Stakeholder participation is not based on regulatory requirement. Rather, the statewide framework depends on its ability to successfully promote collaboration based on complementary objectives and cost-effectiveness. The first step is to begin scoping the configuration for a framework in your state. Managers can commit to support new functional relationships. Agencies will need to recognize resource protection and restoration priorities and opportunities and respond accordingly to achieve buy-in and participation of local partners that want management efforts tied to tangible natural resource benefits.
Local partners can implement regional-scale watershed planning and implementation programs.
Local governments can initiate local or regional watershed forums that operate in tandem with a statewide framework. Agency stakeholders can revise guidance to encourage statewide watershed management framework development. All agency stakeholders should review guidance or policies that restrict or impede stakeholder participation or any other aspect of watershed management framework development and implementation. Identifying areas where flexibility can be enhanced will likely encourage others to support the approach. These steps can serve as catalysts for more detailed framework development.