Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2008MI115B

Information Dissemination and Technology Transfer Training Programs

Institute: Michigan
Year Established: 2008 Start Date: 2008-03-01 End Date: 2009-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $25,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $50,346

Principal Investigators: Lois Wolfson

Project Summary: Problem and Research Objective:
In todays society where information is easily and readily accessible over the internet, it is critical that science-based information be made available to the general public and specific user groups. With a reputation for dependable and accurate information, Universities must continue to provide current, reliable, nonbiased and readily transferable information to a wide audience in formats that are easily understood either via the web or in alternate formats. Thus, an effective information dissemination program is essential for transferring research-based information to a wide and often diverse audience and offering alternative solutions to problems being assessed. To address these needs, the Institute of Water Research (IWR) has developed and expanded upon its information dissemination and training program.

The objectives of the program are to develop and present educational programs designed to increase the public's awareness, knowledge and appreciation of the water quality and quantity problems in Michigan and to stress the environmental and economic trade-offs required to solve real world water related problems. These programs are offered in a variety of formats that suit the needs of individuals and user groups, including conferences, seminars, training workshops, computer models, web-based programs, and printed material.

Methods used to meet the objectives are to: (1) sponsor technical and non-technical conferences and workshop that deal with pressing water related issues; (2) deliver and evaluate lectures/demonstrations and power point presentations to user groups, environmental organizations, and students; (3) develop training sessions and workshops to assess trends in water quality; (4) develop web-based interactive programs that utilize geographic information systems, models, and new techniques to assess and address potential problems and visualize areas within watersheds; (5) establish a statewide coordinating center at Michigan State University to compile, interpret, and distribute water related information as well as to direct users to appropriate sources of expertise and information; (6) partner with other agencies and Universities on multidimensional issues; and (7) cooperate with the Michigan State University Extension Service to make water related information available through the county extension offices.