A sometimes-neglected requirement of successful cross-boundary collaboration is identifying the boundaries: geographic, ecological, disciplinary, social, epistemological, and possibly others. If these are successfully identified and bridged, research collaborations can lead to successful outcomes for the collaborators: scientists, land managers, and sometimes other stakeholders. But is it enough to think globally but act only locally? How can the results of rangeland research collaborations be translated and transmitted beyond the scope of the original research?
Results/Conclusions
Studies conducted over the past two decades into the factors that influence uptake of new rangeland management ideas and practices suggest that traditional modes of knowledge transfer such as university Extension, agency technical reports, and occasional webinars can be effective at increasing understanding, but may be less effective at stimulating changes in management or behavior that lead to more ecologically sustainable outcomes. However, the same rules of engagement that govern research-manager partnerships can also be applied to knowledge transfer. By drawing upon trust among peers, and by respecting and acting upon multiple forms of knowledge – not only about ecosystems but also logistical, socio-political and other aspects of human systems – partnerships can not only circumvent barriers to change, but can sustain their efforts long enough to see their ideas spread beyond the original boundaries, providing tangible outcomes for both ecosystems and society.