The Policy Process: A Practical Guide for Natural Resources Professionals

This useful book is designed to teach natural resources professionals how to be more effective in solving conservation and environmental policy problems. Its presentation of basic concepts, case studies, and “real world concerns” provides a deeper understanding of the policy process and makes the book an invaluable aid for students and practitioners in such fields as wildlife biology, conservation biology, forestry, range management, ecosystem management, and sustainable development.

Susan G. Clark begins by describing the challenges faced by natural resources professionals. She then explains how the substance and process of policy analysis and decision making can be improved by using a policy sciences framework that takes into account biological, social, political, and institutional considerations. Finally she reflects on how issues of human rights and morality should affect natural resources management and policy analysis. The book is very user-friendly.

Tim W. Clark is professor (adjunct) of wildlife ecology and policy at the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and fellow at the Institution for Social and Policy Studies at Yale University. He is also president of the Northern Rockies Conservation Cooperative, Jackson, Wyoming.