Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2012MI201B

Dissemination and Technology Transfer Training Programs

Institute: Michigan
Year Established: 2012 Start Date: 2012-03-01 End Date: 2013-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $25,490 Total Non-Federal Funds: $52,441

Principal Investigators: Lois Wolfson

Project Summary: Problem As more information on just about any subject becomes readily available to the public at the touch of a button, it is critical for Universities to be seen as and also serve as reputable and reliable sources of information. While volumes of information exist on the subject of water, much of it is unverified, biased and sometimes incorrect. Providing current and documented science based information is crucial to support good decision-making among citizens as well as law makers. An effective information dissemination program focused on water resources issues should provide multiple mechanisms for transferring timely, accurate, unbiased and current research-based information to user groups and diverse audiences. It should also offer alternative solutions to problems being assessed. The Institute of Water Research meets these needs by continuing to develop and expand upon its information dissemination and training program. Methods To enhance the usability and distribution of information on water resources, programs will be presented in a variety of formats including computer-based programs, on-site demonstrations, and group presentations. Specifically, mechanisms will include: (1) developing training sessions and workshops to help users understand aquatic ecosystems and water quality issues; (2) creating and delivering lectures/demonstrations and power point presentations to user groups, environmental organizations, and students; (3) developing, organizing and co-coordinating technical and non-technical conferences that address current and emerging water related issues; (4) developing web-based interactive programs that utilize geographic information systems, models, decision-support systems and/or new techniques to assess and address potential problems and visualize areas within watersheds; (5) establishing a point of contact 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) partnering with Michigan State University Extension field and campus educators to coordinate and support programs at the local level and 7) interacting with researchers, agency personnel, other states, and professionals on multidisciplinary issues related to water issues. Objectives The objectives of this program are to 1) keep current on new developments and issues relating to water and incorporate this information into existing and new programs; 2) 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 present alternatives in practices or behavior that lead to improvement of the resource; 3) provide hands-on tools and models to address environmental and economic complexities required to solve real world water related problems; 4) address high priority and emerging issues; 5) evaluate the projects disseminated and incorporate lessons learned into new programs; 6) develop programs 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; and 7) coordinate and develop multidisciplinary projects with extension educators within Michigan State University Extension, faculty on campus, other agencies, environmental organizations, and other Universities to make water-related information readily available to a vast clientele across the state.