The Mainstream-Grassroots Divide in the Environmental Movement: Environmental Groups in Washington State.

Objective. Observers of environmental politics have noted a division between mainstream national and grassroots environmental groups. This study attempts to determine whether a similar split in the movement can be observed at the state level. Methods. Data from a 1989 survey of 73 environmental groups in Washington State are analyzed. A distinction is made between institutionalized groups that regularly testify at the state legislature and grassroots groups that do not. Analysis focuses on environmental groups' structural characteristics, use of political resources, and choice of political activities. Results. Difference of means tests indicate that there are systematic differences between institutionalized and grassroots groups. The former have more members and larger paid staffs, derive more of their funding from other organizations, and are more bureaucratized. Second, principal components factor analysis reveals three kinds of political resources: mobilization resources, expertise, and organizational assets. Environmental groups rely on the first two more than on the last; grassroots groups are especially reliant on mobilization resources. Finally, logit analyses indicate that mobilization resources are positively related to the use of public outreach activities while expertise and organizational assets tend to be positively related to conventional political activities. Conclusions. These findings suggest that the division within the environmental movement exists within Washington State and structures the course of environmental politics within the state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]