In the future, scientists, policy-makers, and the public will have to collaborate more effectively if scientific advance is to rapidly improve the human condition. The AMS Policy Program is dedicated to facilitating such collaborations, bridging the gap between meteorological research and its applications. In particular, the Program seeks to both inform policy-makers on the state of research in atmospheric sciences and to educate scientists on the policy process. By fostering a deeper understanding of the frameworks and constraints under which each community operates, the Program helps to make the national environmental policy process more effective.

Toward this end, the AMS Policy Program has five strategic goals:

1. Prepare scientists to contribute effectively to the policy process;

2. Keep policy-makers abreast of scientific advances and their relevance;

3. Foster meaningful collaborations between scientists and policy-makers;

4. Develop the needed policy research;

5. Share our vision and results.

AMS addresses these goals through an Environmental Science Seminar Series, the Summer Policy Colloquium, development of policy curricula for use at universities, a policy study series, a Congressional Science Fellowship (co-sponsored with UCAR), and policy publications. Topics covered in the Environmental Science Seminar Series include space weather, climate change, communication, energy, drought, hurricanes, and disasters. Many of these topics have been addressed in greater depth through forums in the policy study series.

Since 2001, more than people have come to Washington, D.C. for a ten-day immersion in the policy process through the Summer Policy Colloquium. Of these, more than 70 participants were students who were supported through an NSF grant. During the course, participants are introduced to the budget process, Congress and the White House, ethics, the media, and important issues in atmospheric sciences. The Colloquium continues to evolve..

During the past year, the policy study series has examined space weather and aviation; disasters and the continuity of medical and public health services; water resources, carbon policies, and the valuation of Earth system science and science-based services. Several of these topics are explored in other talks at this symposium; the valuation forum receives special attention here.

The presentation will also report on AMS efforts to establish a journal on socio-economic impacts and policy.