Adopting an ecosystem approach: Local variability in remedial action planning

Through the 1970s and 1980s Great Lakes scientists advocated adoption of an "ecosystem approach" as a framework for water quality policy, including development of remedial action plans (RAPs) for the 43 areas of concern in the Great Lakes basin. RAPs are developed by state and provincial environmental or resource agencies, often in consultation with local stakeholder or citizen advisory committees. The International Joint Commission's guidelines for adopting an ecosystem-based approach describe the need for more integrative conceptual frameworks, interdisciplinary information, and flexible institutional arrangements. This article describes adoption of an ecosystem approach by lead agencies in two RAPs, where adoption was shaped by a constellation of organizational differences and contextual variables. in both, a community-based RAP committee played an important role.