In this chapter we survey recent research that utilizes the measures and techniques of social network analysis (SNA) to explain socio-ecological outcomes. The chapter focuses on the role of key characteristics of networks – including density and fragmentation, bonding and bridging social capital, brokerage and leadership – in promoting adaptive governance and co-management, and in turn, successful environmental management outcomes. We argue that network structures affect the ability of actors to coordinate their behavior, cooperate with one another, share information, and adapt their behavior to new circumstances. We conclude by discussing limitations and future directions for research, drawing attention to the need for more work integrating ecological and social networks, comparative social network analysis, and analyses of network formation and evolution. 1 We thank Alex Montgomery for valuable comments on an earlier draft of this chapter. The usual caveats apply.