The social side of nonpoint source management: Using social indicators to build effective NPS programs

Abstract

"Working with land owners and managers to find effective and practical solutions to water quality problems is crucial to achieving environmental goals. Social indicators provide information about the social context, awareness, attitudes, capacities, constraints, and behaviors in a watershed or project area. Using social indicators can help conservation professionals understand and target audiences, select effective interventions, and evaluate their impacts. This interactive workshop will 1) provide an overview of social indicators for nonpoint source (NPS) projects, 2) describe how indicators are being used in Upper Great Lakes states for NPS planning and evaluation, 3) guide workshop participants through the process for developing and applying social indicators in their own NPS management efforts, and 4) provide participants with tools and reference materials to support their work at home." (Description from conference website)