EXPANDING THE IMPACT OF SCIENCE -- COMMUNICATING WITH COMMUNITIES AND CUSTOMERS

The USGS' traditional emphasis on science excellence and science leadership has resulted in considerable societal impact as the USGS has communicated unbiased scientific information to support critical decisions and problem solving. Whether the issues relate to water quality and quantity, to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, or floods, or to energy, mineral, and biological resources, the USGS has a well-documented record of delivering important scientific information in support of policy and management decisions.

In recent years, the needs for science information have changed as technology and the framework for decisions have evolved. Decisions have become more decentralized with an increased emphasis on local and citizen involvement. Information accessibility and analytical capability have increased dramatically, especially for local decision makers. Information that a few years ago was accessible only to a select few can now be obtained easily by many through the Internet. In addition, the development and institutionalization of geographic information and decision support systems has greatly expanded the potential use and value of science information integrated with economic, social, cultural, and political factors.

Science information properly connected to its societal context represents an important component of the decision process. The challenge is to constantly refine the scientist-decision maker interface so that needed information is available, useful, understandable, and timely. To facilitate this, the USGS is developing a focused effort to improve and expand the use of science information to inform and support decisions throughout our society. We recognize that science information is only one of many factors that need to be considered. Social, economic, political, and cultural issues all play key roles in societal decisions. To achieve the goal of facilitating the enhanced use and value of USGS science information, the USGS is developing methods, tools, and techniques to build explicit linkages between science information and relevant economic, social, political, and cultural factors.