimate the latent demand for fishing trips. Our results indicate that for Florida residents, the per-trip consumer surplus (CS) per angler is 53−53-53−102, the annual CS per angler is 1,473−1,473-1,473−2,837, and the total annual CS for was 470million−470 million-470million−904 million, depending on model specification. For nonresidents, the per-trip CS per angler is 53−53-53−83, the annual CS per angler is 1,140−1,140-1,140−1,677, and the total annual CS for was 26million−26 million-26million−40 million, depending on model specification. While these estimates compare similarly to estimates of higher-profile fisheries, such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) in other locations, there are fewer comparative studies than would be ideal. Nonetheless, this study provides a baseline to which future estimates can be compared, and upon which can be built an understanding of relatively economic and potentially management importance.

Environmental Management, 2020

We used a modified version of the social cognitive career theory to examine demographic character... more We used a modified version of the social cognitive career theory to examine demographic characteristics and personal and
contextual career influences relating to career behaviors. A survey of 478 undergraduates revealed neutral to positive
perceptions of EC careers across demographic characteristics with some variation in perceptions based on academic level.
Minorities were more likely to anticipate discrimination in their future careers and to report financial issues as career barriers.
In general, students in EC fields were less likely to anticipate discrimination than those on other career paths. Results also
highlighted minority underrepresentation in outdoor recreation activities, a factor associated with EC careers. Juniors and
seniors reported higher EC related self-efficacy, but less positive outcome expectations than freshmen and sophomores.
Awareness and understanding of factors that influence career behavior can help agencies and organizations better address
equity and representation concerns.

We evaluated stakeholder engagement aspects of a statewide Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides ... more We evaluated stakeholder engagement aspects of a statewide Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides regulation change in
Florida. Staff from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) who worked on the project and stakeholders who
participated in outreach were interviewed and/or surveyed about their opinions of the process. This was the largest stakeholder
engagement process ever conducted by FWC for freshwater fisheries management decision making; therefore, an evaluation
was critical to measure the success of the process and to inform future stakeholder engagement. Staff reflected positively on the
process but noted breakdowns in communication and a lack of human dimensions expertise. Stakeholders felt that their input
was appreciated and used by the agency to aid in decision making. This evaluation illustrates where the project was effective and
areas where improvements can be made for future projects.

We assessed influences of conservation and natural resource (CNR) internships on minority student... more We assessed influences of conservation and natural resource (CNR) internships on minority students' perceptions of selfefficacy and CNR career goals and expectations, based on social cognitive career theory. We conducted six focus groups using Q methodology, surveyed 134 students, and followed up with 23 alumni and a control group of 11 candidates one year later to measure the impacts of three national programs. Results showed significant increases in knowledge, more positive perceptions and outcome expectations, higher self-efficacy, and increased interest in CNR careers. After one year, alumni continued reporting positive changes and greater perceptions of competitiveness for CNR careers than the control group despite both groups having similar rates of volunteerism/job history in CNR. Results also suggest the need to involve students earlier to encourage interest in CNR careers.

Understanding the influence of message framing is critical to promote public support for environm... more Understanding the influence of message framing is critical to promote public support for environmental conservation. We tested six brief, online videos about biodiversity conservation with positive (love and benefits) versus negative (loss and warning) messages with 524 participants. The respondents were willing to donate more money and time to organizations associated with positively framed videos. Contrary to the other studies, neither the gender nor level of audience involvement in environmental issues influenced response to positive or negative messaging. Findings highlight the use of positive messaging in digital media campaigns and encourage environmental practitioners to refine and test their messages with specific audiences.

Using a framework based on social cognitive career theory, we conducted 38 interviews and four fo... more Using a framework based on social cognitive career theory, we conducted 38 interviews and four focus groups with college students to identify motivations and barriers faced by underrepresented groups to natural resource careers. Interviews revealed career satisfaction as the most important goal for both natural resource and a comparison of liberal arts students. School difficulty and outsider perceptions were barriers for both groups. Natural resource students faced family pressure to pursue other careers. Focus groups with natural resource students using Q methodology revealed participation in outdoor recreation, exposure to nature-related media, and witnessing environmental degradation as important influences. Barriers included perceptions of ethnic/racial discrimination, financial pressures, and lack of confidence. Results may help academia and agencies better address motivations and barriers to natural resource careers.

Wildlife Society Bulletin, Mar 18, 2015

Racial and ethnic diversity in natural resource careers does not reflect U.S. population trends. ... more Racial and ethnic diversity in natural resource careers does not reflect U.S. population trends. To explore potential drivers of underrepresentation in this field, we used a life-cycle analysis to review 55 scholarly articles to identify barriers and supports influencing career choices (i.e., personal, contextual, selfefficacy, outcome expectations) across 4 age groups. The number of cited barriers differed significantly among age groups. Personal influences included race or ethnicity, gender, age, and perceptions or predispositions toward nature. The latter was the most cited barrier for youth. Contextual influences included social, familial, structural, and experiential, and varied significantly between age groups. Exposure to nature was the most cited contextual barrier for all groups: 59% for youth, 40% for high school, 43% for college, and 50% for career. Self-efficacy was emphasized in studies referencing youth, high school, and college age groups, and outcome expectations were only discussed in studies of the career group. After the literature analysis, we reviewed web sites, reports, and conducted personal interviews to explore how 21 federal natural-resource agency diversity programs address variables influencing minority recruitment. Participating agencies reported challenges recruiting individuals, ensuring funding, and creating welcoming environments for minority participants, many of whom have never experienced remote natural environments or nontraditional careers. Our analysis revealed the need for a modified Framework for Career Influences. The proposed framework combines existing theories on social career choice and minority involvement in natural resource activities, but identifies personal and contextual influences that are important for minority students, as endogenous variables that influence and are influenced by self-efficacy and outcome expectations. Ó 2015 The Wildlife Society.

Knowledge & Management of Aquatic Ecosystems, 2020

Youth fishing programs are an important gateway into continued fishing participation. With the cu... more Youth fishing programs are an important gateway into continued fishing participation. With the current focus on R3 (recruitment, retention, and reactivation), it is important to understand the impacts fishing programs can have on their participants' knowledge, confidence, and interest in continuation. In this study, we conducted retrospective pre-post surveys of participants in a high school fishing program in Florida, USA, and compared results to a group of non-participating peers. We found significant increases in knowledge and confidence related to fishing skills among participants and significantly higher skills and confidence reported by participants as compared to non-participants. We also saw higher levels of self-identity as an angler as well as more desire to continue fishing on their own as compared to non-participants. The positive impacts of programs like this are important to the recruitment and retention of young anglers and continued evaluation of their effectiveness will lead to improved outreach programming. Keywords: Youth fishing / angler recruitment / human dimensions / R3 Résumé-Créer des pêcheurs à la ligne à vie : impacts d'un programme de pêche à l'école secondaire sur la pêche chez les jeunes, connaissances connexes, fiabilité et perception des difficultés. Les programmes de pêche pour les jeunes sont une porte d'entrée importante vers une participation continue à la pêche. Compte tenu de l'accent mis actuellement sur R3 (recrutement, maintien en poste et réactivation), il est important de comprendre les répercussions que les programmes de pêche peuvent avoir sur les connaissances, la fiabilité et l'intérêt des participants à poursuivre leurs activités. Dans le cadre de cette étude, nous avons mené des sondages rétrospectifs avant et après la participation à un programme de pêche dans les écoles secondaires en Floride, aux États-Unis, et comparé les résultats à ceux d'un groupe de pairs non-participants. Nous avons constaté une augmentation importante des connaissances et de la fiabilité des participants en ce qui a trait aux compétences en matière de pêche, et des compétences et une fiabilité beaucoup plus élevées chez les participants que chez les non-participants. Nous avons également constaté des niveaux plus élevés d'auto-identité en tant que pêcheur à la ligne ainsi qu'un plus grand désir de continuer à pêcher seul par rapport aux non-participants. Les répercussions positives de programmes comme celui-ci sont importantes pour le recrutement et le maintien en poste des jeunes pêcheurs à la ligne et l'évaluation continue de leur efficacité permettra d'améliorer les programmes de sensibilisation.

Nature Ecology and Evolution, 2020

comment Inclusive conservation requires amplifying experiences of diverse scientists As conservat... more comment Inclusive conservation requires amplifying experiences of diverse scientists As conservation organizations seek to create inclusive communities, they should reflect on current experiences. Using interview vignettes, we bring to attention the isolation and discrimination experienced by scientists who are Black, Indigenous and people of colour, alongside additional burdens of diversity and inclusion work.

Field experiences can provide transformative opportunities for many individuals who eventually pu... more Field experiences can provide transformative opportunities for many individuals who eventually pursue ecology, natural resource, and conservation careers. However, some of the same elements of field-based programs that define and provide pivotal experiences for some represent barriers for others, especially students from underrepresented groups. Barriers may be financial, physical, cultural , or social. Issues of gender, identity, and race/ethnicity, for example, can be isolating or shut down learning during intensive field experiences when group leaders are not prepared to respond to interpersonal challenges. We explore some benefits and barriers presented by field learning UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION

Fisheries Research, 2020

Effectively managing freshwater recreational fisheries and sustaining participation requires unde... more Effectively managing freshwater recreational fisheries and sustaining participation requires understanding the demographic characteristics of anglers and the relationships between angler motivations and stated behaviors. We surveyed freshwater anglers in Florida, USA to assess demographic characteristics, stated fishing behaviors, choice of target species, motivations, and communication modes. Generalized ordinal logistic regression analyses of these factors revealed several significant differences among demographic groups, such as targeted species, travel distance and mode of fishing. There were also broad similarities. Anglers of differing races/ ethnicities were characterized by a similar suite of motivations for fishing, and most demographic groups used similar communication channels. This challenges ideas that non-white anglers are well-characterized by singular motivations for fishing (like food or socialization), or that agencies lack tools to communicate with these anglers. Results suggest that management agencies may best serve and diverse anglers by ensuring varied angling opportunities are accessible and that information is communicated directly between agents and anglers.

Fisheries Research, 2020

Effective management of recreational fisheries requires allocating management resources, often am... more Effective management of recreational fisheries requires allocating management resources, often among multiple fisheries targeting different species. In this context, making good allocation decisions is challenging absent objective information describing the relative importance of those fisheries. Economic value would be one such metric but is rarely assessed. Here we demonstrate an approach for doing so, using the Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) fishery as a case study. A survey was conducted to collect information on Black Crappie angler behaviors and attitudes including travel distance, fishing mode, catch effort, and other socioeconomic factors that affect their fishing trips in 2017. The travel cost method was used to estimate the latent demand for fishing trips. Our results indicate that for Florida residents, the per-trip consumer surplus (CS) per angler is 53−53-53−102, the annual CS per angler is 1,473−1,473-1,473−2,837, and the total annual CS for was 470million−470 million-470million−904 million, depending on model specification. For nonresidents, the per-trip CS per angler is 53−53-53−83, the annual CS per angler is 1,140−1,140-1,140−1,677, and the total annual CS for was 26million−26 million-26million−40 million, depending on model specification. While these estimates compare similarly to estimates of higher-profile fisheries, such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) in other locations, there are fewer comparative studies than would be ideal. Nonetheless, this study provides a baseline to which future estimates can be compared, and upon which can be built an understanding of relatively economic and potentially management importance.

Environmental Management, 2020

We used a modified version of the social cognitive career theory to examine demographic character... more We used a modified version of the social cognitive career theory to examine demographic characteristics and personal and
contextual career influences relating to career behaviors. A survey of 478 undergraduates revealed neutral to positive
perceptions of EC careers across demographic characteristics with some variation in perceptions based on academic level.
Minorities were more likely to anticipate discrimination in their future careers and to report financial issues as career barriers.
In general, students in EC fields were less likely to anticipate discrimination than those on other career paths. Results also
highlighted minority underrepresentation in outdoor recreation activities, a factor associated with EC careers. Juniors and
seniors reported higher EC related self-efficacy, but less positive outcome expectations than freshmen and sophomores.
Awareness and understanding of factors that influence career behavior can help agencies and organizations better address
equity and representation concerns.

We evaluated stakeholder engagement aspects of a statewide Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides ... more We evaluated stakeholder engagement aspects of a statewide Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides regulation change in
Florida. Staff from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) who worked on the project and stakeholders who
participated in outreach were interviewed and/or surveyed about their opinions of the process. This was the largest stakeholder
engagement process ever conducted by FWC for freshwater fisheries management decision making; therefore, an evaluation
was critical to measure the success of the process and to inform future stakeholder engagement. Staff reflected positively on the
process but noted breakdowns in communication and a lack of human dimensions expertise. Stakeholders felt that their input
was appreciated and used by the agency to aid in decision making. This evaluation illustrates where the project was effective and
areas where improvements can be made for future projects.

We assessed influences of conservation and natural resource (CNR) internships on minority student... more We assessed influences of conservation and natural resource (CNR) internships on minority students' perceptions of selfefficacy and CNR career goals and expectations, based on social cognitive career theory. We conducted six focus groups using Q methodology, surveyed 134 students, and followed up with 23 alumni and a control group of 11 candidates one year later to measure the impacts of three national programs. Results showed significant increases in knowledge, more positive perceptions and outcome expectations, higher self-efficacy, and increased interest in CNR careers. After one year, alumni continued reporting positive changes and greater perceptions of competitiveness for CNR careers than the control group despite both groups having similar rates of volunteerism/job history in CNR. Results also suggest the need to involve students earlier to encourage interest in CNR careers.

Understanding the influence of message framing is critical to promote public support for environm... more Understanding the influence of message framing is critical to promote public support for environmental conservation. We tested six brief, online videos about biodiversity conservation with positive (love and benefits) versus negative (loss and warning) messages with 524 participants. The respondents were willing to donate more money and time to organizations associated with positively framed videos. Contrary to the other studies, neither the gender nor level of audience involvement in environmental issues influenced response to positive or negative messaging. Findings highlight the use of positive messaging in digital media campaigns and encourage environmental practitioners to refine and test their messages with specific audiences.

Using a framework based on social cognitive career theory, we conducted 38 interviews and four fo... more Using a framework based on social cognitive career theory, we conducted 38 interviews and four focus groups with college students to identify motivations and barriers faced by underrepresented groups to natural resource careers. Interviews revealed career satisfaction as the most important goal for both natural resource and a comparison of liberal arts students. School difficulty and outsider perceptions were barriers for both groups. Natural resource students faced family pressure to pursue other careers. Focus groups with natural resource students using Q methodology revealed participation in outdoor recreation, exposure to nature-related media, and witnessing environmental degradation as important influences. Barriers included perceptions of ethnic/racial discrimination, financial pressures, and lack of confidence. Results may help academia and agencies better address motivations and barriers to natural resource careers.

Wildlife Society Bulletin, Mar 18, 2015

Racial and ethnic diversity in natural resource careers does not reflect U.S. population trends. ... more Racial and ethnic diversity in natural resource careers does not reflect U.S. population trends. To explore potential drivers of underrepresentation in this field, we used a life-cycle analysis to review 55 scholarly articles to identify barriers and supports influencing career choices (i.e., personal, contextual, selfefficacy, outcome expectations) across 4 age groups. The number of cited barriers differed significantly among age groups. Personal influences included race or ethnicity, gender, age, and perceptions or predispositions toward nature. The latter was the most cited barrier for youth. Contextual influences included social, familial, structural, and experiential, and varied significantly between age groups. Exposure to nature was the most cited contextual barrier for all groups: 59% for youth, 40% for high school, 43% for college, and 50% for career. Self-efficacy was emphasized in studies referencing youth, high school, and college age groups, and outcome expectations were only discussed in studies of the career group. After the literature analysis, we reviewed web sites, reports, and conducted personal interviews to explore how 21 federal natural-resource agency diversity programs address variables influencing minority recruitment. Participating agencies reported challenges recruiting individuals, ensuring funding, and creating welcoming environments for minority participants, many of whom have never experienced remote natural environments or nontraditional careers. Our analysis revealed the need for a modified Framework for Career Influences. The proposed framework combines existing theories on social career choice and minority involvement in natural resource activities, but identifies personal and contextual influences that are important for minority students, as endogenous variables that influence and are influenced by self-efficacy and outcome expectations. Ó 2015 The Wildlife Society.