Jeffrey T. Morisette

As the manager of the Rocky Mountain Research Station Human Dimensions program I work to understand the complexities, nuances, and value of the research being done in our program; working to facilitate and promote that research to the furthest extent possible.  I pay particularly close attention to developing relationships and connections within the Forest Service and the broader stakeholder community so that, collectively, we can ensure that the program's research helps inform critical land management practices.

While working with the USGS, I helped develop the "Resource for Advanced Modeling" (which is a collaborative workspace used to support stakeholder engagement and co-production of knowledge) and the "Software for Assisted Habitat Modeling" (which uses a scientific workflow paradigm to facilitate and expedite habitat suitability modeling). I also played a leadership role in establishing the initial Science Plan for the Department of the Interior's North Central Climate Science Center. The plan established three foundational science areas: climate, ecology, and human dimensions.

While at NASA, I worked on the validation of satellite-based global vegetation product and using such products to produce regional habitat suitability maps.  I also worked on the validation and refinement of satellite-based fire detection and burnt area mapping. 

Finally, I have maintained an interest in multi-scale phenological measurements; observing and analyzing phenological data to better understand trends and drivers of plant and animal patterns throughout the year which, in turn, can support agricultural and natural resource management and decision-making.

 

My research interests include:

• mechanisms for the co-production of knowledge and translational ecology
• increasing the benefits of federal monitoring nextworks and national assessments
• using the best available science to inform climate-smart conservation and land management.

I believe the most impactful aspect of my work is to make sure the scientists in the Human Dimensions program have the resources and support they need to do what they do best.  As described in their individual profiles, they are all doing important and impactful work.  They also have developed key relationships with the managers and communities they serve. The most important part of my job is to promote and leverage that work as much as possible to achieve Forest Service, USDA, and national goals.