UMCES Strategic Directions

Strategic Directions in the 2004 Strategic Plan From Vision to Reality

Science to Support Ecosystem Based Management

UMCES will develop its competencies and experience to become a nationally and internationally prominent institution for science to support ecosystem-based management. It will pursue research and integrate and apply expertise extending across terrestrial, aquatic and marine environments and transcending disciplines to empower ecosystem-based management of multiple human uses, as called for by the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy.

Multi-scale Ecosystem Restoration

UMCES will develop approaches and measures for proactive environmental restoration activities that are effective and well-integrated with preventative measures. Through considering the consequences of small-scale restoration activities on the larger ecosystem, it will advance "smart restoration." The objective is to contribute to achieving technically and socially supportable goals for the realistic restoration of large ecosystems.

Linking Observing Systems and Forecasts from Mountain to Sea

UMCES will play a key role in the design, implementation and operation of automated and remote observing systems of terrestrial, aquatic and coastal marine environments. It will emphasize the interpretation of data and delivery of products to advance both scientific understanding and practical use. To accomplish this it will link these observations with model-based forecasts in interactive partnership.

Regional Consequences of Climate Change and Variability

UMCES will assemble and enhance its expertise to advance understanding of the effects of climate change and variability on ecosystems. It will uncover their sensitivity and adaptability and develop predictions that are useful to environmental and resource managers. It will collaborate with climate scientists in other institutions, bringing to bear its substantial capabilities in ecosystem science.

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