Get some background information. Encyclopedias and reference sources will give you an idea of the bigger picture. Some suggestions:

• Beckel, Lothar. The Atlas of Global Change. Reference G1046.C8 G413 1998.
• Cunningham, William. Environmental Encyclopedia. Reference GE10 .E58 1994.
• Goudie, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Global Change: Environmental Change and Human Society. 2 vols. Reference GE149 .E47 2002.

Search for a broader region and/or topic. It may be difficult to locate a lot of information about a local area. Consider broadening your search to the state or region. Also, looking for your subject without limiting to a geographical region might be helpful or necessary. For example: if my topic was “the impact of genetically modified foods on biodiversity”, it would be helpful to try “genetically modified foods and biodiversity” or “genetically engineered foods and biodiversity.”

Use many research tools, especially from history and from environmental science. You will need sources that help you provide a historical perspective and environmental issues related to your topic. This information will be available in a variety of places.

Give me a call for advice. I am happy to talk with you about research strategies.