This network began with research on the use of evidence-based decision-making in coastal ecosystem services management and policy in Oregon. In 2013, Kaitlin Goldsmith, a former M.S. student in the Granek Lab at Portland State University (PSU), conducted interviews with decision-makers in Oregon (NGOs, state/federal agencies) to identify scientific data gaps, important ecosystem services, and management challenges that these individuals experienced. Based on these interviews, Goldsmith and Granek put together a half-day Synthesis Session in 2014 with 22 researchers and decision makers to open lines of communication and build connections. While the interviews and synthesis session were successful, it was clear that continued engagement would require a sustained long-term collaboration. See Goldsmith’s publications below.