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 that local participation can increase public acceptance of environmental responsibilities, improve perceived legitimacy of government agencies, and increase representation of more diverse public interests, all leading to the enhancement of related environmental quality indicators. This book sought to critically examine these assumptions by taking a closer look at public motivations and public expectations for involvement. Results from this study indicate the need to further explore dimensions, indicators, and situational applicability of the vested interest concept.

Autorentext

Dr. Coreen Henry Cockerill is an assistant professor of communication arts at Wilmington College in Wilmington, Ohio. She received her PhD from The Ohio State University in 2006. Her scholarly interests involve research in the adoption of soil and water conservation technologies, environmental policy, and risk communication.