Rope Swings to Appreciation: Using Immersive Imagery and Stories to Inspire Broader Audiences in Aquatic Conservation

Fish and other aquatic life are inherently difficult to see and know, a challenge overcome only by intimate and immersive experiences in streams, lakes, and wetlands. For many reasons, these experiences have become uncommon, especially amongst city-dwellers who are likely to view their familiar waters with negative perceptions. It could also be said that aquatic scientists, who are privy to the wonders of freshwater ecosystems, are likewise difficult to know. As scientists and conservationists argue that freshwater ecosystems deserve increasing efforts of protection and restoration, there are few pathways that might bring would-be water advocates and activists to this urgent calling. Indeed, there may be a formidable barrier between our waters and the greater public consciousness and sympathy. We will present some lessons gained from our film projects that lend insight into how we might "breach the levy", through a more conscientious sharing of the biological wonder and potential of our waters, and a more conscious sharing of our own stories and motivations.