Increased participation in decision-making has been identified as crucial in order to develop sustainable societies. The Water Framework Directive aims to increase water quality in the European Union. However, measures for water management can have a negative effect on cultural values. The Swedish National Heritage Board describes that over 10 000 cultural sites near watercourses are in danger due to intended water restorations. One of these sites is the millpond in Järle, were proposed changes have caused conflicts to arise between stakeholders. Previous research argue that classical top-down planning is not fit to solve these problems, and that we must stop looking for the best solutions and instead create joint ones. By operationalising Innes and Boohers collaborative rationality framework, DIAD, this thesis shed light on how collaboration is utilized to solve complex situations. The results show that the process have not utilized the possibilities for collaboration, and that current policies do not provide incitements for stakeholders to engage in genuine dialogue. Even though consultations are part of the process, stakeholders are involved too little and too late. More research is needed in order to deepen our understanding concerning how institutional settings can become more adaptable, and thus stimulate reciprocity.