Applying a mediated negotiation framework to integrated coastal zone management

Conflict is intrinsic to coastal zone management, yet relatively few peer-r eviewed studies have examined how coastal managers might apply conflict res olution processes in the coastal zone management (CZM) context. The authors believe that many of these disputes can be addressed by using a structured mediation model that involves face-to face negotiation with a broad range of stakeholders to build consensus-based agreements for integrated coastal zone management (ICZM). To explore this further, the article examines four questions. First, it examines how CZM literature characterizes conflict and conflict resolution. Second, it looks at how essential principles from the field of alternative dispute resolution and environmental mediation can be best employed in the ICZM context. In particular, it explores the various elements of a stepwise agreement building model, a mediated negotiation pro cess model the authors use in practice that bases its success on a foundati on of four principles: representation, participation, legitimacy, and accou ntability. Next, it details three essential tools used in this process, sta keholder analysis, joint fact-finding, and single-text negotiation, that th e authors believe to be promising for developing and adopting stable, well- informed, and implementable agreements for ICZM. Finally, the article exami nes how these structuring principles and process strategies have been used in two recent case studies regarding the management of the San Francisco es tuary and its tributaries.