Introduction to the Special Issue “The Intersection of Society and Watershed Science”

Abstract

Despite significant advances in watershed science and technology, water availability, water quality, and water related health problems remain a significant worldwide concern [1]. While the concept of watershed-scale management to address these concerns remains intact, most scientists recognize that application of natural science concepts and advanced technologies are not sufficient to adequately address watershed-scale water management issues. There is a significant need for a paradigm shift, i.e., namely increased public interaction and participation in watershed management and decision-making. The effective application of an integrated approach requires developing new scientific concepts on integration of natural and social sciences. In recent years, concepts, such as integrated watershed management and/or holistic approaches to water resource management, have been widely promoted (e.g., [2–6]). [...]