Sound Future comprises four elements, all building on existing programs and all engaging the public in Puget Sound restoration:
Technical Assistance
Expand and diversify technical expertise and communications to help implement the state’s Puget Sound Action Agenda.
Sound Future will help residents, businesses and decision makers find pragmatic solutions to high-priority concerns, such as managing stormwater, reducing pollution, protecting and restoring habitat, preserving clean water, protecting fish and wildlife and promoting sustainable development.
Citizen Science
Move beyond traditional volunteerism to support a coherent, world-class citizen science network, engaging residents in collecting rigorous scientific data to monitor key natural and cultural indicators of Puget Sound health.
Sound Future will build on current efforts to identify challenges to the effective application of citizen science and deliver critical training, assistance and information on best practices and evaluation to citizen science programs throughout the Sound.
Volunteer Network
Train and support community-based volunteer networks, such as WSU Beach Watchers and Kitsap Beach Naturalists, in counties throughout Puget Sound.
This initiative will allow UW to play a key role in developing a Sound-wide network of volunteers who understand, appreciate and help protect marine life and habitats and serve as public stewards and educators.
Faculty and Student Engagement
Create opportunities for faculty and students to engage the public and improve environmental literacy.
Sound Future will link university scientists and students directly to communities that are affected by and benefit from their research and scientific expertise. For example, Sound Science seminars highlight UW research on a range of issues affecting the environment, economy and lifestyle of Puget Sound residents.
