Mediated modeling lessons for stakeholder engagement with science-based management: case study focused on Texas Gulf Coast (USA) estuaries

In this paper, we illustrate the use of mediated modeling and collaborative learning as a framework for good modeling practice. We describe facilitatation of local stakeholder involvement in developing policy recommendations for managing important estuaries along the Texas Gulf Coast. We designed a shared system of learning among local stakeholders and scientists, and via a series of workshops integrated that shared learning into a quantitative computer model. The quantitative model that emerged focused on estuary components of greatest interest to participants. Workshop participants initially developed a conceptual model of two adjacent Texas Gulf Coast (USA) estuaries, which are part of the Mission Aransas National Estuarine Reserve. We then formalized the conceptual model into a quantitative model representing the spatial-temporal dynamics of one of the estuaries. Engagement in this collaborative modeling process enabled workshop participants to understand more fully what is known, suggest ways to fill important knowledge gaps, and to experiment with the quantitative model to project possible futures for the selected estuary.