We are writing to request your assistance in a study about the Sebago Lake watershed based on your ownership of woodland areas within the Lake's watershed. This research study is being conducted by Dr. Firooza Pavri from University of Southern Maine.
The goal of this survey is to understand what motivates landowners to conserve their land, any stewardship strategies you engage in on your property, how to encourage and maintain interest in conservation, as well as gain insight into the thoughts and perceptions of landowners about their land in general.
You must be at least eighteen years old to participate in this research study. If you decide to participate, please fill out the survey through the link provided here. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. The information you provide will be kept anonymous. Only members of the research team will have access to the information generated by this survey. No information, which might directly identify you, will be presented in any research reports or communications. Your name will not be associated with your responses to the survey. Data generated through the survey software will remove any identifying markers before the survey results are generated. Written reports summarizing the findings of the research project will only present general results. Data will be maintained in a de-identified form.
There are no foreseeable risks to your participation in this study. Participation is voluntary. If you choose to take part in the study, you may stop at any time or skip any items during the survey; refusal to participate or withdraw from the study will involve no penalty.
Completion of the survey implies consent to participate.
Your participation is important to the success of the study. Your participation will help to ensure that issues and concerns about Sebago Lake watershed and its future can be reported in a non-biased, confidential manner. If you have any further questions, comments or concerns about the study, you may write or call:
Firooza Pavri Phone: (207) 780 5941
E-mail: Firooza.pavri@maine.edu
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME 04101
If you have any questions concerning your rights as a research subject, you may contact the University of Southern Maine’s Human Research Protection Office at (207) 780-4517 or usmorio@maine.edu