Conservation and Conflict in Policymaking

Based on previous research, it is evident that stakeholders involved in Colorado water policy may define the word ‘conservation’ differently. The two potential definitions of this word carry vastly different connotations for policy outcomes: one promotes using less water while the other promotes diverting more water. It is, therefore, important to understand whether these definitions are pervasive throughout the water community in Colorado and whether there are demographic differences in who uses the different definitions. This research will also attempt to understand whether participants in one important stakeholder negotiation process in Colorado have actually encountered any difficulties with policy discussion groups based upon differing interpretations of the word ‘conservation’.