Communicating the science of the Dragonfly Mercury Project

17-20 April 2023, Campus on Lake Austin, Texas

In this workshop, National Park Service resource managers, scientists, interpreters, science communicators and education specialists participating in the Dragonfly Mercury Project will collaborate to develop shared goals, messaging, and language. We will review existing products and programs, generate ideas for new efforts, and learn from each other to identify best practices in communicating the science of mercury in dragonflies to various audiences.

Participants will develop plans to communicate Dragonfly Mercury Project science through interpretation or education programs or other means, with follow-up support provided by Schoodic Institute science communication specialists.

We will be working in small groups. Team applications (people who work together or might work together on communicating about the Dragonfly Mercury Project—e.g., managers, scientists, interpreters from a park or region) are encouraged but individuals are welcome. Participation will be capped at 25 individuals; therefore, we are asking that those interested complete an application by November 1.

We will select participants who represent diverse geographies, positions, experience, and communication methods/challenges, as well as demonstrated capacity to follow-through after workshop.

There is no registration fee and lodging and meals are provided, however participants must cover their own costs for travel to and from the workshop. A limited amount of travel funds may be available.

Workshop Application

Name*
First Last
Title*
Email*
NPS affiliation*
What aspects of Dragonfly Mercury Project science are you interested in communicating, and why?*
Who is your primary audience for communicating Dragonfly Mercury Project science?*
How long have you been participating in the Dragonfly Mercury Project?*
- New
- Recent (1-3 years)
- Long-term (3+ years)
- Other
What are your opportunities to tell stories about science and scientists to the public?*
What is your staffing capacity for completing and following through on plans you develop during the workshop?*
Do you need travel assistance to attend this workshop?*
- No
- Yes
- Maybe
There is no fee and lodging and meals are provided, however participants must cover their own costs for travel to and from the workshop. A limited amount of travel funds may be available for 1 or 2 participants. Please let us know if you anticipate needing assistance with travel costs.
Statements of Support*
Please attach statements from supervisors/leads who support your participation in the workshop and follow-on work to develop and implement a science interpretation plan.
Drop files here or

Max. file size: 32 MB, Max. files: 2.
What are your greatest challenges in communicating about the Dragonfly Mercury Project and related science?
Are you interested in attending this workshop on behalf of a team of others within your park, region, or network? If so, please provide team members (name, title, email).