The purpose of the study was to explore a needs assessment method for suggesting target-based training interventions for managing conflict between the resource user/interest groups in Oregon's riparian zones. An instrument was developed and then validated by an expert panel. The questionnaire addressed three potential conflict management factors: multiple-use orientation, abundance philosophy, and conflict management styles. The instrument was distributed to members of the Oregon Water Improvement Coalition (OWIC) and to samples of its members' constituencies. Responses from the environmental, business, and professional groups were then compared to the OWIC responses as well as to each other's. Usable information was provided by 95% of the subjects (n=19) from OWIC and 55% of the subjects (n=158) from the constituencies. The OWIC and environmental group members were relatively less multiple resource use oriented than business and professional groups. The OWIC group was relatively more abundance philosophy oriented than professional and business groups. The professional and business groups in turn were significantly different than the environmentalist members. Both OWIC and professional groups were relatively more solution oriented than business and environmentalist under the riparian zones' resource use conflict situation. The instrument appeared to be sufficiently reliable and valid for its purpose. Future research should employ an interdisciplinary approach for improving the instrument by adding questions on facilitating communication between and among the interest groups. The utility of gathering information on the nonconfrontation and control conflict management styles and philosophy of land management factors deserves further study. / Graduation date: 1994