Workshop: Communicating the Science of Ecosystem Services to Decision-Makers

As regions respond to the National Ocean Policy, what roles can ecosystem services play in shaping this dialogue? Can services provide an organizing framework for coastal and marine spatial planning? This 2-day workshop focused on identifying and developing consistent messages about ecosystem services that would resonate with decision makers. COMPASS' goal was to support scientists in developing, framing, and strengthening their messages to enhance the value of this body of science for decision-making. Participants worked to translate the latest science into clear messages, discussed opportunities provided by the current US ocean policy landscape, and tested their communication skills through a series of role-playing exercises with regional and Federal decision makers.

A summary of key messages from the workshop is available for download here.