Paper short abstract:

The Suwannee River Basin project is an interdisciplinary initiative to build resilient industries and communities by understanding future land use and climate scenarios. Using stakeholder input, the project addresses current and future challenges to inform management and a sustainable future.

Paper long abstract:

The Suwannee River Basin supports diverse ecosystems, communities, and industries in the southeastern United States. As the region experiences climate variability and increased human development, it is important to understand the potential environmental and economic impacts of these changes. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Suwannee project is an interdisciplinary initiative that utilizes modeling to predict future outcomes in the Suwannee River Basin. These models include interactions among land use, water quality and quantity, species distribution, economic impact, and stakeholder input. The project aims to equip policymakers and managers with the necessary data to make informed decisions related to the management of resources.

To better understand the impacts of future scenarios, a 12-member advisory council was established. The council is comprised of local stakeholders representing industries such as agriculture, forestry, fishing, tourism, and natural resource management. Gathering local input has enabled the project team to address community concerns and connect with opinion leaders. Through these partnerships, project results will be disseminated to decision-makers and the general public, creating awareness for the social-ecological impacts of land use and climate change. Ultimately, the project will enhance community resilience in the Suwannee River Basin by promoting sustainability and responsible resource use. The NAS Suwannee project represents an innovative research approach, integrating multiple scientific disciplines while receiving guidance and input from local knowledge systems. Prioritizing the voices of stakeholders throughout this project has generated local buy-in, encouraging sustainable practices that will protect the future of the Suwannee River Basin and its resources.