It's Who You Know: Social Capital, Social Networks, and Watershed Groups

Abstract

Social capital, usually conceptualized as trusting relationships among members of a group, is often discussed as playing an important role in watershed groups. This study is grounded in the social networks conceptualization of social capital and seeks to identify how access to social resources aids in achieving watershed group outcomes. Three comparative cases along a rural–urban continuum in the Midwest were studied using qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 38) and meeting observation. The major finding of this research is that purposive selection of watershed-group participants to provide the greatest access to human capital and social network ties aids watershed groups in achieving outcomes. Guidance provided by state agencies to newly formed watershed groups should include suggestions for what types of network ties might be most beneficial for different objectives and how such ties can be sought out.

Keywords:

• collaboration
• social capital
• social networks
• watershed groups

Notes

^a Refers to how social capital or social networks were used in the study: authors may have examined other factors in their research.

Note. BMP, best management practice. SWCD, Soil and Water Conservation District; NRCS, Natural Resources Conservation Service.

^a Number in parentheses is total number in group at time of interviews.

^b Number in brackets is total number of meetings watershed group held.

Prokopy (2008) suggests careful thought be given before disclosing locations where collaborative management is being studied. All interview participants were guaranteed confidentiality, and thus locations will be kept anonymous.