The USGS Northeast Region (NER) integrates its scientific expertise and technical staff around issues of societal concern within Capability Teams (CTs) that focus on thematic topics. These Regional CTs encourage interdisciplinary, scientist-to-scientist collaboration and communication across the Region’s Science Centers and promote the use of best methods on specific science focus areas to improve the science and information products. Through that collaboration, the goal is to understand, anticipate, and develop best practices for managing whole environmental systems, surpassing the current limits of knowledge, performance, and understanding. Another goal is to foster innovation beyond commonly accepted boundaries to produce the most cutting edge, technically sound, and relevant science for decision-making purposes.
Since their implementation in 2015, the number of Capability Teams has grown from three to seven, and include:
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML)
- Coastal Science
- Environmental Contaminants
- Flood Science
- Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)
- Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS)
- Urban Landscapes
During the ensuing years, Capability Teams have generated a lot of synergy and enthusiasm among their members and other interested parties. Some of the CTs have included scientists from other USGS Regions as part of their efforts to share ideas, resources, and technology where appropriate. Additionally, some of the CTs have invited other interested Federal agencies and non-Federal partners to join topical calls to better understand their science needs and with whom USGS might collaborate with to meet those needs. The Region plans to implement additional thematic Capability Teams in the future.
