Ecosystem-based governance in the Great Bay watershed: Is a regional integrated adaptable approach possible

The Great Bay ecosystem has been vital for human well-beings for over 5,000 years. The "Live Free or Die" motto keeps the fires of independence and the American Experience burning bright. Unprecedented population growth, fragmented governance and rapid development have degraded the ecosystems of the "Crown Jewel of the Seacoast". This study uses the policy science analytic framework to model the Problem Orientation, Social Process, and Decision Process characteristics representative of an ideal ecosystem-based approach to governance. The model analyzes the current governance and compares it to an ideal approach. Through numerous interviews and observations within the watershed, the study concludes that in the current state the transition towards an ecosystem-based approach would be exceedingly difficult. This shift will require significant public participation that understands the threats to human health and demanding change in governance. An overarching organization could coordinate the socioecological interests and adapt policies and management practices.