A Public Participation GIS for Geodiversity and Geosystem Services Mapping in a Mountain Environment: A Case from Grayson County, Virginia, U.S.A.

Geodiversity and geosystem services are essential concepts for conservation efforts in mountain regions. Approaches that integrate both natural human dimensions of abiotic nature best suited this purpose; however, geodiversity research associated along vein still developing. Here, we explore the potential a public participation GIS, which integrates qualitative surveys with quantitative information, to assess possible relationships between Grayson County, Virginia, U.S.A. Specifically, we: (1) used index model study area, (2) GIS map markers, (3) visualized geodiversity–geosystem hotspots uncover values. Participants placed 318 most frequently representing aesthetic (32%), artistic (22%), educational (15%) The majority (55%) these markers corresponded low very scores. Geosystem value were clustered around population centers protected areas. Although measures often identify prioritize areas conservation, our results suggest locations valued by respondents would be missed using metrics alone. This thus supports need holistic approaches incorporating place values conserve understand people aspects landscapes.