Perceived visual landscape changes in a fire prone environment: A multi-method approach

This research used a multi-method approach to explore people’s perceptions of landscape changes associated with prescribed burning regimes. Photographs of remnants of indigenous ecosystems at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, Australia, taken before and after prescribed burnings, were used for interviewing experts in the field of fire landscape management (N = 94) and a sample of lay public (N = 93) from south east Australia and central Chile. A combination of photo-sorting techniques was used to collect complementary data sets (similarity, preference rating and categorical data) which were analysed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, content and multivariate analysis techniques and correlation analysis. The results allowed identifying the extent to which most salient variables affect landscape preferences over time. Perceptions of burnt and regenerating landscapes were found to be influenced the most by different evidence of fire and complexity of the landscape. Findings can be used to inform design and management strategies within the context of natural settings prone to fires.

► Variance in landscape preferences were explained by the sites and time variables.
► Evidence of fire and complexity are the highest predictor of preference.
► Expertise in fire management practices and familiarity vary landscape meanings.
► People’s perception is explained by socio-cultural aspects.
► People’s aesthetic responses were in line with ecological values over time.