two quite distinct implicit definitions are in use in the program. In one, it means translating the products of climate science into forms that are useful for decision makers; in the other, it centrally includes establishing communication between climate information producers and users that ensures that the information produced addresses users’ decision needs and gets to them in useful ways. Evidence from multiple fields demonstrates that potentially valuable scientific information often goes unused, largely because of inadequate prior communication between the producers and users of the information. Considering this evidence, we recommend that SARP and NOAA adopt a broad definition of “decision support” that emphasizes communication.

The first question above states a mission goal far too ambitious for any program as small as SARP ($2.6 million in fiscal 2006). That mission is too large even with the combined budgets of SARP and two related programs, Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessment (RISA) and Transition of Research to Applications for Climate Services (TRACS) (about $7 million in fiscal 2006). SARP must therefore focus its efforts to make the best use of the limited resources available.

With SARP’s very limited current and likely future budgets, we recommend that the program emphasize a few critical activities over the next several years. We recommend use-inspired science, workshops, and pilot programs, all directed to the basic need to make climate-related information more useful and to get it used appropriately.