Account for a wide range of benefits and potential trade-offs associated with nature-based solutions (Pacific Institute)

Nature-based solutions (NBS) offer a broad range of benefits, including improved water quantity and quality, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity protection. However, these solutions may also have trade-offs (negative or unintended impacts) such as displacing land users or replacing diverse ecosystems …

Adapt engagement approach depending on unique stakeholder needs and interests (Pacific Institute)

Different types of partners and stakeholders need different forms of engagement. Partners differ in their level of involvement – are they a core partner, a secondary partner, or a benefactor? Partner type also affects engagement strategies, whether the partner belongs …

Analyze the systems within which your nature-based solution take place to minimize risk and optimize benefits (Pacific Institute)

Nature-based solutions (NBS) take place within complex, dynamic, and self-organizing socio-ecological systems. These include biophysical, economic, political, and cultural systems. For example, a forest restoration project interacts with the forest ecology, hydrology, local communities, and regional businesses. The project also …

Assess and bring in required technical skills to ensure project success (Pacific Institute)

Depending on the project context, a water stewardship project may require specific technical skills beyond the skills already held by project partners. This is especially likely if the project falls outside the traditional realm of typical water resources management familiar …

A strong partnership based on trust is important for project implementation (Pacific Institute)

A strong partnership based on trust is important for project implementation and sustained success. Fostering local ownership and support for the partnership creates trust amongst project proponents and beneficiaries. A resilient, trust-based partnership can better address any challenges that arise …

Avoid partners dependency in initiative design (Pacific Institute)

Partner dependency causes the outcome of a partnership to rest on a single institution, threatening the long-term sustainability of the initiative. Programmes should be designed from a systemic perspective that includes multiple strategic partners. At a practical design level, the …

Balance trade-offs between a community approach versus external project implementation (Pacific Institute)

When implementing a project, consider whether to hire external contractors or engage the local community to do the work. If the project must occur quickly due to changing conditions, a professional external contractor may be best able to implement the …

Clearly define roles and responsibilities for all partners (Pacific Institute)

Clearly define roles for each member of the partnership to ensure stakeholders and partners do not get confused regarding the partnership process. Roles are best defined through both verbal confirmation during stakeholder workshops and the written partnership memorandum of understanding.

Consider a balance of different funding sources when preparing for and maintaining projects (Pacific Institute)

Consider a balance of different funding sources when initiating and maintaining projects. Admittedly, without confirmed funding, it may be difficult to convince partners to come on board. However, the type and distribution of funding can impact the longer-term sustainability and …

Coordinate across regions to address water challenges that cross administrative borders (Pacific Institute)

Water challenges, even when experienced locally, often require solutions that address a greater catchment area. If a project is implemented locally, it may be unable to address the source of the problem. When scoping a project, anticipate both the hydrological …