The Beehives

Visualizing Environmental Threats

One of the main goals of this project is to create visual representations of environmental threats, such as sea level rise, in relevant locations around Gloucester County. Based on the survey results, I suggest a new generation of beehives that will be located in areas of highest place attachment and highlight the biggest environmental concerns reported in the survey.

History

The Beehive symbol in connection the Gloucester county dates back to the mid 1800's. In 1974 it officially became the county's seal symbolizing unity and cooperation within the community. In 2001, The Cook Foundation helped organize and raise funds for 56 beehive statues that were auctioned off to private businesses around the county.

A prototype

The focus of the new generation of beehives is to communicate environmental concerns highlighted by citizens. The new beehives would not need to be heavy-duty statues like the original beehives, but portable weather protected plywood signs that would be easy for anyone in the county to create and customize to environmental issues they care about. This beehive generation is about growing from our roots of unity and community cooperation to help rally the community to bring about environmental changes.

Gloucester Point Beach

As a coastal region, one of Gloucester County's defining characteristics is our proximity to water. From the Ware River to Gloucester Point Beach, there are many iconic regions of Gloucester that are at risk as sea levels continue to rise. Beehives that show where the projected water level will be is a great visual tool. Check out NOAA's sea level rise maps for interactive visuals of SLR in Gloucester.

Beaver Dam Park

Natural spaces are a vital part Gloucester's identity. Supporting Beaver Dam Park and other parks around the county are a great way to make sure Gloucester stays green!

Private Shorelines

Much of Gloucester's shores are privately owned and need to be protected from erosion and storm surges. Double sided beehive signs that display both inland and to the waterfront can display the need to protect our shores with best management practices, like living shorelines.

The Court House/Main Street

Main Street is one of the highest ranking locations for place attachment in the county. With local businesses, historic buildings, and the Daffodil Festival this area is a great location for beehives that promote county pride, history and resilience.