ncrn approach to communicating science information

NCRN Approach to Communicating Science Information

Geoff Sanders, Data Manager National Capital Region

Network

2009 Data Management Meeting Tucson, Arizona

Our “Approach”• An approach but no plan: The NCRN has an

approach or strategy geared to communicating scientific information but does not currently have a communication plan.

• Started early on: Started to develop communication ideas and relationships with partners before the collection of monitoring data began (~2005).

• Developed partnerships: Partnered with the regional learning center (UERLA) and the Integration and Application Network from the Univ. of Maryland to develop a suite of communication products.

• Product diversity: Developed a diversity of products for a variety of audiences.

Communication Products

• Photo Book• Resource Fact

Sheets• Park Posters• Vital Signs

Book

• NPS Report Series• Scientific

Journals

• Web Data Portal• Vital Signs Resource

Briefs

Technical

General

Values

Stressors

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

APPROACH: Visual

APPROACH: Conceptual

Ecosystem patternand process

0.560.56

0.310.31

0.250.25

---6.0 ≥ X ≤

8.536.56 ug/L

IBI>3------

---------

IBI>3------

<10 deer/sq km---

>10% impervious---

---0.920.040.52------

---------

0.62------0---

0---

Air qualityand climate

0.310.318 ppm/8 hr

---15 ug/m-3

------

0.28---0.33------

Category Vital SignThreshold eg EPA

Attainment % of time

Category Score

ParkScorePark

APPROACH: Interpretable and Synthesized

• Provides an overview of the NCRN Monitoring Program and vital signs.

• Describes the approach of using conceptual diagrams to convey information.

• Provides some perspective on regional issues: values and stressors for network parks.

• Portrays each park individually with a customized conceptual diagram

Regional Vital Signs Booklet

Poster Series

NCRN Web Data Portal

NCRN Web Data Portal

NCRN Web Data Portal

NCRN Web Data Portal

Other Ways to Communicate

Take Home Messages• Start Early. We benefited greatly by

establishing a communication partnership and developing a basic suite of products early on.

• Broad range of products applicable for different audiences and situations.

• Stakeholder involvement. Get input for stakeholders (park managers).

Questions to Ask

How do we gauge success?