An analysis of quantity and framing of articles in New England newspapers relating to forest biomass and bioproducts using content analysis

An analysis of quantity and framing of articles in New England newspapers relating to forest biomass and bioproducts using content analysis
Marci Scofield
Advisor: Dr. Jessica Leahy

The successful use of biomass energy is dependant upon the public’s willingness to accept a new technology. In Maine, where forestry is an integral part of many northern economies, the amount of media coverage of biomass and bioproducts varies depending on the location of the media. It is possible to effectively measure the change in quantity of articles as well as the content of the articles using content analysis. After an initial analysis of two of Maine’s major newspapers, the Bangor Daily News and the Portland Press Herald, it was found that content relating to forest biomass varied depending on the location of the paper. In this study, newspapers throughout New England will be analyzed using WordStat Content Analysis software over a fixed period of time. After analyzing the newspapers, it is expected that there will be an overall increase in the quantity of articles concerning biomass and bioproducts and that public dialogue over the costs and benefits of harvesting will also increase. After analysis, the quantity and content of the articles will be compared to the location of the media. It is expected that newspapers in communities that have a greater economic dependence on forestry will publish a greater quantity of articles on biomass and bioproducts harvesting. Using content analysis and framing it will be possible to determine if there is a similar difference in public opinion of biomass harvesting depending on the proximity of the community to a forest harvesting site. As the interest in biomass increases, it will be possible to monitor public opinion to help determine forestry management and biomass policies that are best suited for particular locations.

Listen to an interview with Marci on July 9. 2008 (05:09 minutes)