Year of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Science (MS)

Department or School/College

W.A Franke College of Forestry and Conservation

Committee Chair

Dr. Melissa S. Weddell

Commitee Members

Dr. Hilary O. Faxon Dr. Christina S. Barsky Dr. Theresa M. Floyd

Keywords

long-distance trails, rural, sense of place, Montana, Continental Divide Trail

Abstract

Along the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), rural communities have faced immense and rapid economic change in the last 50 years, spearheaded by a shift from traditional extraction-based industries to recreation-based economies. This research examines the impacts of economic transition on sense of place in four rural Montana communities- Anaconda, Augusta, Lima, and Lincoln- that have experienced economic hardship due to the decline of mining, agriculture, and timber industries. While the shift to amenity-based economies offers economic diversification, it also presents challenges such as lower-paying jobs, seasonal instability, and cultural impacts from increased tourism. This research aims to understand 1) how economic transition influences community identity, stakeholder attachment, and perceptions of tourism, and 2) what the roles of empowerment and engagement are in shaping the sense of place in transition communities. Using targeted interviews, the study applies Erfani's reconceptualized framework of sense of place to examine the interplay of individual, community, and place relationships. This study contributes to the literature on sense of place theory, rural economic transition, and the social and economic impacts of long-distance trails. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and local businesses to develop strategies that align with community values, promoting economic diversification, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices in rural trail communities.

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Available for download on Thursday, December 30, 2027

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