Network Analysis as a Method for Understanding the Dynamics of Natural Resource Management in Rural Communities

This article presents a methodological approach to identifying local social networks and discusses how these networks may be drawn upon to build consensus or acceptance of natural resource management plans. The article also presents a method for identifying local network structures, including quantitative analysis of the influence of these structures on community behavior. Network analysis provides additional information collected from community surveys and public meetings. Use of this method can help scientists and natural resource managers develop plans that incorporate an array of social cliques within a natural resource management area.