​Adaptive management is the scientific framework of record for most large-scale ecosystem restoration and species recovery programs in the United States. However, few examples exist of successful implementation of adaptive management in these programs. Headwaters is responsible for implementing a large-scale adaptive management program on the Platte River that has successfully completed at least one full loop of the six-step adaptive management cycle (Assess, Design, Implement, Monitor, Evaluate, Adjust). We understand the institutional and technical barriers that often hinder success. We excel at helping decision-makers and program partners understand large-scale adaptive management, organize around a common understanding of adaptive management, and develop and refine processes and structures to successfully implement and govern large-scale restoration programs.

Feature projects:

• PRRIP administration and Adaptive Management Plan implementation
• Middle Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program Adaptive Management Plan Version 1
• Expert review of governance and adaptive management in large-scale programs including the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program
• Developed an Adaptive Management Program Evaluation Framework

Our core competencies include:

• Adaptive management plan development and implementation
• Expertise in governance of adaptive management, species recovery, and ecosystem restoration programs
• Developing decision criteria and utilizing decision analysis tools
• Data synthesis and communicating scientific information to decision-makers for management decisions
• Technical facilitation, coordination, and leadership of federal, state, private, and NGO entities
• Experimental design, statistical design, and large scale research and monitoring
• Prioritization and sequencing of hypotheses
• Data collection, warehousing, and management
• Establishment and coordination of independent science panels and peer review