Constructive local participation is crucial for the effective governance of protected areas (PAs) in Greece, for which NECCA is the competent authority. In the framework of the H2020 ARSINOE project, NECCA has conducted workshops in the area of Prespa Lakes, focusing on climate adaptation challenges in water resources management, attended by stakeholders representing all environmental, economic and social sectors related to water use. Common mental mappings of the issues discussed led to drafting innovation pathways that generated important insights into the complex interconnections between various domains, the areas where intervention is required, as well as local community equilibria. Although current work focuses on the Prespa Lakes case, its scope can be extended to address the needs of “the next day” for NECCA. Successful transfer of gained experience and knowledge can enhance the management of protected areas with similar ecosystem characteristics and challenges. These methods could be used both for the Local Management Committees (LMCs) as well as the informal engagement of local stakeholders, ensuring regular monitoring and input to common expectations for shaping climate resilience.