Lessons from the Application of Decision-support Tools in Participatory Management of the New Forest National Park, UK

摘要

This paper reports on participatory processes using agent-based simulation models which were employed in the New Forest National Park, UK, to facilitate greater appreciation of recreational impact on wildlife and in turn support proposed revisions in management. The models helped to foster a greater understanding of the need for visitor management, but some stakeholders seemed intent on discrediting them and opposing any changes to recreational management. The inherent complexity and lack of user-friendly application of the models meant that use of them was compromised. Opportunities should be sought to increase stakeholder involvement in the long-term collection of data and validation of models, and to embed participatory processes in existing decision-making institutions. Overall, the decision support tools detracted attention from opportunities for researching social learning: tools need to be part of a well-run deliberative learning process that addresses stakeholder representation and power relationships, knowledge validation, social learning and improved transparency. Copyright © 2cm John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.