Jerde will support interdisciplinary, multi-pronged research to better understand and document the many values of the Mekong River through assistance in experimental design and data analysis emerging from the research program. The broader Wonders of the Mekong (WOM) Program will combine an understanding of the current science on biodiversity, climate, and hydrology of the Mekong River Basin with a historical and archeological understanding of this system to document the important role of conservation for development and options for a sustainable development pathway. Emphasis will be placed on multi-disciplinary research into the complexities inherent in balancing current development needs with long-term viability of the Mekong as a precious natural capital asset. Jerde will support the core research program comprised of experts in ecology, limnology, anthropology, archeology, fisheries, ecosystem services, modeling, spatial analysis, mapping, policy, economics, gender issues, and climate change. Jerde will provide direction for long-term research priorities and programs, scientific advice, and scientific outputs. Specifically, Jerde will contribute his expertise in probability and experimental design, population modeling, biodiversity, fisheries management, and developing cross-cutting networks that emphasize new technology.
Jerde is expected to:
1. Participate in monthly Internet connected program meetings, 2. Contribute updates for annual and final reports, 3. Contribute to the analysis of data and writing of manuscripts, 4. Build additional research proposals to further the scientific needs emerging from this proposal.
Year 1 funding is to support participation in program meetings, support the development of a mark-recapture study, let by Dr. Zeb Hogan, to evaluate the fishery take from Dai on the Tonle Sap river in Cambodia, and develop science proposals to support research needs emerging from the this project.
Year 2-5 funding will be contingent on delivery of Year 1 deliverables, availability of continuation funding by USAID, and active engagement with the WOM program. New scopes of work will be created each year that continuation funding is available.