Collaborative management of hydrological ecosystem services: a multilevel social network analysis of a Mexican watershed

Collaborative management of hydrological ecosystem services (HES) is crucial for their conservation and involves diverse stakeholders at three levels: environmental and land-use management (ELM), harvesting and physical access (HPA), and appropriation and appreciation (AA). This study analyzes collaborative networks within and between these levels in the Copalita-Huatulco watershed, Mexico, using a monoplex and multiplex social network approach to understand stakeholder interactions. Results indicate that the ELM and AA networks are diverse and polycentric, with NGOs occupying an influential role. In contrast, the HPA network is centralized and dominated by government stakeholders. From a multiplex perspective, non-local stakeholders, such as government agencies, have greater coordination potential, while locals, such as NGOs and communities, are multiplex knowledge brokers. The establishment of governance schemes should prioritize the promotion of stakeholders’ diversity among actors, polycentricity, and empowered decision-making. Additionally, fostering stronger relationships and interconnectedness among networks is crucial to facilitating collaboration and adaptability in the HES management. This study contributes to the understanding of collaborative management of HES and offers recommendations to improve their effectiveness, sustainability, and resilience.