title: Co-management of natural resources: a proposed framework.
abstract: Co-management acknowledges pragmatic developments and progression of institutional choice theories in natural resource management. This innovative concept embraces a pluralistic management approach based on the principle of subsidiarity and creates opportunities for the reconciliation of competitive property claims. This article reviews definitions of co-management, distinguishes it from other property rights regimes, and develops an organizational structure of the major elements involved. Synthesis of both experiences and literature leads to the development of a conceptual framework. Co-management is structured in terms of context, components, and linking mechanisms. In concert, these elements offer insight into the practice of co-management, address the shortcomings of institutional theories, and respond to critical issues raised in related literature. The framework contributes to natural resource management by acting as a means of identification and evaluation for such arrangements, as well as a systematic guide for future inquiries.
authors.affiliation: Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, 500 Glenridge Avenue, St. Catharines, ON, Canada. rplummer@brocku.ca
authors.forename: Ryan
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Plummer
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Fitzgibbon
mesh_terms: D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources / Q000191:economics*; D004777:Environment; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010067:Ownership; D011050:Policy Making