Exploring the vested interest perspective as it applies to public involvement in watershed management planning: Lessons from an Ohio watershed.

摘要

Due to shifts in U.S. environmental policy initiatives and improvements in scientific understanding of ecological systems, watershed management decisions have begun to rely increasingly more on input from the general public. Proponents of this decentralized approach adhere to broad assumptions regarding the benefits of public involvement, suggesting local participation can increase public acceptance of environmental responsibilities, improve perceived legitimacy of government agencies, and increase representation of more diverse public interests, leading to the enhancement of related environmental quality indicators. This research sought to critically examine these assumptions by taking a closer look at public motivations and public expectations for involvement.; A survey of 1190 residents of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) in eastern Ohio was used to evaluate public interest in participating in watershed management planning activities. Participants were asked to respond to a variety of questions designed to measure public attitudes towards MWCD practices, frequency of resource use, and level of awareness associated with watershed development planning options. A theoretical model representative of the vested interest perspective was constructed using influences from risk perception and social exchange theories and was used to explore research hypotheses. The implications of the study findings regarding the role of vested interests as factors facilitating participation are discussed. Results suggest that awareness of MWCD programs and activities may significantly influence participation. Analysis of the multivariate model suggests the need to further explore dimensions, indicators, and situational applicability of the vested interest concept.