Thinking outside the “water box” in the Detroit River Area of Concern

摘要: Abstract Despite sustained attention to water resource issues in the Great Lakes and around world, many problems remain unresolved because their sources or causes are external sector. Water governance often is based on water-centric problem framings that do not take sufficient account of role actors, institutions, drivers. Recognition this growing, but identifying connections addressing critical ones challenging for managers. Using a flexible diagnostic process, we explore factors relevant context Detroit River Area Concern (AOC) between Canada United States. We used two-case multiple case study research design, triangulating data gathered from 28 key informant interviews, review 58 documents, personal observations. find AOC program intentionally narrowly-focused achieve its objectives, perspective may fact be needed delisting as an AOC. However, there broader beyond those considered process affect river, including climate change, invasive species, population land use shifting public perceptions, unstable institutional environment. To address these challenges, practitioners should consider engaging more proactively with topic “life after delisting”, connecting strongly existing initiatives networks area help “boundary spanners.” Strengthening binational ties within AOC, clarifying AOCs large environment also important.