Great Lakes Invasive Crayfish – Results of a Stakeholder Needs Assessment Using the Delphi Method

Session: 03. - Science and Policy for Management of Invasive Crayfish

Adam Landon, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research institute, University of Illinois, [email protected]
Greg Hitzroth, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois , [email protected]
Craig Miller, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, [email protected]
Patrice Charlebois, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, [email protected]

Abstract

Management of invasive crayfish affects a variety of Great Lakes stakeholders including resource managers, commercial interests, and non-governmental organizations. Therefore, to be effective, any management strategy should incorporate the range of stakeholder needs. To enable this, we conducted a needs assessment of the Great Lakes Invasive Crayfish Collaborative (ICC) membership using the Delphi method. The ICC was developed with funding from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to advance management of invasive crayfish in the Great Lakes, and its members are self-identified stakeholders. The Delphi method was first conceived as a means to reduce uncertainty in market forecasts using expert opinion, but has seen widespread adoption in a number of fields. We used it to identify communication and governance preferences of the ICC, but more importantly to help establish priorities for invasive crayfish research, outreach, and management in the Great Lakes. This method combined with corroboration via an in-person workshop resulted in an efficient identification of these priorities. Use of this method in natural resource management is relatively novel, but our results suggest that it can be a powerful tool for the future.

1. Keyword
crustaceans

2. Keyword
exotic species

3. Keyword
biological invasions

4. Additional Keyword
social science