It should be noted that this handbook will not present a ‘one size fits all’ or
blueprint process to co-management. It will also not present step-by-step
procedures to co-management. This is not possible as there are as many
approaches to co-management as there are communities. Each situation in
which co-management may be used is different and will require a unique
response. Rather, this handbook will present a process which is ‘generic’ in
that it will provide the handbook user with a place to start and with an
understanding of how ‘a’ process works and the variety of activities and
methods than can be used to plan and implement co-management. This
handbook will serve as a source of information for the practical planning and
implementation of co-management at the community level. The process
presented is meant to be ‘a’ process that should be adapted to the local
situation. Each co-management activity and method will be covered in enough
detail to allow the handbook user to understand and use it. However, it would
be impossible to completely address in depth each activity and method in this
publication. References and internet links will be provided for the user to
obtain additional information.