NSB-98-161
August 12, 1998
revised

CHARGE
COMMITTEE ON PROGRAMS AND PLANS
TASK FORCE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

On March 19, 1998, the National Science Board approved a resolution (NSB-98-65) in which it noted the need for expanded environmental research, education, and assessment. The resolution stated that NSF has a legitimate role in these activities, and that this role can be exercised most constructively in the context of a strategy coordinated by the White House agencies and the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC).

The Task Force on the Environment is established to assist the Foundation in defining the scope of its role with respect to environmental research, education, and assessment, and in determining the best means of implementing activities related to this area. The task force will report to the Committee on Programs and Plans (CPP) and will consist of Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Chair, Dr. Mary K. Gaillard, Dr. Solow, and Dr. Warren Washington, and will also include Dr. Mary Clutter, Assistant Director for Biological Sciences and Dr. Robert Corell, Assistant Director for Geosciences. Dr. John Hopcroft, NSB consultant, will serve as consultant to the task force.

The Task Force will:

Review the scope of current NSF activities related to research, education, and assessment on the environment;

Develop guidance for the National Science Foundation at the policy level that will be used for designing an appropriate portfolio of activities, consistent with the overall NSTC strategy, the goals of the NSF Strategic Plan, and activities of other agencies and organizations that support related programs; and

Complete a report, with final recommendations, to be submitted to the Board no later than its May 5-7, 1999 meeting.

Eamon M. Kelly
Chairman