Grantee Research Project Results
Development and evaluation of multiple-objective decision-making methods for watershed management planning
Citation:
Lamy F, Bolte J, Santelmann M, Smith C. Development and evaluation of multiple-objective decision-making methods for watershed management planning. Journal of the American Water Resources Association 2002;38(2):517-529.
Abstract:
Making decisions for environmental management is a complex task due to the multiplicity and diversity of technological choices. Furthermore, the exploitation of natural resources and the preservation of the natural environment imply objectives that are often in conflict within a sustainable development paradigm. Managers and other decision makers require techniques to assist them in understanding strategic decision making. This paper illustrates the use of a multiple-objective decision-making methodology and an integrative geographical information system-based decision-making tool developed to help watershed councils prioritize and evaluate restoration activities at the watershed level. Both were developed through a multidisciplinary approach. The decision-making tool is being applied in two watersheds of Oregon's Willamette River Basin. The results suggest that multiple-objective methods can provide a valuable tool in analyzing complex watershed management issues.The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.