loading page

Connecting Science to Sustained Impact: SERVIR’s Journey in Earth Observations for Water Resources Management and Future Pathways
  • +14
  • Chinmay Deval,
  • Eric Anderson,
  • Meryl Kruskopf,
  • Ashutosh Limaye,
  • Biplov Bhandari,
  • Amanda Markert,
  • Africa Flores-Anderson,
  • Denis Muthike,
  • Reetwika Basu,
  • Manish Shrestha,
  • Miguel Laverde-Barajas,
  • Jorge Luis Sanchez-Lozano,
  • Emil Cherrington,
  • Jamilatou Chaibou Begou,
  • Betzy E Hernandez Sandoval,
  • Robert Griffin,
  • Daniel Irwin
Chinmay Deval
SERVIR Science Coordination Office

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile
Eric Anderson
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Author Profile
Meryl Kruskopf
SERVIR Science Coordination Office
Author Profile
Ashutosh Limaye
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Author Profile
Biplov Bhandari
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Author Profile
Amanda Markert
SERVIR Science Coordination Office
Author Profile
Africa Flores-Anderson
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Author Profile
Denis Muthike
University of Colorado Boulder
Author Profile
Reetwika Basu
SERVIR Science coordination Office
Author Profile
Manish Shrestha
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development
Author Profile
Miguel Laverde-Barajas
Asian Disaster Preparedness Center
Author Profile
Jorge Luis Sanchez-Lozano
Brigham Young University
Author Profile
Emil Cherrington
University of Alabama
Author Profile
Jamilatou Chaibou Begou
8AGRHYMET Centre Régional Climatique pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest et le Sahel
Author Profile
Betzy E Hernandez Sandoval
SERVIR Science Coordination Office
Author Profile
Robert Griffin
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Author Profile
Daniel Irwin
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Author Profile

Abstract

Effective management of water resources and mitigation of water-related disasters are essential for human well-being, ecosystem health, and socio-economic development. However, the challenge lies in translating scientific insights into actions and decisions, resulting in a disconnect between knowledge production and practical decision-making. SERVIR, a collaborative initiative by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA), addresses this gap by partnering with regional organizations worldwide to integrate Earth Observation (EO) data into practical applications. This paper evaluates SERVIR’s experience translating cutting-edge science into actionable information for water security/water resources management through a collaborative approach, co-developing tools within diverse cultural contexts, and emphasizing capacity building. By discussing case studies and engagement strategies from SERVIR’s extensive experience, we highlight its collaborative efforts with regional bodies, governmental agencies, and other partners to transform water resources research into practical insights, supporting decision-making at various levels. This paper underscores the importance of continuous capacity-building workshops, stakeholder engagement, and adapting to technological advancements, such as cloud computing, for sustained impact. It also addresses the need for effective translators to navigate the complex EO toolkit, ensuring the appropriate application of tools for specific water management decisions. By reflecting on SERVIR’s journey, this paper offers guidance for decision-makers, practitioners, and researchers, encouraging dialogue, innovation, and collective action to support reliable access to water for all and sustainable water management. The insights and opportunities derived from SERVIR’s experience provide a framework for future initiatives, advancing water security and water resource management strategies.
10 Jul 2024Submitted to ESS Open Archive
11 Jul 2024Published in ESS Open Archive