From Mines to Miles: Revitalizing Communities from a Post-Industrial Landscape to a Recreation Area

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Date

2024-06-08

Authors

Phillips, Sarah

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

This project looks at the possibility of mined landscapes remediated into adaptive reuse spaces to provide equitable recreation opportunities for growing communities. These sites are a relic of time, and we can deploy placemaking and placekeeping practices to ensure the history of the site is not forgotten, and the character of these spaces are transformed for future generations. As a case study for one of those communities, Central Oregon should take into consideration its recreation economy and revitalize a previously strip - mined site as a new recreation park for its diametrically growing communities. This method of remediation of the Lower Bridge Mine will be broken into three phases: first, remediation through traditional ecological knowledge practices i ncluding crescent berms, branching on - contour swales, and trinchera dry stone masonry check dams. Second, creating a phyto - stabilization high desert planting plan and activation of a seedbank on the site will reduce the harmful effects of the mining indust ry. Finally, a monitoring program to ensure placemaking and placekeeping techniques are deployed for a successful project. By transforming a wasteland into an enjoyable and habitable site there could be a perceived illusion that the past has been erased, b ut through signage and other remnant relics the history of the site and the lessons learned in remediation will not be forgotten. In conclusion, the site can become a case study for placemaking and placekeeping practices for future mine remediation to crea te adaptable landscapes.

Description

126 pages

Keywords

strip mine, central oregon, placemaking, placekeeping, recreation, traditional ecological knowledge

Citation