Mission Statement
To enhance the scientific foundation for management of Southern California’s ocean and coastal watersheds.
Vision Statement
SCCWRP’s effective transfer of science to member agencies and other stakeholders leads to implementation of appropriate, viable management strategies that protect the ocean and coastal watersheds for this and future generations.
Goals and Strategies
Goal 1 (What work SCCWRP should do)
Undertake and participate in scientific investigations to understand ecological systems in the coastal waters and associated watersheds, in order to document relationships between these systems and human activities relevant to SCCWRP member agencies.
Strategies
- Focus research activities in southern California coastal waters and associated watersheds on answering the questions: (1) Is it safe to swim? (2) Is it safe to eat the fish? (3) Is the ecosystem healthy? (4) Are the natural resources being protected?
- Develop an independent research agenda in collaboration with the SCCWRP Commission’s Technical Advisory Group (CTAG).
Goal 2 (SCCWRP should do the work well)
Serve as a respected source of unbiased coastal water quality science.
Strategies
- Offer a salary, promotion and bonus structure that rewards scientific excellence.
- Stimulate our scientists to be industry leaders, by encouraging activities such as participation on review panels and editorial boards.
- Promote a balanced funding structure and maintain financial independence.
- Conduct SCCWRP activities transparently.
Goal 3 (SCCWRP should build consensus)
Develop scientific consensus on issues relevant to management decisions and application of science by member agencies.
Strategies
- Conduct the majority of projects in collaboration with other research institutions and stakeholders.
- Effectively communicate SCCWRP’s research activities to member agencies and other stakeholders.
- Establish SCCWRP as a regional meeting center.
- Hire, train, and reward scientists as good communicators and collaborators who facilitate consensus-building.
Goal 4 (SCCWRP’s work should be put to use)
Stimulate conversion of science to action.
Strategies
- Develop effective communication strategies to actively engage the Commission.
- Inspire and empower CTAG to serve as facilitators for transitioning science into application.
- Coordinate SCCWRP’s efforts with those at State and Federal levels.