Human reliance on the goods and services provided by ecosystems and the global decline in the health of many of these ecosystems, necessitates ecosystem valuation for the purposes of decision-making and conservation policy. The literature suggests that conventionally employed economic valuation methods have been unsuccessful in capturing the full scope of the benefits ecosystems provide, particularly those benefits that are considered cultural. This research explores public perceptions of salt marsh value through the use of focus groups in marsh-adjacent communities in Massachusetts, Virginia, and Georgia. Results suggest that in case study communities, outdoor experiences in salt marshes inspire serenity in Massachusetts, shape shore and “marsh” identities in Virginia, and promote stewardship cultivation in Georgia. Perceived threats to these benefits, such as the threat of residential development, industrial pollution, and increasing flood risk, together constitute the context for various community responses related to marsh protection. Results contribute to existing economic valuations. / Includes bibliography. / Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2017. / FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection