The experiences of women tree planters in northern Ontario .

摘要

This thesis is an examination of the experiences of women tree planters in northern Ontario. Using open-ended interviews and participant observation, I explore the ways female tree planters negotiate their femininity within a male dominated work force. Drawing on literature from sociology and women's studies that focuses on gender and identity, individualism, equality, sociology of the body, sexual objectification, and women in non-traditional work, I outline a feminist critical analysis of how neo liberal discourse influences the work of female tree planters. In contrast to the existing literature on silviculture, most of which focuses on the sustainability practices, this study explores the daily experiences of women tree planters in remote work camps in northern Ontario.;I argue that through my interviews, observations and personal experiences, women within tree planting maintain and construct an equitable experience by employing neoliberalist perspectives and dialogue. In this context, this study recognizes that the negotiation of gendered identity is complex and a 'double bind' exercise. I suggest that the contradiction women face in their gendered identity as women tree planters stems from a neoliberalist perspective that both entrenches and liberates women's constructions of their work lives. In conclusion, an analysis of participant observation and interviews gives a nuanced understanding of women in reforestation work in northern Ontario.