By bringing UF/IFAS researchers and extension specialists around the same table, the PIE Center hopes to partner on pivotal research and outreach programs addressing emerging agricultural and natural resources issues.
The recently formed Scientific and Extension Advisory Council will help PIE Center faculty and staff identify emerging issues and create strategies to address current issues impacting Florida’s agriculture and natural resources.
The 13-member council boasts experts from across UF/IFAS, which director Ricky Telg said illustrates the eagerness to collaborate and coordinate.
“We intentionally sought members with very little overlap in their areas of expertise,” he said. “We hope this council will become a catalyst for dialogue between UF/IFAS faculty representing research and extension interests.”
Affiliate faculty & professionals
A reengineered web tool enables the PIE Center to foster partnerships and collaboration among all faculty members and industry professionals interested in enhancing public understanding and informed decision making. By registering at piecenter.com/affiliates, faculty and professionals will have access to interdisciplinary networking opportunities for new research teams as well as expertise and knowledge about issues analysis, communication and education.
“Most importantly, affiliates will join a community of researchers, educators and scientists that will encourage others to learn, take action and promote the effective communication and resolution of agricultural and natural resources issues,” Telg said.
Community partners foster Gulf Coast resilience
As the PIE Center’s involvement in the Healthy Gulf, Healthy Communities collaboration nears an end in 2016, assistant professor Angie B. Lindsey organized regional forums and a panel of experts to share research results with those who live in communities affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and beyond. Lindsey works with a team of biologists, psychologists, social scientists, governmental agencies, county Extension faculty and non-profit organizations to address the environmental, economic and emotional health concerns following the spill.
Land-grand university resources database
The PIE Center is actively involved in a group of university communicators exploring issues management. The PIE Center will develop an archive of land-grant university resources from across the country that people can search for information about major issues facing agriculture and natural resources.
