Convergence Science in the Baltimore Ecosystem Study
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Background: The Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) has engaged in convergence research since our inception in 1998. We propose to develop a synthesis of our 20+ years of effort in convergence research, which engages research and applications. We would like to highlight specific outcomes of these efforts and lessons learned.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) identifies Convergence Research as having two primary characteristics (https://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2019/nsf19551/nsf19551.htm):
- Research is driven by a specific and compelling problem. Convergence Research is generally inspired by the need to address a specific challenge or opportunity, whether it arises from deep scientific questions or pressing societal needs.
- Deep integration across disciplines. As experts from different disciplines pursue common research challenges, their knowledge, theories, methods, data, research communities and languages become increasingly intermingled or integrated. New frameworks, paradigms or even disciplines can form sustained interactions across multiple communities.
In order to advance this synthesis effort, the April BES quarterly meeting will ask speakers to highlight specific outcomes of convergence research and the lessons learned. Each speaker will have 5 minutes to share the outcomes and lessons learned with the audience. In advance of the meeting, each speaker (or team) will have developed a 1-2 page document on the outcomes and processes by which the outcomes were achieved. Talks will be followed by breakout groups, where attendees will be asked to brainstorm other examples of convergence research in Baltimore that could be summarized in 1-2 pagers. We will conclude with a Town Hall meeting to discuss the potential for a Baltimore Ecosystem Alliance and the role of convergence research in the Alliance.
Meeting goals:
A synthesis of our 20+ years of effort in convergence research. We would like to highlight specific outcomes of these efforts and the lessons learned. This synthesis will lead to a general report and journal publication.
- Develop a framework, strategies, practices, and next steps for a Baltimore Ecology Alliance.
Agenda
9:00 am Welcome and Overview. Emma Rosi, BES Director
9:10 Urban Tree Canopy Data for Applications and Research in Baltimore: an evolving dynamic. Morgan Grove and Charlie Murphy
9:15 Sweet spots for nitrogen restoration in a coastal watershed. Peter Groffman, Larry Band, Ed Doheny, Jon Duncan, Morgan Grove, Shannon LaDeau, Dexter Locke, Andy Miller, Dave Newburn, AJ Reisinger, Andrew Rosenberg, Emma Rosi, Charles Towe, Claire Welty, Roy Zhang
9:30 Changing hydrology, flooding, restoration and working with Baltimore County. Andy Miller
9:45 Actionable Science in the Baltimore Urban Waters Partnership: Enhancing Connections Between Environmental Managers and Scientists. Bob Shedlock
10:00 Mosquitoes, neighborhoods, and the heterogeneous riskscape. Shannon LaDeau
10:15 Vacant Lot Regreening, Ecosystem Services and the Maryland Green Prisons Initiative. Chris Swan
10:30 BREAK
10:40 Convergence urban ecosystem education research and practice: 20 years of BES/Baltimore School partnership. Alan Berkowitz, Bess Caplan
10:55 Lessons Learned about Convergence through Future Visioning in Baltimore. Elizabeth Cook, David Iwaniec, Marissa Matsler, Bernice Rosenzweig
11:10 Exploring the Convergence of Ecology and Architecture in Urban Design. Brian McGrath and Steward Pickett
11:25 Connecting, Coordinating, and Collaborating: Leveraging lessons from forest research and stewardship to affect policy and community. Matt Baker and Katie Lautar
11:40 Breakout groups to brainstorm about other examples of BES convergence efforts- breakout groups will be random
12:00 pm BREAK
12:15 Groups report back
12:30 Town Hall: A Baltimore Ecology Alliance. This session will provide a forum for discussing the future of the Baltimore Ecosystem Study and how best to connect researchers, stakeholders, policy-makers, educators, and interested members of the public to continue the work of BES.
1:00 Conclude
