DEFINING PERCEPTIONS OF WATERSHED MANAGEMENT IN A GREAT PLAINS AND IN AN ANDEAN WATERSHED

Abstract

The goal of this thesis project was to explore the perception groups related to watershed management in a Great Plains and in an Andean Watershed. It is essential for watershed stakeholders to acknowledge that there are different perceptions about watershed management among themselves. The Q methodology is an innovative and dynamic interview method that uses qualitative and quantitative data to interpret participants' perceptions. In Kansas, the stakeholder group displayed three perception groups: hands-on rural residents; detail oriented urban and suburban residents; and pro data collection and conservation of natural functions government official. The Andean watershed also displayed three perception groups: Manizales needs proactive measures to prepare for future landslide events; it was not waters of Manizales, it was nature; and preventing the incrimination of specific institutions. A better understanding of the contrasting perceptions of individuals making up both of these stakeholder groups can substantially improve water resource management.