Social Science Workgroup

The goal of the Social Science Workgroup (SSWG) is to provide a platform to integrate social science perspectives into CBP’s efforts, focusing on the human dimensions of watershed management. Social sciences cover a wide array of disciplines, including behavioral economics, sociology, governance, environmental justice, and public policy. The SSWG aims to help define and apply social science frameworks that address key partnership challenges while fostering collaboration between physical and social scientists.

Charge:

  • Define what social science means within the Chesapeake Bay Program and how it interfaces with existing efforts to restore the watershed.
  • Provide advice, feedback, and recommendations on integrating social science into the Chesapeake Bay Program’s policies, strategies, and practices.
  • Develop methods for bridging gaps between scientific research and decision-making processes, particularly focusing on governance, environmental justice, and equity concerns.
  • Assist in identifying and overcoming barriers to the inclusion of social science in CBP projects, ensuring that efforts reflect the diverse needs of all stakeholders.
  • Facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration to address the social and behavioral dimensions of environmental challenges, including land use, water quality, and community engagement.
  • Contribute to discussions of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ), ensuring that environmental decisions consider the equity implications of various policy options.

Members:

  • Christine Kirchhoff, PSU, STAC, SSWG Co-Chair
  • Ellen Kohl, UMBC, STAC, SSWG Co-Chair
  • John Bovay, VT, STAC
  • Amy Handen, EPA
  • Scott Knoche, Morgan State PEARL, STAC
  • Yusuke Kuwayama, UMBC, STAC
  • Theo Lim, UBC, STAC
  • Dave Martin, TNC, STAC
  • Adrienne Michaelis, VIMS
  • David Newburn, UMD
  • Leah Palm-Forster, UD, STAC
  • Daphne Pee, GWU, Stakeholders’ AC
  • Jeryl Phillips, VIMS
  • Mike Runge, USGS, STAC
  • Larry Sanford, UMCES, STAC
  • Denice Wardrop, CRC, STAC
  • Valerie Were, CIRA, STAC

Introduction slides for STAC SSWG members, presented at the March 2025 Quarterly Meeting

Approved STAC Social Science Workgroup Charge Membership 10_2_2024.

Charge and Membership as of October 2, 2024

For more information, please contact Meg Cole, STAC Coordinator, colem@chesapeake.org.