Research

My research interests are founded on the belief that approaches to address sustainable natural resources management must explicitly recognize that ecosystems and their components are not isolated elements, but are integrated in social-ecological systems with complex interactions between human decisions and ecosystem functioning. Because of these linkages, such systems are more than merely the sum of their parts, but rather Gestalt entities whose nature and structure is defined by the interactions between components. My research uses an integrative, transdisciplinary approach to explore the dynamics of social and ecological change in order to preserve the beauty and integrity of landscapes where human aspirations and natural functions are inextricably linked by the flows of water.

My dissertation research involves participatory watershed modeling, scenario development, and an exploration of resilience in the context of the Cypress Creek watershed near Wimberley, Texas. The Cypress Creek watershed, like many others near large urban centers, is experiencing increasing pressure on water resources as the urban-development envelope expands into previously minimally developed areas.  The goal of this project is to develop a Decision Support System (DSS) that empowers decision makers with sound, understandable science to assist in solving complex problems, such as those faced by local planners, managers, and stakeholders wishing to allow for economic growth, while preserving water quality and protecting the local environment.  The DSS will be developed in collaboration with Cypress Creek stakeholders for the analysis of future scenarios, such as economic development, land-use change, or regulatory change. Land-use, water consumption, and climate change scenarios will be generated to explore the concept of social-ecological resilience and provide a framework for future sustainable development in the watershed.