A decision support system for the implementation of the Water Framework Directive in the Netherlands: Process,validity and useful information

This paper discusses the development and use of the first version of the WFD Explorer (WFDE), a decision support system (DSS) for the implementation of the Water Framework Directive in the Netherlands. The paper's aim is to increase our understanding of the development process of DSSs and the impact the development process has on the perceived validity and usefulness of the DSS. In other words, whether the DSS is seen as representing reality correctly and as fit for purpose and user-friendly. Contrary to the expectations, the WFDE was not used much. Tensions in the development process over the intended users, the level of analysis, the level of ambition and the type of expertise to be included have contributed to doubts over its usefulness and validity. These tensions reflect general tensions in river basin management: different actors will prefer different approaches, and none of these is objectively the best. Whereas guidelines for the development of DSSs can increase awareness of these tensions, resolving these tensions is beyond the power of the developers to control. Guidelines have their use, but also their limitations, simply because they are general and circumstances differ from case to case.     

Experiences with restoration of inland freshwater wetlands in the Netherlands: lessons for science and policy-making

The past decade has seen important changes in the approach to water management issues in the Netherlands. Urban development, recreational demands, agriculture, nature conservation and other space demanding functions compete with water management objectives in their claims for space. An analysis of some recent water management projects illustrates that the implementation of the new water management approach is not always easy. Catchment-based multifunctional projects encounter major constraints. These constraints are: 1) national goals versus local constraints; 2) limited sense of urgency; 3) lack of institutional coordination in the water management community; 4) unclear views over nature conservation, and; 5) limited understanding of wetland functioning in relation to flood risk management. We promote platforms for collaborative planning as a way to improve stakeholder participation in early stages of decision-making. Negotiation and mediation support tools can enable stakeholders and mediators to formulate the problems that need to be addressed more effectively. Early involvement of stakeholders in the planning process is almost a condition for successful implementation; however, it is no guarantee of success, and not all conflicts can be solved. Therefore assessment of the costs and benefits of different parties is important for compensation schemes to gain broad social acceptance.