Decision support systems (DSSs) have been utilized extensively to enhance problem-framing, structure decisions around complex natural resource issues, increase learning, and enrich group collaboration. However, these tools are rarely evaluated for their actual impact on decision-making. Challenges commonly encountered by developers include low rates of adoption, limited end-user participation in DSS development, and issues with securing long-term maintenance. This research explores the extent to which four DSSs have been successfully deployed to facilitate decision-making and support agricultural conservation within the North Central Region of the U.S. The Agricultural Conservation Planning Framework, the Daily Erosion Project, the Great Lakes Watershed Management System, and the Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast have been utilized in multiple states to improve land management and conservation.Conducting interviews with both developers and end-users of these systems, I demonstrated that these DSSs are used to improve conservation planning, enable performance-based conservation, prioritize outreach activities, and enhance farmer engagement. However, adoption has been mixed. Some DSSs are embedded within routine planning practices and others indicate few users. Lack of consistent funding and the potential to lose key personnel that either possess the technical knowledge or social influence to maintain and promote the system threaten DSS sustainability. Despite challenges, the process of developing and deploying DSSs provided value to stakeholders, fostering collaboration among diverse sets of organizations.
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