Ecosystem Planning in Florida

This study was conducted in recognition of the shortcomings associated with ecosystem management in the United States and the general lack of empirical research in addressing these problems. Its focus is on how local communities can effectively address ecosystem level problems through land use planning frameworks. While ecosystem approaches to management take place at a variety of geographical scales and jurisdictional levels, this work concentrates almost exclusively on the role of local jurisdictions comprised of a mosaic of private and public land ownership. Understanding the degree to which local communities incorporate the principles of ecosystem management into their plans and planning processes provides important insights into how human communities, ecosystems, and their components can be strategically managed in the future.

The study seeks to answer the following research questions:
1) What are the main components of or best practices for a sound ecosystem management plan at the local level;
2) Which state-mandated comprehensive plans are most geared to ecosystem management and why;
3) What are the factors and processes influencing the quality of comprehensive plans with regard to ecological management;
4) What motivates the implementation of plans and policies over the long term; and
5) How can plans, planning processes, and the state growth management programs that mandate them be improved to enhance ecosystem management?

These research questions are addressed using a variety of analytical techniques, including multivariate and spatial regression analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), mail and telephone surveys, and site visits. In this way, the project examines the role local jurisdictions can play in managing broader ecological systems at a level of detail that has never been done previously.

Articles:

Brody, S.D., Highfield, W. & Carrasco, V. (2004). Measuring the Collective Capabilities of Local Jurisdictions to Manage Ecosystems in Southern Florida. Journal of Landscape and Urban Planning 69(1): 33-50.

Brody, S.D. (2003). Implementing the Principles of Ecosystem Management Through Local Land Use Planning. Population and Environment 24(6): 511-540.

Brody, S.D. (2003). Examining the role of Resource-Based Industries In Ecosystem Approaches to Management: An Evaluation of Comprehensive Plans In Florida. Journal of Society and Natural Resources 16(7): 625-641.

Brody, S.D. (2003). Measuring the Effects of Stakeholder Participation on the Quality of Local Plans Based on the Principles of Collaborative Ecosystem Management. Journal of Planning and Education Research 22(4): 107-119.

Brody, S.D. (2003). Examining the Effects of Biodiversity on the Ability of Local Plans to Manage Ecological Systems. Journal of Environmental Planning and Management 46(6): 733-754.

Brody, S.D., Carassco, V. & Highfield, W. (2003). Evaluating Ecosystem Management Capabilities at the Local Level in Florida: Identifying Policy Gaps Using Geographic Information Systems. Environmental Management 32(6): 661-681.