RESEARCH in progress . . . . . science partners:
USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station University of
Vermont
Environmental Stewardship Organizational Network Analysis: Identifying stewardship organizations in the Seattle and Puget Sound metropolitan areas Study Goals •
Identify stewardship organizations first in metro
Seattle, then greater Puget Sound areas •
Understand how these organizations network and share resources •
Learn how to build organization capacity for environmental stewardship programs, and •
Provide data for comparative studies in other urban areas. Sample Network Analysis: various organization types (such as local agencies, NGOs, and community groups) have connections of various kinds and strengths.
Study Approach •
projects was prepared, based on their mission What Is the Issue?
The environment is a complex network of interacting biophysical and A database of organizations that support stewardship statements •
691 organizations were asked to complete a survey materials systems. Just as complex are the social-­‐cultural systems of the asking information about organization history, communities and organizations that engage in stewardship. We a re using stewardship project activity, and collaborations Social Network A nalysis m ethods to better understand the inter-­‐
•
connections of committed organizations. Knowledge about the steward-­‐
ship network can enhance program efficiencies and effectiveness. Survey response data about working relationships, and knowledge and funding sharing was used to do a social network analysis. Why Is This Research Important?
Research of the Pacific Northwest region consistently shows ongoing threats to natural resources systems. Stewardship programs are
potentially effective in assisting land m anagers with preservation and conservation efforts (especially in times of reduced budgets and staffing). A comprehensive assessment of the number, types, and motivations of stewardship organizations, and the linkages between them, can help land managers and communities to decrease the effects of ecosystem threats and decline. It is important to understand the relationships and networks that link stewardship groups and organizations. Research Sponsors Contact: MICHELE ROMOLINI, Loyola Marymount University; e-­‐mail: Michele.Romolini@lmu.edu KATHLEEN WOLF, University of Washington; email: kwolf@uw.edu May 2014 Funding for this work is provided by the United States American Reinvestment and Recovery Act coordinated by the USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (in education and training programs and activities), age, disability, or retaliation.