Integrated resource management in the Fraser River estuary: Stakeholder's perceptions of the state of the river and program influence

The use of integrated planning in water resources is becoming common across North America. In Canada, agencies at all levels have cooperated in the creation of the Fraser River Estuary Management Program (FREMP), an integrated resource management (IRM) approach to diverse use demands and environmental problems in an urban estuary. While the state of environmental quality has improved since the program's creation, its impact has been indirect and difficult to measure. The results of a survey of stakeholders' views on environmental quality, program impact, and the need for change to the FREMP's structure indicate a dichotomous view of program success. Those most removed from participation in decision-making processes are more likely to be critical of the approach to integration and advocate program change. While the FREMP embodies the basic characteristics of IRM, it has displayed mixed success; participation of nongovernment interests ts weak, and the implementation of integrated planning has been stow. The study illustrates some of the issues in program evaluation measuring policy success, and implementing integrated conservation programs.