Participatory modeling and the dilemma of diffuse nitrogen management in a residential watershed
Environmental Modelling & Software
Challenging beliefs through multi-level participatory modelling in Indonesia
Environmental Modelling & Software
Position Paper: Modelling with stakeholders
Environmental Modelling & Software
Environmental Modelling & Software
Building 'participation' upon critique: The Loweswater Care Project, Cumbria, UK
Environmental Modelling & Software
Position Paper: The role of expert opinion in environmental modelling
Environmental Modelling & Software
A fuzzy GIS-based system to integrate local and technical knowledge in soil salinity monitoring
Environmental Modelling & Software
Environmental Modelling & Software
Exploring the application of participatory modeling approaches in the Sonora River Basin, Mexico
Environmental Modelling & Software
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Natural resource managers face complex challenges in addressing non-point source water pollution. A participatory modeling approach was applied in the St. Albans Bay watershed to identify the most effective phosphorus control options to achieve the load reductions required by the Lake Champlain Phosphorus Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). Stakeholders participated in the collection of data in the watershed, model creation, development of policy scenarios, and interpretation of model results. The participatory modeling approach employed in this study led to the identification of new solutions to an old water resource problem regarding phosphorus loads to streams and St. Albans Bay. The modeling process provided a perceived neutral atmosphere for discussing water pollution issues that have historically been divisive and provided participants with greater understanding of local environmental issues and reduced historic conflict among actors. This study highlights the importance of considering the dynamics of social and technical factors in the use of modeling in natural resource planning processes. The approach led to stakeholder agreement about problems and potential solutions generated in the modeling process. As the process ended, local decision makers were moving forward to implement solutions identified to be most cost-effective.