Scenario analysis: An integrative and effective method for bridging disciplines and achieving a thriving Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin

The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin community is challenged in achieving a basin that thrives ecologically, economically and socially. Although natural science, social science, policy, and law literatures offer insight into understanding and developing policies for the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin, these literatures are constructed in disciplinary silos. Scenario analysis supports an approach that transcends disciplines and embraces uncertainty. It facilitates dialogue among stakeholders and adds depth and diversity to the science-policy interface. We provide evidence for why scenario analysis is effective, why it was used in the Great Lakes Futures Project, and how its results can be used to complement and strengthen interdisciplinary scholarship and current management within the basin.