Methodology
Based previous regional and national programs, MASGC has a good understanding of how to successfully implement a startup program of this magnitude. A National Water Extension Liaison will be hired to implement a National Water Extension Program located at the National Water Center on the campus of the University of Alabama. MASGC’s approach will focus on improving the internal engagement with other NOAA programs and NOAA partners while delivering extension programming to external stakeholders over a four-year period.
Rationale
The National Water Center was developed to collaboratively conduct research, develop and deliver state-of-the-art national hydrologic analyses, forecast information, data, decision-support services and guidance to support and inform essential emergency services and water management decisions. By developing closer collaboration with other NOAA line offices, Sea Grant will have greater access to NOAA science, products and services. With this access, Sea Grant extension specialists will better be able to implement more robust extension programming in their states and provide an essential feedback mechanism with relevant stakeholders to guide the process of developing products and services that are highly relevant and better inform the decision making process at the national, regional, state and local levels.