The purpose of this grant was to provide research opportunities to students and staff working with the Southeast Climate Science Center (SE CSC) with a focus on decision analysis and science communication. Research activities occured primarily within the framework of existing SE CSC-funded projects. Student research supported project activities associated with the development and use of science-based information to make climate adaptation management decisions. Student abilities to participate in these research activities were enhanced by participation in a course entitled “Introduction to Structured Decision Making” taught at the National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) in Shepherdstown, WV. In addition to participation on a team of researchers conducting “actionable science”, additional research opportunities were expected to be identified in consultation with North Carolina State University (NCSU) and SE CSC scientists and other researchers within the Department of the Interior. These opportunities could include travel to and participation in research team activities associated with SE CSC research projects. Although the majority of this support was designed for students working with SE CSC research projects, it was expected that some travel will also be needed for NCSU scientists facilitating student research.
