Northeast Conservation Framework: Strategic Science Planning in the Northeast

In June 2011, Northeast conservation partners agreed upon a common regional conservation framework and priorities. The purpose of the framework was to build upon existing projects and priorities and link together conservation planning, design, delivery, and evaluation. This framework serves as the foundation for the Conservation Science Strategic Plan of the North Atlantic Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC). The framework, as embodied in the LCC’s Strategic Plan, continues to guide the work and partnerships of the North Atlantic LCC. During the initial years of operation of the North Atlantic LCC, science projects focused on the initial phases of the framework such as Biological Assessment. While work in these areas continues, the LCC is placing an increasing emphasis on latter phases such as Conservation Delivery. Delivering large-scale, conservation science products and tools so that they are actually used in conservation decision making poses substantial challenges. The challenges involve collaboration, communication, and education across a diverse set of partners who operate at varying spatial scales and who employ different tactics for conservation. The North Atlantic LCC is testing multiple approaches to address these challenges, from simple data visualization tools to intensive, collaborative planning efforts.