How Sociopolitical Histories and Lifeways Impact the Formation of ‘Good Governance’ in the Restoration of Anadromous Fish in the Columbia River Basin

Abstract

Despite decades of restoration efforts in the U.S. Columbia River Basin (CRB), recovery of anadromous fish remains elusive. Regional stakeholder conflicts about objectives for fish restoration complicate efforts to collaboratively develop successful governance systems. While ecological research and solutions have been primary considerations for restoration initiatives, much of the literature recognizes social complexities as the root of the problem. This research employs a qualitative approach that illuminates how sociopolitical histories and lifeways underpin stakeholders’ divergent objectives that challenge the formation of good governance in the CRB. We show how sociopolitical histories and lifeways reproduce a lack of representation of tribal members in leadership which inhibits the formation of good governance. This has significant implications for the process and outcomes of participatory governance and how governance processes can meaningfully integrate diverse voices in an intentional way to facilitate a just and equitable outcome for humans and ecosystems.