with Dr. Nancy Fresco, Scenarios Network for Alaska and Arctic Planning
Speaker:
Dr. Nancy Fresco, Scenarios Network for Alaska and Arctic Planning
Our world is changing – but it can be hard to predict the exact timing and extent of the impacts. One way to deal with the uncertainty associated with shifting climate and varied human responses is to explore a range of possible futures via scenarios planning, based on input and participation from a diverse group comprised of the people most affected. How and when can this method be used as a tool for long-term planning? A case study from the National Park Service and the Scenarios Network for Alaska and Arctic Planning offers some insights into what works, how we can improve communication, and how we can move forward.
Dr. Nancy Fresco is a research professor at UAF and SNAP's Network Coordinator. As such, she either leads or contributes to many of SNAP's projects. Her work focuses on forging effective collaborations, linking SNAP data to the needs of stakeholders, and interpreting the results of complex modeling efforts. Her background is in biology, forest ecology, and environmental education.
Nancy has been an Alaska resident since 1999. She completed her undergrad work at Harvard in 1994, and earned a Masters from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies in 1999. She earned a PhD in Biology from UAF in 2006, as part of an interdisciplinary program in Regional Resilience and Adaptation. Her research focused on the carbon balance in Alaska’s boreal forest.
She spends as much time as possible outside, cross-country skiing, hiking, running, and bike-commuting to work in every variety of Fairbanks weather. Nancy and her husband Jay Cable have twin daughters.
ACCAP Climate Webinars promote dialogue and a forum for discussion and information exchange between all stakeholders in Alaska. Accessible statewide, the webinars identify existing information gaps and how best to fill them. Each webinar starts with 20–30 minutes of presentation followed by discussion and questions from participants.