Session Summary

There is growing recognition in the conservation community that social science research and practice can improve understanding and decision processes and outcomes. Conservation agencies recognize that the unprecedented... [ view full abstract ]

There is growing recognition in the conservation community that social science research and practice can improve understanding and decision processes and outcomes. Conservation agencies recognize that the unprecedented conservation challenges in the 21st Century, such as climate change, habitat fragmentation, water shortages and invasive species, can no longer solely be addressed with biological science and tools. Additionally, demographic and societal challenges of population growth, urbanization, and shifting valuation of wildlife requires creative approaches to connecting with a changing public. This recognition has resulted in increased social science capacity in several conservation organizations in the United States and abroad and greater emphasis on social science research. However, in spite of growing interest in and acknowledgment of the importance of social science to achieve conservation goals there remain a number of obstacles. In this workshop-style session we will first hear from a panel of conservation organization and academic representatives who will summarize shared barriers, strategies and successes in achieving social science integration in their respective organizations. Following presentations, we will facilitate a World Café dialogue with participants to strategize on future directions for improved integration, including needed processes, tools, and strategies.