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• 21. [Article] Cooperative product development between researchers and commercial fishermen to find applications for ocean condition forecasting technology

  This is a case study of the cooperative development of an ocean condition forecasting tool by Oregon commercial fishermen, Oregon State University (OSU) scientists, and OSU student software engineers. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Cooperative product development between researchers and commercial fishermen to find applications for ocean condition forecasting technology Author: Duncan, Colin (Colin S.) This is a case study of the cooperative development of an ocean condition forecasting tool by Oregon commercial fishermen, Oregon State University (OSU) scientists, and OSU student software engineers. Ocean condition forecasting models developed by OSU scientists were used to create an online tool to assist decision-making for fishermen. This tool is loosely based on the NANOOS Visualization System (NVS), a publically available product of the Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems (NANOOS). The new tool was designed using data gathered from Oregon commercial fishermen in semi-structured interviews and group meetings. These interviews and meetings explored the ways that the fishing community uses ocean condition information to inform fishing tactics. Similar interviews with scientists explored why and how the scientific community creates tools like NVS. Interviews were also conducted with the software engineers who built the tool in an attempt to examine the product design process itself. Resulting findings were used to build a prototype tool that matches the capabilities of the scientific and development communities with the needs of the fishing community. This study also gathered observations on fishermen's, scientists', and developers’ motives for cooperation in research and product development. Research in the fishing community indicated that fishermen make use of a wide variety of information, and in a diversity of ways. For example, predictions of sea surface temperature were of particular interest to tuna, swordfish, and salmon fishermen, while crabbers placed an emphasis on the speed and direction of ocean currents. There was general interest in wave models, particularly at the entrance to harbors, given the impact of wave action on vessel safety. Fishermen expressed interest in accurate representations of bathymetry, as well as in subsurface currents. Interface issues with the tool were also important. Fishermen stressed that simplicity and intuitive ease-of-use be balanced with richness of information. For example, fishermen expressed a preference for distance to be expressed in nautical miles rather than in the kilometers that are currently the default NVS setting. While they praised NVS for providing them with access to information on a wide variety of ocean conditions, the multiplicity of models available on NVS and the manner in which they were arranged could sometimes be confusing. Fishermen mentioned that they often use tools like NVS at sea, where the dynamic nature of the environment (i.e., on boat in constant motion) raises interface issues generally not present ashore. There was also concern about connectivity for an internet-based tool at sea, distant from internet or cellular connections. This research uncovered important details about the cooperative design process. Fishermen, in particular, expressed mixed feelings about cooperation with the scientific community, especially with respect to the perceived role scientists play in fisheries regulation. Fishermen also stated that the scientific community failed to value fishermen's knowledge. However, given the non-regulatory nature of this project, fishermen expressed cautious optimism. This research also uncovered practical considerations for cooperation between fishermen and scientists. For example, the best time for meetings and interviews with fishermen was October, November, and early December, during a lull in fishing activity that generally precedes the opening of the winter crab season. Early in the crab season, as well as late spring, were particularly bad times as the fishermen were generally busy. Fishermen's schedules may be irregular, dependent on fisheries regulations and on ocean conditions that may be highly uncertain. Scientists, by contrast, may have highly inflexible schedules, with numerous commitments booked months into the future. As a result, coordination between these two groups may prove challenging, and require creative thinking to maneuver around. Scientists expressed enthusiasm for using their ocean models to benefit the fishing community, as this demonstrated the applicability of their research to areas outside of academia. In the words of one participating scientist, "You want people to use the research that you’re doing." The idea of cooperation also met with a favorable response, but the value of middlemen who could intermediate between the communities was stressed. Lack of time was cited as a barrier to direct interaction, as was the perception that end-user interaction was a more appropriate job for social scientists, rather than oceanographers. The student software engineers who formed the tool's product development team also appreciated having a go-between to research the needs of the fishermen, "digest" the field data, and contribute findings to the design process. This freed the product development team to focus on its own strength (writing code), with the intermediary arranging occasional interactions with fishermen or scientists as necessary. However, the design team members did stress that as the new tool developed, direct interaction with fishermen would become more necessary. It may be that as the cooperative product development process continues the role of the intermediary may change. Those who study this in the future may find themselves facilitating and observing direct communication between participating fishermen, scientists, and development team members, rather than acting as the main channel of communication as has thus far been the case. This research has laid the groundwork for continuing development of a useful tool for Oregon's fishermen. It has also contributed to a mutually beneficial channel of communication between the fishing and scientific communities. Lessons learned about fishermen, scientists, and product designers can inform future iterations of the cooperative design process, as well as provide a basis for cooperation in other areas of research. However, these lessons and new channels of communication are only as valuable as the willingness to follow through with the cooperative development process. If the new tool never gets beyond the proof-of-concept stage, it may actually serve to worsen relations between the fishing and academic communities. According to one scientist, "If the project stops here, the fishermen will chalk this up to one more academic 'teaser' or failure." Fishermen, scientists, and development team members have all invested time, energy, and goodwill into this project. All three groups stand to realize that investment if the project succeeds, and to loose it if the project fails. True success in this project arguably means that the cooperative development process will be alive and benefiting the participants when this thesis is gathering dust on a shelf. Title: Cooperative product development between researchers and commercial fishermen to find applications for ocean condition forecasting technology Author: Duncan, Colin (Colin S.) This is a case study of the cooperative development of an ocean condition forecasting tool by Oregon commercial fishermen, Oregon State University (OSU) scientists, and OSU student software engineers. Ocean condition forecasting models developed by OSU scientists were used to create an online tool to assist decision-making for fishermen. This tool is loosely based on the NANOOS Visualization System (NVS), a publically available product of the Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems (NANOOS). The new tool was designed using data gathered from Oregon commercial fishermen in semi-structured interviews and group meetings. These interviews and meetings explored the ways that the fishing community uses ocean condition information to inform fishing tactics. Similar interviews with scientists explored why and how the scientific community creates tools like NVS. Interviews were also conducted with the software engineers who built the tool in an attempt to examine the product design process itself. Resulting findings were used to build a prototype tool that matches the capabilities of the scientific and development communities with the needs of the fishing community. This study also gathered observations on fishermen's, scientists', and developers’ motives for cooperation in research and product development. Research in the fishing community indicated that fishermen make use of a wide variety of information, and in a diversity of ways. For example, predictions of sea surface temperature were of particular interest to tuna, swordfish, and salmon fishermen, while crabbers placed an emphasis on the speed and direction of ocean currents. There was general interest in wave models, particularly at the entrance to harbors, given the impact of wave action on vessel safety. Fishermen expressed interest in accurate representations of bathymetry, as well as in subsurface currents. Interface issues with the tool were also important. Fishermen stressed that simplicity and intuitive ease-of-use be balanced with richness of information. For example, fishermen expressed a preference for distance to be expressed in nautical miles rather than in the kilometers that are currently the default NVS setting. While they praised NVS for providing them with access to information on a wide variety of ocean conditions, the multiplicity of models available on NVS and the manner in which they were arranged could sometimes be confusing. Fishermen mentioned that they often use tools like NVS at sea, where the dynamic nature of the environment (i.e., on boat in constant motion) raises interface issues generally not present ashore. There was also concern about connectivity for an internet-based tool at sea, distant from internet or cellular connections. This research uncovered important details about the cooperative design process. Fishermen, in particular, expressed mixed feelings about cooperation with the scientific community, especially with respect to the perceived role scientists play in fisheries regulation. Fishermen also stated that the scientific community failed to value fishermen's knowledge. However, given the non-regulatory nature of this project, fishermen expressed cautious optimism. This research also uncovered practical considerations for cooperation between fishermen and scientists. For example, the best time for meetings and interviews with fishermen was October, November, and early December, during a lull in fishing activity that generally precedes the opening of the winter crab season. Early in the crab season, as well as late spring, were particularly bad times as the fishermen were generally busy. Fishermen's schedules may be irregular, dependent on fisheries regulations and on ocean conditions that may be highly uncertain. Scientists, by contrast, may have highly inflexible schedules, with numerous commitments booked months into the future. As a result, coordination between these two groups may prove challenging, and require creative thinking to maneuver around. Scientists expressed enthusiasm for using their ocean models to benefit the fishing community, as this demonstrated the applicability of their research to areas outside of academia. In the words of one participating scientist, "You want people to use the research that you’re doing." The idea of cooperation also met with a favorable response, but the value of middlemen who could intermediate between the communities was stressed. Lack of time was cited as a barrier to direct interaction, as was the perception that end-user interaction was a more appropriate job for social scientists, rather than oceanographers. The student software engineers who formed the tool's product development team also appreciated having a go-between to research the needs of the fishermen, "digest" the field data, and contribute findings to the design process. This freed the product development team to focus on its own strength (writing code), with the intermediary arranging occasional interactions with fishermen or scientists as necessary. However, the design team members did stress that as the new tool developed, direct interaction with fishermen would become more necessary. It may be that as the cooperative product development process continues the role of the intermediary may change. Those who study this in the future may find themselves facilitating and observing direct communication between participating fishermen, scientists, and development team members, rather than acting as the main channel of communication as has thus far been the case. This research has laid the groundwork for continuing development of a useful tool for Oregon's fishermen. It has also contributed to a mutually beneficial channel of communication between the fishing and scientific communities. Lessons learned about fishermen, scientists, and product designers can inform future iterations of the cooperative design process, as well as provide a basis for cooperation in other areas of research. However, these lessons and new channels of communication are only as valuable as the willingness to follow through with the cooperative development process. If the new tool never gets beyond the proof-of-concept stage, it may actually serve to worsen relations between the fishing and academic communities. According to one scientist, "If the project stops here, the fishermen will chalk this up to one more academic 'teaser' or failure." Fishermen, scientists, and development team members have all invested time, energy, and goodwill into this project. All three groups stand to realize that investment if the project succeeds, and to loose it if the project fails. True success in this project arguably means that the cooperative development process will be alive and benefiting the participants when this thesis is gathering dust on a shelf. Close

• 22. [Article] Strengthening Rural Latinos’ Civic Engagement for Health: The Voceros de Salud Project

  This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Johns Hopkins University Press and can be found at: https://www.press.jhu.e...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Strengthening Rural Latinos’ Civic Engagement for Health: The Voceros de Salud Project Author: Lopez-Cevallos, Daniel, Dierwechter, Tatiana, Patton-Lopez, Megan, Volkmann, Kelly This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Johns Hopkins University Press and can be found at: https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/journal_of_health_care_for_the_poor_and_underserved/. Title: Strengthening Rural Latinos’ Civic Engagement for Health: The Voceros de Salud Project Author: Lopez-Cevallos, Daniel, Dierwechter, Tatiana, Patton-Lopez, Megan, Volkmann, Kelly This is an author's peer-reviewed final manuscript, as accepted by the publisher. The published article is copyrighted by The Johns Hopkins University Press and can be found at: https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/journal_of_health_care_for_the_poor_and_underserved/. Close

• 23. [Article] Examining ectomycorrhizal communities of ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine in the south-central Oregon pumice zone

  Background information is presented that provides historical perspectives on the field of mycology in the Pacific Northwest and its role in forest management. The series of events and decisions that have ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Examining ectomycorrhizal communities of ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine in the south-central Oregon pumice zone Author: Garcia, Maria Osuna Background information is presented that provides historical perspectives on the field of mycology in the Pacific Northwest and its role in forest management. The series of events and decisions that have led to previous studies (or lack of studies) in the field also dictate the directions of current research. Culture, philosophy, and history all play a role in the questions that may be asked today. Examining the past gives light to the questions that are asked in the present and future. Forest ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest are changing as a result of climate change. Rise of global temperatures, decline of winter precipitation, earlier loss of snowpack, and increased summer drought are altering the range of Pinus contorta. As environmental conditions change, Pinus ponderosa may establish within the historic Pinus contorta range. Successful pine species migration will be constrained by the distribution or co-migration of ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF). Knowledge of the linkages among soil fungal diversity, community structure, and environmental factors is critical to understanding the organization and stability of pine ecosystems. The objectives of this study are to establish an informational foundation of the EMF communities of P. ponderosa and P. contorta in the Deschutes National Forest and to examine soil characteristics associated with community composition. We examined EMF root tips of P. ponderosa and P. contorta in soil cores and conducted soil chemistry analysis for P. ponderosa. Results indicate that Cenococcum geophilum, Rhizopogon salebrosus, and Inocybe flocculosa are dominant in both P. contorta and P. ponderosa soil cores. Rhizopogon spp. were ubiquitous in P. ponderosa. There was no significant difference between EMF communities of P. ponderosa and P. contorta at the species level. Ordination analysis suggests that pH, Bray-phosphorus, total phosphorus (P), carbon (C), mineralizable nitrogen (N), ammonium (NH₄) and nitrate (NO₃) are driving EMF community composition in P. ponderosa. We found a significant linear relationship between EMF species richness and mineralizable N. Title: Examining ectomycorrhizal communities of ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine in the south-central Oregon pumice zone Author: Garcia, Maria Osuna Background information is presented that provides historical perspectives on the field of mycology in the Pacific Northwest and its role in forest management. The series of events and decisions that have led to previous studies (or lack of studies) in the field also dictate the directions of current research. Culture, philosophy, and history all play a role in the questions that may be asked today. Examining the past gives light to the questions that are asked in the present and future. Forest ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest are changing as a result of climate change. Rise of global temperatures, decline of winter precipitation, earlier loss of snowpack, and increased summer drought are altering the range of Pinus contorta. As environmental conditions change, Pinus ponderosa may establish within the historic Pinus contorta range. Successful pine species migration will be constrained by the distribution or co-migration of ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF). Knowledge of the linkages among soil fungal diversity, community structure, and environmental factors is critical to understanding the organization and stability of pine ecosystems. The objectives of this study are to establish an informational foundation of the EMF communities of P. ponderosa and P. contorta in the Deschutes National Forest and to examine soil characteristics associated with community composition. We examined EMF root tips of P. ponderosa and P. contorta in soil cores and conducted soil chemistry analysis for P. ponderosa. Results indicate that Cenococcum geophilum, Rhizopogon salebrosus, and Inocybe flocculosa are dominant in both P. contorta and P. ponderosa soil cores. Rhizopogon spp. were ubiquitous in P. ponderosa. There was no significant difference between EMF communities of P. ponderosa and P. contorta at the species level. Ordination analysis suggests that pH, Bray-phosphorus, total phosphorus (P), carbon (C), mineralizable nitrogen (N), ammonium (NH₄) and nitrate (NO₃) are driving EMF community composition in P. ponderosa. We found a significant linear relationship between EMF species richness and mineralizable N. Close

• 24. [Article] Surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) as dynamic foundation species for macroinvertebrates along the Oregon coast

  Foundation species are important components of ecosystems because they provide habitat and ameliorate stressful conditions for residents. This thesis considers the role of surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) as dynamic foundation species for macroinvertebrates along the Oregon coast Author: Moulton, Orissa M. Foundation species are important components of ecosystems because they provide habitat and ameliorate stressful conditions for residents. This thesis considers the role of surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) as dynamic foundation species on the coast of Oregon in two studies. Chapter 2, which presents an observational survey of two Phyllospadix congeners, investigates the ways in which surfgrass morphology and observed oceanographic conditions influence associated macroinvertebrate communities throughout a calendar year. Chapter 3, which presents an experimental manipulation of the system, considers the ways in which macroinvertebrates and surfgrass interact. Surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) are ubiquitous foundation species on the coast of Oregon, USA, protecting resident invertebrates from waves and providing them access to sandy substrate in an otherwise rocky habitat. We investigated whether native congeneric species function similarly by comparing the two species' resident macroinvertebrates, plant morphology, and sediment accretion at three capes that vary in oceanographic conditions. The results showed that while the macroinvertebrate abundance was the same between surfgrass species, species richness, composition, and functional groups varied considerably. P. serrulatus also had fewer tillers, rhizomes, and lower biomass per given area but greater sediment accretion than its congener P. scouleri. There was a large difference in macroinvertebrate abundance among capes, with Cape Perpetua having 2.5-3 times more animals per given area than Cape Foulweather or Cape Blanco. Overall, we found that while the two co-occurring surfgrass congeners provided functionally different habitat for resident macroinvertebrate species, regional oceanographic processes (upwelling, productivity) were more influential in determining the overall abundance and productivity of these highly diverse animal communities. The interaction between surfgrass (P. scouleri) and resident macroinvertebrates may be an example of mutual facilitation if surfgrass provides shelter and macroinvertebrate residents reciprocate with nutrient input. We hypothesized that this positive interaction could vary depending on oceanographic conditions. Sites with intermittent upwelling, low retention of upwelled waters, and high nutrient delivery to the intertidal are often dominated by macroalgae and seagrasses, while sessile invertebrates dominate intermittent upwelling sites with high water higher retention and relatively low nutrient delivery to the intertidal. We expected the positive influence of macroinvertebrates upon surfgrass to be strongest at a site with possible nutrient limitation stress. We used manipulative field experiments to examine the interaction between Phyllospadix and macroinvertebrate residents at sites known to differ in coastal oceanography. Treatments were applied in situ to vary presence/absence of residents and nutrient conditions. Results indicate that the community of macroinvertebrates varies greatly in both abundance and composition between the two sites (ca. three fold higher abundance at Strawberry Hill than at Fogarty Creek), but the amount Phyllospadix habitat available to macroinvertebrates does not vary between the two sites. This variation is therefore driven by something external to local habitat, and is likely related to regional oceanography. Furthermore, there is some evidence that macroinvertebrates do have some positive nutrient effect upon surfgrass productivity. Together, these studies provide critical descriptive information about community structure associated with the Phyllospadix system on the Oregon coast. This work contributes to the ever-increasing body of literature suggesting importance of regional oceanography in structuring coastal communities. Title: Surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) as dynamic foundation species for macroinvertebrates along the Oregon coast Author: Moulton, Orissa M. Foundation species are important components of ecosystems because they provide habitat and ameliorate stressful conditions for residents. This thesis considers the role of surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) as dynamic foundation species on the coast of Oregon in two studies. Chapter 2, which presents an observational survey of two Phyllospadix congeners, investigates the ways in which surfgrass morphology and observed oceanographic conditions influence associated macroinvertebrate communities throughout a calendar year. Chapter 3, which presents an experimental manipulation of the system, considers the ways in which macroinvertebrates and surfgrass interact. Surfgrasses (Phyllospadix spp.) are ubiquitous foundation species on the coast of Oregon, USA, protecting resident invertebrates from waves and providing them access to sandy substrate in an otherwise rocky habitat. We investigated whether native congeneric species function similarly by comparing the two species' resident macroinvertebrates, plant morphology, and sediment accretion at three capes that vary in oceanographic conditions. The results showed that while the macroinvertebrate abundance was the same between surfgrass species, species richness, composition, and functional groups varied considerably. P. serrulatus also had fewer tillers, rhizomes, and lower biomass per given area but greater sediment accretion than its congener P. scouleri. There was a large difference in macroinvertebrate abundance among capes, with Cape Perpetua having 2.5-3 times more animals per given area than Cape Foulweather or Cape Blanco. Overall, we found that while the two co-occurring surfgrass congeners provided functionally different habitat for resident macroinvertebrate species, regional oceanographic processes (upwelling, productivity) were more influential in determining the overall abundance and productivity of these highly diverse animal communities. The interaction between surfgrass (P. scouleri) and resident macroinvertebrates may be an example of mutual facilitation if surfgrass provides shelter and macroinvertebrate residents reciprocate with nutrient input. We hypothesized that this positive interaction could vary depending on oceanographic conditions. Sites with intermittent upwelling, low retention of upwelled waters, and high nutrient delivery to the intertidal are often dominated by macroalgae and seagrasses, while sessile invertebrates dominate intermittent upwelling sites with high water higher retention and relatively low nutrient delivery to the intertidal. We expected the positive influence of macroinvertebrates upon surfgrass to be strongest at a site with possible nutrient limitation stress. We used manipulative field experiments to examine the interaction between Phyllospadix and macroinvertebrate residents at sites known to differ in coastal oceanography. Treatments were applied in situ to vary presence/absence of residents and nutrient conditions. Results indicate that the community of macroinvertebrates varies greatly in both abundance and composition between the two sites (ca. three fold higher abundance at Strawberry Hill than at Fogarty Creek), but the amount Phyllospadix habitat available to macroinvertebrates does not vary between the two sites. This variation is therefore driven by something external to local habitat, and is likely related to regional oceanography. Furthermore, there is some evidence that macroinvertebrates do have some positive nutrient effect upon surfgrass productivity. Together, these studies provide critical descriptive information about community structure associated with the Phyllospadix system on the Oregon coast. This work contributes to the ever-increasing body of literature suggesting importance of regional oceanography in structuring coastal communities. Close

• 25. [Article] The influence of biophysical feedbacks and species interactions on grass invasions and coastal dune morphology in the Pacific Northwest, USA

  Biological invasions provide a unique opportunity to study the mechanisms that regulate community composition and ecosystem function. Invasive species that are also ecosystem engineers can substantially ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The influence of biophysical feedbacks and species interactions on grass invasions and coastal dune morphology in the Pacific Northwest, USA Author: Zarnetske, Phoebe Lehmann, 1979- Biological invasions provide a unique opportunity to study the mechanisms that regulate community composition and ecosystem function. Invasive species that are also ecosystem engineers can substantially alter physical features in an environment, and this can lead to cascading effects on the biological community. Aquatic-terrestrial interface ecosystems are excellent systems to study the interactions among invasive ecosystem engineers, physical features, and biological communities, because interactions among vegetation, sediment, and fluids within biophysical feedbacks create and modify distinct physical features. Further, these systems provide important ecosystem services including coastal protection afforded by their natural features. In this dissertation, I investigate the interactions and feedbacks among sand-binding beach grass species (a native, Elymus mollis (Trin.), and two non-natives, Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link and A. breviligulata Fernald), sediment supply, and dune shape along the U.S. Pacific Northwest coast. Dunes dominated by A. arenaria tend to be taller and narrower compared to the shorter, wider dunes dominated by A. breviligulata. These patterns suggest an ecological control on dune shape, and thus, coastal vulnerability to overtopping waves. I investigate the causes and consequences of these patterns with experiments, field observations, and modeling. Specifically, I investigate the relative roles of vegetation and sediment supply in shaping coastal dunes over inter-annual and multi-decadal time scales (Chapter 2), characterize a biophysical feedback between beach grass species growth habit and sediment supply (Chapter 3), uncover the mechanisms leading to beach grass coexistence and whether A. breviligulata can invade and dominate new sections of coastline (Chapter 4), and examine the non-target effects resulting from management actions that remove Ammophila for the recovery of the threatened Western Snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) (Chapter 5). I found that vegetation and sediment supply play important roles in dune shape changes across inter-annual and multi-decadal time scales (Chapter 2). I determined that a biophysical feedback between the beach grass growth habits and sediment supply results in species-specific differences in sand capture ability, and thus, is a likely explanation for differences in dune shape (Chapter 3). I found that all three beach grass species can coexist across different sediment deposition rates, and that this coexistence is largely mediated by positive direct and indirect species interactions. I further determined that A. breviligulata is capable of invading and dominating the beach grass community in regions where it is currently absent (Chapter 4). Combined, these findings indicate that A. breviligulata is an inferior dune building species as compared to A. arenaria, and suggest that in combination with sediment supply gradients, these species differences ultimately lead to differences in dune shape. Potential further invasions of A. breviligulata into southern regions of the Pacific Northwest may diminish the coastal protection ability of dunes currently dominated by A. arenaria, but this effect could be moderated by the predicted near co-dominance of A. arenaria in these lower sediment supply conditions. Finally, I found that the techniques used to remove Ammophila for plover recovery have unintended consequences for the native and endemic dune plant communities, and disrupt the natural disturbance regime of shifting sand. A whole-ecosystem restoration focus would be an improvement over the target-species approach, as it would promote the return of the natural disturbance regime, which in turn, would help recover the native biological community. The findings from this dissertation research provide a robust knowledge base that can guide further investigations of biological and physical changes to the coastal dunes, can help improve the management of dune ecosystem services and the restoration of native communities, and can help anticipate the impacts of future beach grass invasions and climate change induced changes to the coast. Title: The influence of biophysical feedbacks and species interactions on grass invasions and coastal dune morphology in the Pacific Northwest, USA Author: Zarnetske, Phoebe Lehmann, 1979- Biological invasions provide a unique opportunity to study the mechanisms that regulate community composition and ecosystem function. Invasive species that are also ecosystem engineers can substantially alter physical features in an environment, and this can lead to cascading effects on the biological community. Aquatic-terrestrial interface ecosystems are excellent systems to study the interactions among invasive ecosystem engineers, physical features, and biological communities, because interactions among vegetation, sediment, and fluids within biophysical feedbacks create and modify distinct physical features. Further, these systems provide important ecosystem services including coastal protection afforded by their natural features. In this dissertation, I investigate the interactions and feedbacks among sand-binding beach grass species (a native, Elymus mollis (Trin.), and two non-natives, Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link and A. breviligulata Fernald), sediment supply, and dune shape along the U.S. Pacific Northwest coast. Dunes dominated by A. arenaria tend to be taller and narrower compared to the shorter, wider dunes dominated by A. breviligulata. These patterns suggest an ecological control on dune shape, and thus, coastal vulnerability to overtopping waves. I investigate the causes and consequences of these patterns with experiments, field observations, and modeling. Specifically, I investigate the relative roles of vegetation and sediment supply in shaping coastal dunes over inter-annual and multi-decadal time scales (Chapter 2), characterize a biophysical feedback between beach grass species growth habit and sediment supply (Chapter 3), uncover the mechanisms leading to beach grass coexistence and whether A. breviligulata can invade and dominate new sections of coastline (Chapter 4), and examine the non-target effects resulting from management actions that remove Ammophila for the recovery of the threatened Western Snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) (Chapter 5). I found that vegetation and sediment supply play important roles in dune shape changes across inter-annual and multi-decadal time scales (Chapter 2). I determined that a biophysical feedback between the beach grass growth habits and sediment supply results in species-specific differences in sand capture ability, and thus, is a likely explanation for differences in dune shape (Chapter 3). I found that all three beach grass species can coexist across different sediment deposition rates, and that this coexistence is largely mediated by positive direct and indirect species interactions. I further determined that A. breviligulata is capable of invading and dominating the beach grass community in regions where it is currently absent (Chapter 4). Combined, these findings indicate that A. breviligulata is an inferior dune building species as compared to A. arenaria, and suggest that in combination with sediment supply gradients, these species differences ultimately lead to differences in dune shape. Potential further invasions of A. breviligulata into southern regions of the Pacific Northwest may diminish the coastal protection ability of dunes currently dominated by A. arenaria, but this effect could be moderated by the predicted near co-dominance of A. arenaria in these lower sediment supply conditions. Finally, I found that the techniques used to remove Ammophila for plover recovery have unintended consequences for the native and endemic dune plant communities, and disrupt the natural disturbance regime of shifting sand. A whole-ecosystem restoration focus would be an improvement over the target-species approach, as it would promote the return of the natural disturbance regime, which in turn, would help recover the native biological community. The findings from this dissertation research provide a robust knowledge base that can guide further investigations of biological and physical changes to the coastal dunes, can help improve the management of dune ecosystem services and the restoration of native communities, and can help anticipate the impacts of future beach grass invasions and climate change induced changes to the coast. Close

• 26. [Article] Public perceptions of wave energy on the Oregon coast

  Oregon’s coastal communities grew from the booming logging and fishing industries of the 19th century, but in recent decades have faced not only major declines in both timber and fish resources but also ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Public perceptions of wave energy on the Oregon coast Author: Hunter, Daniel A. Oregon’s coastal communities grew from the booming logging and fishing industries of the 19th century, but in recent decades have faced not only major declines in both timber and fish resources but also an increasing reliance on tourists and retirees and the resultant glut of seasonal service-sector jobs. As a burgeoning new industry, wave energy development promises not only a renaissance of family-wage jobs for coastal residents but also the opportunity to fulfill the mandate of the state’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) of 2006. However, not all coastal residents express enthusiasm for wave energy, and some feel directly threatened by specific development proposals. This study examines public perceptions of the wave energy development process among six categories of coastal stakeholders including local government, commercial fishing, tourism enterprises, recreation, environmentalists, and general citizenry (including retirees and residents not included in the above categories). Forty-seven residents across three coastal counties facing potential development were asked a set of questions during semi-structured interviews to assess: 1) an emic definition of the concept of “community well-being,” 2) the nature of residents’ knowledge and understanding of wave energy technology, and 3) the perceived potential impacts of wave energy technology on community well-being. Impacts were organized into five categories (environmental, economic, aesthetic, vocational, and psychological) utilizing an opportunity-threat analysis framework. The degree to which impacts were viewed as either threats or opportunities primarily reflected individuals’ cognitive orientation toward near-term effects in local systems or long-term effects in global systems, respectively. Findings suggest that proponents should focus outreach efforts through local newspapers and online resources to dispel unrealistic expectations of potential benefits and exaggerated predictions of potentially negative community impacts. Title: Public perceptions of wave energy on the Oregon coast Author: Hunter, Daniel A. Oregon’s coastal communities grew from the booming logging and fishing industries of the 19th century, but in recent decades have faced not only major declines in both timber and fish resources but also an increasing reliance on tourists and retirees and the resultant glut of seasonal service-sector jobs. As a burgeoning new industry, wave energy development promises not only a renaissance of family-wage jobs for coastal residents but also the opportunity to fulfill the mandate of the state’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) of 2006. However, not all coastal residents express enthusiasm for wave energy, and some feel directly threatened by specific development proposals. This study examines public perceptions of the wave energy development process among six categories of coastal stakeholders including local government, commercial fishing, tourism enterprises, recreation, environmentalists, and general citizenry (including retirees and residents not included in the above categories). Forty-seven residents across three coastal counties facing potential development were asked a set of questions during semi-structured interviews to assess: 1) an emic definition of the concept of “community well-being,” 2) the nature of residents’ knowledge and understanding of wave energy technology, and 3) the perceived potential impacts of wave energy technology on community well-being. Impacts were organized into five categories (environmental, economic, aesthetic, vocational, and psychological) utilizing an opportunity-threat analysis framework. The degree to which impacts were viewed as either threats or opportunities primarily reflected individuals’ cognitive orientation toward near-term effects in local systems or long-term effects in global systems, respectively. Findings suggest that proponents should focus outreach efforts through local newspapers and online resources to dispel unrealistic expectations of potential benefits and exaggerated predictions of potentially negative community impacts. Close

• 27. [Article] A community-based approach for evaluating tradeoffs across marine ecosystem services in Oregon

  As competing uses of our coastlines increase, natural resource agencies are employing marine spatial planning (MSP) to designate areas for different uses or activities in order to reduce conflicts while ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A community-based approach for evaluating tradeoffs across marine ecosystem services in Oregon Author: Freeman, Peter M. As competing uses of our coastlines increase, natural resource agencies are employing marine spatial planning (MSP) to designate areas for different uses or activities in order to reduce conflicts while achieving ecological, economic and social objectives. A central challenge of implementing MSP is development of a rigorous approach for analyzing tradeoffs across the provision of ecosystem services (i.e., the benefits humans receive from nature). This study develops an operational approach to this problem that is founded on community-based methods, ecological production theory, and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The approach merges ecological models with surveys to identify marine ecosystem services for use in tradeoff analysis. The approach allows for a single set of marine ecosystem services to at once be valued by local stakeholders and measured by biologists, thus connecting social and biological monitoring efforts. To develop the approach in a real-world context, I examined ecosystem services associated with nearshore marine ecosystems in Oregon, where marine reserves are being introduced for biodiversity conservation. I worked with stakeholder focus groups in three Oregon communities to identify 24 marine ecosystem services. I then linked the ecosystem services with ecological indicators, which I then consolidated to derive 11 items for use in a survey-based tradeoff analysis exercise. I administered the survey to a nonrandom sample of stakeholders in Oregon (n=31), from which their relative preferences and preference weights for ecosystem services were derived. The weights and preference measures may then be used in MSP decision-making. Furthermore, I grouped the stakeholder survey data in three ways: by location of residence (coastal vs. non-coastal), by eight categories of affiliation (e.g., business owners, conservationists, commercial and recreational fishers, etc.), and by resource use patterns. I then analyzed the various groupings of stakeholders for within- and between-group homogeneity of preferences. Results of the analyses showed that there are statistically significant variations in preferences within and between most groupings. Capturing the variations in stakeholder preferences is important when developing policies that affect different stakeholder groups. Thus, when implementing the survey instrument, I suggest random sampling of stakeholders stratified by location, affiliation, and resource use. This study provides one of the first examples of a systems-based approach to ecosystem service valuation operationalized to inform MSP, and novel features of the approach have a number of implications for advancing marine research and management. First, by using stakeholders to identify ecosystem services, the approach allows for a tailored implementation of ecosystem-based management at the community level. Second, by integrating ecological and economic information on the provision and value of ecosystem services, the approach provides relevant data for MSP decision-making during the siting, evaluation, and monitoring stages. And third, by applying both stated-preference and MCDA methods, the approach may capture the array of values represented by diverse stakeholder groups. Title: A community-based approach for evaluating tradeoffs across marine ecosystem services in Oregon Author: Freeman, Peter M. As competing uses of our coastlines increase, natural resource agencies are employing marine spatial planning (MSP) to designate areas for different uses or activities in order to reduce conflicts while achieving ecological, economic and social objectives. A central challenge of implementing MSP is development of a rigorous approach for analyzing tradeoffs across the provision of ecosystem services (i.e., the benefits humans receive from nature). This study develops an operational approach to this problem that is founded on community-based methods, ecological production theory, and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The approach merges ecological models with surveys to identify marine ecosystem services for use in tradeoff analysis. The approach allows for a single set of marine ecosystem services to at once be valued by local stakeholders and measured by biologists, thus connecting social and biological monitoring efforts. To develop the approach in a real-world context, I examined ecosystem services associated with nearshore marine ecosystems in Oregon, where marine reserves are being introduced for biodiversity conservation. I worked with stakeholder focus groups in three Oregon communities to identify 24 marine ecosystem services. I then linked the ecosystem services with ecological indicators, which I then consolidated to derive 11 items for use in a survey-based tradeoff analysis exercise. I administered the survey to a nonrandom sample of stakeholders in Oregon (n=31), from which their relative preferences and preference weights for ecosystem services were derived. The weights and preference measures may then be used in MSP decision-making. Furthermore, I grouped the stakeholder survey data in three ways: by location of residence (coastal vs. non-coastal), by eight categories of affiliation (e.g., business owners, conservationists, commercial and recreational fishers, etc.), and by resource use patterns. I then analyzed the various groupings of stakeholders for within- and between-group homogeneity of preferences. Results of the analyses showed that there are statistically significant variations in preferences within and between most groupings. Capturing the variations in stakeholder preferences is important when developing policies that affect different stakeholder groups. Thus, when implementing the survey instrument, I suggest random sampling of stakeholders stratified by location, affiliation, and resource use. This study provides one of the first examples of a systems-based approach to ecosystem service valuation operationalized to inform MSP, and novel features of the approach have a number of implications for advancing marine research and management. First, by using stakeholders to identify ecosystem services, the approach allows for a tailored implementation of ecosystem-based management at the community level. Second, by integrating ecological and economic information on the provision and value of ecosystem services, the approach provides relevant data for MSP decision-making during the siting, evaluation, and monitoring stages. And third, by applying both stated-preference and MCDA methods, the approach may capture the array of values represented by diverse stakeholder groups. Close

• 28. [Article] The Oregon Tribal Archives Institute: Providing a Professional Development and Networking Opportunity for Oregon’s Tribal Communities

  Presenters: Natalia Fernández, Oregon State University; David Lewis, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon; and Jennifer O’Neal, University of Oregon. The session chair was Larry Landis, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Oregon Tribal Archives Institute: Providing a Professional Development and Networking Opportunity for Oregon’s Tribal Communities Author: Fernández, Natalia, O'Neal, Jennifer, Lewis, David Presenters: Natalia Fernández, Oregon State University; David Lewis, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon; and Jennifer O’Neal, University of Oregon. The session chair was Larry Landis, Oregon State University Title: The Oregon Tribal Archives Institute: Providing a Professional Development and Networking Opportunity for Oregon’s Tribal Communities Author: Fernández, Natalia, O'Neal, Jennifer, Lewis, David Presenters: Natalia Fernández, Oregon State University; David Lewis, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon; and Jennifer O’Neal, University of Oregon. The session chair was Larry Landis, Oregon State University Close

• 29. [Article] Opportunities for Collaboration: Relationships between Tribal Communities and Non-Tribal Cultural Heritage Institutions

  Session Moderator: Elizabeth Joffrion, Director of Heritage Resources, Western Washington University. Session Presenters: Natalia Fernandez, Oregon Multicultural Librarian, Oregon Multicultural Archives, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Opportunities for Collaboration: Relationships between Tribal Communities and Non-Tribal Cultural Heritage Institutions Author: Fernández, Natalia Session Moderator: Elizabeth Joffrion, Director of Heritage Resources, Western Washington University. Session Presenters: Natalia Fernandez, Oregon Multicultural Librarian, Oregon Multicultural Archives, Oregon State University; Kimberly Christen, Associate Professor, Washington State University; Jennifer O'Neal, University Historian and Archivist, University of Oregon Libraries; Cheryl Hinton, Director Emeritus/ Curator of Collections, Barona Cultural Center & Museum Title: Opportunities for Collaboration: Relationships between Tribal Communities and Non-Tribal Cultural Heritage Institutions Author: Fernández, Natalia Session Moderator: Elizabeth Joffrion, Director of Heritage Resources, Western Washington University. Session Presenters: Natalia Fernandez, Oregon Multicultural Librarian, Oregon Multicultural Archives, Oregon State University; Kimberly Christen, Associate Professor, Washington State University; Jennifer O'Neal, University Historian and Archivist, University of Oregon Libraries; Cheryl Hinton, Director Emeritus/ Curator of Collections, Barona Cultural Center & Museum Close

• 30. [Article] Complicating the Rural in Oregon's Water Policymaking

  The state of Oregon is divided in important ways along rural and urban lines, including the way people make a living, individual and group relationships with the natural world, political ideologies, and ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Complicating the Rural in Oregon's Water Policymaking Author: Freeman, Misty The state of Oregon is divided in important ways along rural and urban lines, including the way people make a living, individual and group relationships with the natural world, political ideologies, and personal values. This rural-urban divide has assisted policymakers in making decisions that balance the needs of Oregonians on either side, but it does not allow for a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs of rural places. Water policy in the state of Oregon offers a timely opportunity to study the continuing relevance of the rural-urban divide as a tool for policymakers. An analysis of a suite of recent state water policies and interviews with professionals involved in water policy at the state level provide background to understand key issues affecting Oregon as a whole. Three rural case studies offer insight into how water issues are affecting different rural communities differently around the state. Research findings illustrate that rural-urban differences continue to have importance in policymaking in Oregon, particularly with respect to the challenge of community capacity and the rural-urban power dynamic in state level decisionmaking. However, of equal importance is the diversity of rural places themselves. Findings suggest that individualized consideration is important to address water issues that differ by community, such as drought, decreased snowpack, changed timing and volume of streamflows, and other issues that require custom solutions to meet diverse rural needs. Title: Complicating the Rural in Oregon's Water Policymaking Author: Freeman, Misty The state of Oregon is divided in important ways along rural and urban lines, including the way people make a living, individual and group relationships with the natural world, political ideologies, and personal values. This rural-urban divide has assisted policymakers in making decisions that balance the needs of Oregonians on either side, but it does not allow for a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs of rural places. Water policy in the state of Oregon offers a timely opportunity to study the continuing relevance of the rural-urban divide as a tool for policymakers. An analysis of a suite of recent state water policies and interviews with professionals involved in water policy at the state level provide background to understand key issues affecting Oregon as a whole. Three rural case studies offer insight into how water issues are affecting different rural communities differently around the state. Research findings illustrate that rural-urban differences continue to have importance in policymaking in Oregon, particularly with respect to the challenge of community capacity and the rural-urban power dynamic in state level decisionmaking. However, of equal importance is the diversity of rural places themselves. Findings suggest that individualized consideration is important to address water issues that differ by community, such as drought, decreased snowpack, changed timing and volume of streamflows, and other issues that require custom solutions to meet diverse rural needs. Close