GEOLOGY AND PUBLIC POLICY: CHALLENGES AT THE STATE LEVEL

Speaking from my experience as a State Geologist I can assure you that geologic issues such as geologic hazards, natural resource conflicts, and the geologic influence on water issues are frequently overlooked or ignored when a state policy is emplaced. Why is that? And how do we overcome it?

Basic misunderstanding of the science of geology and geologic processes. Problem: Geology and geologic processes are so basic and intrinsic to all environments and natural resources that it is frequently taken for granted, or assumed to have already been incorporated in other research.

Solution: Encourage other natural resource-oriented organizations to consult geologists when setting their research and policy strategies. Encourage decision makers to participate in hands-on geologic issues. Market your science.

The research and data take too long to collect, review, and publish. Problem: Geologic characterization and research takes time. All too often a natural resource or land use issue is at the boiling point before the scientists are called. Expectations of instant science that cannot be delivered can erode decision maker confidence in scientists.

Solution: Geologists should get involved in state and local issues, direct research to where geologic information can make a difference. Strategize your research, build stakeholder relationships early.

Policy decision makers deal in risk, not characterization. Problem: Policy is based on affect not effect. This basic difference between describing the geologic process (science) and developing a response to risk (policy) can be perceived as insurmountable.

Solution: Policy makers need scientists to go that extra step to devote research to where it matters and to present findings in risk oriented formats. There is a cross-over into social geography that geologists can not ignore. Integrate your science, answer questions that matter to people in a way they can understand.

Decision makers are uncomfortable with scientific uncertainty when dealing with issues that require definitive actions. Problem: In any science multiple hypotheses abound. While scientific uncertainty is healthy for research it can scare away decision makers and for good reason.

Solution: Be forthright about a scientific uncertainty and take the time to explain the reasons for it. Reach out and communicate.