Implementing an applied human dimensions facilitated workshop approach

Our human dimensions in wildlife resource management field has grown from its beginnings studying motivations of hunters and describing behaviors to applying theories and predicting behaviors. In fact, our research has become... [ view full abstract ]

Our human dimensions in wildlife resource management field has grown from its beginnings studying motivations of hunters and describing behaviors to applying theories and predicting behaviors. In fact, our research has become academically recognized and we could be criticized, like we use to say about biologists who studied only animals, that many HD researchers study people, and perhaps have forgotten that conservation is only achieved through working with people. HD research provides insights on wildlife issues to managers but managers require mechanisms to solve issues. In those rare cases where we choose to "engage" the public, our traditional tools often fail to get diverse interest groups to consensus and conflicts resolved. Perhaps "engaging the public" is not what we  really need if we wish to achieve solutions, we in fact must build strong relationships and teams to solve todays wildlife challenges.

The applied human dimensions facilitated workshop approach (AHDFWA) continues to provide examples of success stories getting diverse interest groups to agree on controversial national large carnivore management plans in various parts of Europe, resolve urban biodiversity issues between Palestinian and Israeli authorities, and most recently bring diverse interest groups to agree on an Alaska wood bison reintroduction project and address caribou issues in Canada's north. The AHDFWA builds relationships with all groups, encourages feedback from individual team members back to their constituencies and where employed for the last 25 years worldwide, 100% consensus has been reached by the author.

The key characteristics of the AHDFWA are explained and demonstrated using a variety of examples, but particularly caribou issues with Canada's First Nations, who have always lived with wildlife. Key components to the approach focus on working down the planning pyramid from the vision to the measurable targets. I discuss the power of drawing images to illustrate a vision and taking the time to effectively move beyond "engagement" to a "committed relationship" of trust to achieve consensus and conservation successes. Other key components of the AHDFWA include strong feedback, clear, defined roles, discussions rules and a visual style of facilitation that inspires participants to work hard and find solutions.