Year: 2018
Project(s):
Relevance
When the Sea Grant oil spill science outreach program formed in 2014, the team identified target audiences that the Deepwater Horizon directly impacted or that used or shared oil spill science. Some audiences within the federal government had existing Sea Grant ties, while others, such as members of the oil spill response sector, were unfamiliar with Sea Grant extension efforts.
Response
The oil spill outreach team focused its efforts on becoming a trusted resource for those who work in oil spill response in both the public and private sectors. By sharing unbiased, peer-reviewed oil spill science; extending invitations to oil spill response professionals to contribute as publication reviewers and seminar presenters; joining NOAA/Coast Guard Regional Response Team events; and attending conferences oil spill responders frequent, the team has become a valued part of the network.
Results
Multiple audiences now view team members as trusted brokers of information. Both a government librarian and an international oil company shared team publications. Team members joined a mix of public and private parties at invitation-only response product tests at a national testing facility and two regional “spill drill” exercises. When news of a marine oil leak made headlines, a government official contacted the team to consult regarding next steps.
Recap
The Sea Grant Oil Spill Science Outreach Team connected with target audiences, became a trusted information resource for stakeholders in multiple sectors and was awarded a “seat at the table” at key events. (2018)