Developing and implementing a human wellbeing framework for restoration planning in the Puget Sound

We present a study on the development of human wellbeing indicators for Washington State’s ecosystem recovery agency. Over two years, we engaged stakeholders, policymakers, and social scientists in the identification,... [ view full abstract ]

We present a study on the development of human wellbeing indicators for Washington State’s ecosystem recovery agency. Over two years, we engaged stakeholders, policymakers, and social scientists in the identification, modification, and prioritization of wellbeing indicators that were adopted by the agency for biennual monitoring and strategic planning. We conducted 61 interviews with diverse stakeholders, reviewed 91 documents associated community values and priorities, and held 8 workshops to modify and prioritize indicators among local stakeholders. Indicators were then rated by social scientists and regional policymakers, resulting in 15 new indicators of human wellbeing that were broadly accepted and important to all audiences. These indicators have been formally adopted by the state agency and are used for restoration monitoring and planning.