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In this article we present the results from an exploratory study conducted in the Wet Tropics in Australia. The study was initiated as part of a larger research program to support the development of a water quality improvement plan. Seven schools were invited to participate in this study. Students were asked to develop visions for the future of their local area. Results suggest that integrating a futures perspective into formal educational programs provides a mechanism to connect students with their local community and their local environment, and at the same time, encourages critical thinking and environmental citizenship beyond the classroom. (Contains 1 table and 4 figures.)

The value of public participation in water planning and management has been recognized in recent years; however, questions remain regarding which processes and factors contribute to appropriate participation. In this article I analyze the participatory processes employed to develop a water quality improvement plan (WQIP) for the Tully–Murray catchment in northeastern Australia using Smiley et al.'s (2010) analytical framework for appropriate public involvement. Three key lessons are drawn from this analysis, which are suggested to guide future research. First, to achieve participation by all relevant stakeholders, participation needs to be institutionalized. Second, the role and relevance of scientific and local knowledge and values for making decisions need clarification. Third, how conflicts, in particular conflicts over competing water uses and values, can be addressed and effectively dealt with deserves further research attention. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aboriginal participation in water resources decision making in Australia is similar when compared with Indigenous peoples' experiences in other common law countries such as the United States and Canada; however, this process has taken different paths. This paper provides a review of the literature detailing current legislative policies and practices and offers case studies to highlight and contrast Indigenous peoples' involvement in water resources planning and management in Australia and North America. Progress towards Aboriginal governance in water resources management in Australia has been slow and patchy. The U.S. and Canada have not developed consistent approaches in honoring water resources agreements or resolving Indigenous water rights issues either. Improving co-management opportunities may advance approaches to improve interjurisdictional watershed management and honor Indigenous participation. Lessons learned from this review and from case studies presented provide useful guidance for environmental managers aiming to develop collaborative approaches and co-management opportunities with Indigenous people for effective water resources management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]