Project Grant 2343979

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) was awarded a $358,332 federal Project Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (CFDA 47.075) program. The grant will fund a 2-year study to develop and test new methods for producing actionable scientific information to improve snow avalanche decision-making in Alaska. Key project activities include conducting virtual and in-person listening sessions, interviews, and surveys with snow avalanche decision-makers across different sectors to identify their information needs. A team of social scientists, avalanche experts, and science communicators will then develop tailored communication strategies and products to effectively deliver this actionable avalanche data. The goal is to establish new connections between communication, science, and natural hazards research to ultimately enhance public safety and well-being in Alaska and potentially other hazard-prone regions.