Session J
SESSION J
Managing the Boundary Between Science and Decision Making (Panel Discussion)*
Co-chairs:
Linda Silka and Karen Hutchins
* Please note this panel will be selected by the session chairs. No abstracts will be accepted for this session.
Description:
This session focuses on boundary spanning and explores the roles and processes involved in interfacing between distinct groups, in this case scientists and decision-makers, to help manage complex problems. Individuals and organizations who act as boundary spanners help to develop partnerships and improve collaboration by facilitating sustainable relationships, engaging complexity, and seeking to understand motives, roles and responsibilities of diverse actors and institutions. In this session, panelists will discuss the role of boundary spanning in successful (and unsuccessful) collaborations at the boundary of science and decision making, and the necessary skills, abilities and characteristics of effective boundary spanners.
Panelists:
- Cathy Elliott, Associate Extension Professor, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
- Jessica Jansujwicz, Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Sustainability Solutions Initiative, University of Maine
- Bridie McGreavy, Post-Doctoral Research Associate, New England Sustainability Consortium, University of Maine
- Chris Rector, Regional Representative for US Senator Angus King and Former ME State Senator
- Brenda Zollitsch, Consultant and Policy Analyst for the Association of State Wetland Managers