Publications by Bill Dennison

IAN is committed to producing practical, user-centered communications that foster a better understanding of science and enable readers to pursue new opportunities in research, education, and environmental problem-solving. Our publications synthesize scientific findings using effective science communication techniques.

Expanding the diversity of the Mid-Atlantic Tributary Assessment Coalition (Page 1)

Expanding the diversity of the Mid-Atlantic Tributary Assessment Coalition

Sara Powell, Caroline Donovan, Melissa Andreychek, Heath Kelsey, Bill Dennison ·
18 November 2010

Since the 2006 release of the first EcoCheck Chesapeake Bay report card, environmental report cards have gained increasing popularity and recognition as a public-friendly and scientifically sound method for reporting the health of a waterway. Recently, a number of watershed organizations in the Mid-Atlantic region have begun producing their own tributary-specific report cards.

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MMAs: What, why, and where (Page 1)

MMAs: What, why, and where

Orbach M, Bunce Karrer L ·
13 September 2010

One approach to the development of better coastal and marine policy and management is the concept of marine managed areas (MMAs). A MMA is an area of ocean, or a combination of land and ocean, where all human activities are managed toward common goals. MMAs are a form of ecosystem-based management, where all elements—biophysical, human, and institutional—of a particular system are considered together. This document describes what MMAs are, why they are important, and where they are implemented.

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People and Oceans: Managing marine areas for human well-being (Page 1)

People and Oceans: Managing marine areas for human well-being

Samonte G, Bunce Karrer L, Orbach M
·
13 September 2010

Although much research has been done on the ecological benefits and challenges of marine resource management, comparatively little insight has been gained into the benefits and challenges of the human well-being aspects. This document addresses this gap by building on existing knowledge and synthesizing over 20 social science studies conducted over the past five years in 19 countries, involving over 35 scientists, and drawing on experiences in 52 marine managed areas (MMAs) worldwide.

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Integrating and Applying Science: A handbook for effective coastal  ecosystem assessment (Page 1)

Integrating and Applying Science: A handbook for effective coastal ecosystem assessment

Longstaff BJ, Carruthers TJB, Dennison WC, Lookingbill TR, Hawkey JM, Thomas JE, Wicks EC, Woerner J ·
10 May 2010

Vast areas of the globe's coastal zone have experienced significant declines in ecosystem health. Deteriorating water quality, loss and alteration of vital habitats, and reduced populations of fish and shellfish are some of the major changes recorded. Establishing and running an effective assessment program is a complex process that necessitates strategic collaboration and partnerships between many individuals and agencies.

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Chapter 1: Environmental campaigns: achieving a shared vision using research, monitoring, and management

Dennison WC and Wicks EC ·
2010

A coastal assessment program cannot simply draw from a few individuals; it takes contributions from an entire community and the creation of a shared vision. Keeping a balance among research, monitoring, and management is especially important and includes the dynamics of human interactions and strong communication between stakeholders and the broader community.

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Chapter 2: Environmental leadership: achieving a sustainable future by fostering environmental champions

Dennison WC and Thomas JE ·
2010

For every environmental campaign, a strong leader is needed for guidance and motivation. There have been a series of leaders or "champions" in the history of the world who have changed life on this planet. All of these leaders, no matter what area their specialty, have contained the following traits: knowledge of their field; passion for what they do; and an ability to successfully communicate their messages not only to their colleagues, but also to the broader community.

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Chapter 4: Communication strategy: packaging and delivering the message for maximum impact

Conner CS, Dennison WC, and Thomas JE ·
2010

Drawing from the last chapter and its emphasis on the importance of communication, this chapter discusses ways to broadcast a message internally within a coastal assessment program and externally to the general public. Throughout the chapter, the steps involved in broadcasting the message (such as determining target audience, ways in which to relay the message, and how to create an appropriate timeline) will be explained in detail.

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