A boundary spanning system supports large-scale ecosystem-based management. Issue 133 (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: James, C. Andrew; Francis, Tessa B.; Baker, Joel E.; Georgiadis, Nick; Kinney, Aimee; Magel, Caitlin; Rice, Jeff; Roberts, Tanya; Wright, Christopher W.
• Is Part Of: Environmental science & policy. Issue 133(2022)
• Page Start: 137
• Page End: 145
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: Boundary spanning -- Boundary object -- Ecosystem-based management -- Use of science -- Restoration planning -- Science-policy links; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Environnement -- Politique gouvernementale -- Périodiques; Sciences de l'environnement -- Périodiques; Environmental policy; Environmental sciences; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.70561
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsci.2022.03.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1462-9011

Abstract

Abstract: Boundary spanning is a focused effort to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and information between producers (i.e., analysts, scientists, researchers, etc.) and users (i.e., decision-makers, policy makers, managers, etc.) in support of evidence-informed decision-making. Here we provide specific examples of approaches and products by a boundary spanning organization as part of a regional ecosystem-based management program. These examples illustrate a range of potential boundary spanning activities while also describing a more holistic boundary system that employs several complimentary and related approaches to improve the use of knowledge in decision-making across interfaces separating different institutions. This system is supported by, and indeed requires, a larger institutional framework that provides scaffolding upon which the boundary spanning operates. As described, the institutional framework is often not supplied solely by a single boundary spanning organization, but rather by a suite of cooperating institutions. Last, we discuss approaches to evaluating the various impacts of boundary spanning. Highlights: Boundary spanning systems provide multiple opportunities to improve knowledge use. Vignettes illustrate range of approaches to cross diverse institutional interfaces. Coordinating institutions create a framework to support boundary spanning. Alternative measure of boundary spanning impacts should be considered.