Wilkinson, Jason D. 2007. Evaluating collaborative outputs: A content analysis of watershed plans and salmon recovery plans in the Puget Sound Basin. MS.
Read the full thesis here (1.5 MB pdf)
Collaborative, watershed-based planning processes are a widespread mechanism
for managing natural resource issues, but little research to date examines the outputs of
collaborative processes. Two collaborative processes in the Puget Sound region of
Washington State formed the focus of this study—watershed planning and salmon
recovery planning. Both processes resulted in outputs in the form of planning
documents, and this study systematically analyzed those outputs in order to evaluate
how the two processes are achieving preliminary policy objectives. Evaluation included
a macro-level analysis of plan characteristics, as well as an in-depth assessment of the
treatment of low stream flows.
Both watershed planning and salmon recovery planning resulted in development
of plans throughout Puget Sound. Key findings specific to both processes include: 1)
Required or suggested planning elements are included in the majority of plans; 2) Most
plans present recommendations and priorities to guide implementation; and 3) The
treatment of low stream flows is highly variable from plan-to-plan. These findings
indicate that the two planning processes led to outputs addressing basic policy objectives; however, improving stream flows is not a region-wide planning priority.
Implications of the study’s findings are: 1) Watershed-level efforts producing a
number of outputs across a region should consider integrating efforts during early
planning phases in order to enhance the prospects for achieving regional environmental
outcomes; and 2) Collaborative planning processes will place minimal priority on
regulatory approaches, suggesting an increased role for government in planning.