Watershed Management Publications and Synthesis

Project Abstract:
This project is focused on improving access, capturing current watershed management knowledge and transfering information to users targeted at numerous identified needs. This focus will be achieved through project activities that include:

1. Streamline Watershed Management Bulletin;
2. the Compendium of Forest Hydrology and Geomorphology in British Columbia,
3. presentations on Watershed Management information products; and
4. synthesis style articles/reports.

Presentations on watershed management information products will increase practitioner knowledge of current tools and information available. Synthesis articles proposed address timely extension needs in the field of Watershed management. These activities will further help capitalize on known science-based information in development of forest management decisions and strategies.

The extension specialists, in collaboration with our partners will produce two issues of the technical watershed management bulletin Streamline. The publication will be used to actively target watershed management information needs as identified in the watershed management extension plan and other needs assessment documents. Streamline aids in filling identified extension needs for clients to increase communication, awareness and knowledge of research and innovation in watershed management. The primary target audience includes government policy-makers and decision-makers in the forest sector, forest managers, practitioners (hydrologists, geoscientists, fish biologists), watershed management researchers. Its focus is on principles and techniques, drawing on BC case studies to illustrate and move discussions from 'fundamentals' to application. The Watershed Management Extension Specialists will work with existing literature, FIA-FSP proponents, and experts to finalize the remaining drafts (including peer review) of Compendium chapters and perform editorial functions in compiling the Compendium in preparation for publication.

The Compendium will also be the basis for watershed management workshops that are proposed in future years (2008/09). The Compendium will provide known information related to several identified client needs that include forest management effects on water quality and quantity, riparian management and the response of watersheds to forest management and natural disturbances (Sustainable Provincial Advisory Committee 2005, PFEP Client Needs Survey 2006).

In all, these activities will:

• Allow the natural resource community to capitalize on known science-based information in development of forest management decisions and strategies.
• Elevate the basic knowledge base of the natural resource community to ensure forest management is conducted in a sustainable manner in relation to water resources.
• Help avoid duplication in research.

For further information on this project, please contact robin.pike@forrex.org.