The SD-Qu'Appelle was used in real-time engagement of stakeholders in model simulations to demonstrate and explore the potential effects of different BMPs in mitigating water pollution. A System Dynamics (SD) approach was employed to develop a transparent and user-friendly water quality model, SD-Qu'Appelle, to simulate nutrient loads in the region before and after implementation of stakeholder identified BMPs. Q-methodology was used to understand viewpoints of stakeholders, namely agricultural producers (annual croppers, cattle producers, mixed farmers) and cottage owners, regarding a range of agricultural Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) that can improve water quality, and to identify their preferred BMPs. The framework was applied to the Qu'Appelle River Basin, Saskatchewan, Canada. This study proposes a framework to understand and incorporate stakeholders' viewpoints into water quality modeling and management. The dynamics of agricultural impacts on water quality are complex and stem from the decisions and activities of multiple stakeholders, often with diverse business plans, values, and attitudes towards practices that can improve water quality.
Agricultural activities are typically the largest non-point source of water pollution. Water quality is increasingly at risk due to nutrient pollution entering river systems from cities, industrial zones and agricultural areas.
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