Adaptive Management as an Effective Strategy: Interdisciplinary Perceptions for Natural Resources Management

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Environmental Management
• Conservation Science

Background:

• Adaptive management is a recognized natural resource strategy, yet empirical evidence of its superiority over traditional methods is scarce.
• Existing research on adaptive management effectiveness relies heavily on social perceptions, primarily from US federal employees, limiting broader insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To expand the understanding of perceived adaptive management effectiveness by including diverse disciplines, professional backgrounds, and geographic origins.
• To compare the perspectives of adaptive management scholars (without implementation experience) and practitioners (with implementation experience).

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire assessed factors influencing effective management and perceptions of adaptive management strategies.
• Respondents utilized a continuum of adaptive and traditional management strategies to indicate perceived effectiveness.
• Analysis correlated responses with adaptive management experience rather than disciplinary or regional affiliations.

Main Results:

• Identified characteristics for effective management (strategies, stakeholders, barriers) largely aligned with adaptive management principles.
• Perceptions of adaptive management effectiveness varied significantly between scholars and practitioners.
• Experience type, not discipline or region, was the key factor influencing responses.

Conclusions:

• Practitioners highlighted adaptive management's long-term benefits, while scholars underscored the critical role of stakeholder engagement.
• Enhanced communication between adaptive management scholars and practitioners can foster interdisciplinary learning and improve resource management outcomes.