Panel Discussion: Response and View to the Future of the Science-Policy Interface Featuring Paul Lumley, Barry Thom, and Phil Rockefeller

The presentations in this symposium explore themes in Kai Lee’s influential book “Compass and Gyroscope” which describes a dual approach to management of Columbia River Basin fish and wildlife. The compass is the science designed to inform an adaptive management approach. While the gyroscope represents the policy negotiations that, informed by science and fueled by debate between competing interests, can result in more effective management. The ISRP and the ISAB are integral components of the compass, and most of this symposium’s presentations address the relationship of science and policy from the scientists’ perspective. This panel asks decision makers (the keepers of the gyroscope) from the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, NOAA Fisheries, and the Columbia River Tribes for their candid assessments of how independent scientific advice has guided development and implementation of their programs.