Scientific investigations explore physical and biological systems in order to better inform us about how these systems function. It is equally important to apply these results and make them available for use by residents and other stakeholders of the region. As a community based, non-profit science organization, the PWS Science Center strives to conduct baseline and monitoring research, and also apply the results of research on problems of concern to local residents.

For example, Center researchers have conducted multiple projects related to seafood waste disposal, an issue important to processors and the fishing industry due to regulations which limit their processing capacity and affect the economics of their operations.

The Center has promoted both data sharing and synthesis of studies conducted in the Prince William Sound and Copper River Delta regions. We have partnered with various entities to establish web-based data portals and have also encouraged stronger communications amongst local and regional researchers. We have repeatedly hosted or co-sponsored workshops to bring together residents, researchers and resource managers to discuss the current knowledge on oceanographic or fisheries related issues. One of our goals is to establish a biennial “State of the Sound” symposium involving scientists, residents and others in discussions about changes occurring and implications for sustained resource use.

Working in partnership with Ecotrust, the Center is currently developing the Copper River Knowledge Systems (CRKS) as a web-based information system. Designed to help local citizens, conservationists and resource managers to better understand the Copper River Watershed in which they live and work, the CRKS uses GIS to create interactive maps that visually facilitate the exchange of information about the natural and human resources of this region.