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Science & Policy

Science-Based Policy

Public Policy Comments

Standing Policy Statements

The Society for Freshwater Science (SFS) promotes better understanding of freshwater biota and advocates for their critical role in the natural functioning of aquatic ecosystems, which supports so many public needs and activities. Our hundreds of members are employed by private firms, universities, and government agencies throughout the world and represent a wealth of independent scientific knowledge and experience.

As professionals of aquatic sciences, we are obligated to provide clear, accurate, and timely information to encourage open discourse, both professional and public, and to participate in the debate that contributes to informed choices by the public. We are also obligated to select for ourselves and to recommend to others courses of action we believe will protect and rehabilitate the biological diversity and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

The policy of SFS is to advocate for the use of the best available science for decision-making relating to freshwater ecosystems and to communicate this science as necessary to inform the public, managers, and decision-makers. The SFS Bylaws indicate that the SFS President is responsible for the business of the Society and is thereby entrusted to write letters on behalf of the society in support of scientific institutions or issues that promote SFS purpose of understanding the benthic biological community and aquatic ecosystems.

Organizational Associations

SFS is also a member of the Consortium of Aquatic Science Societies (CASS) and American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS). SFS participates in policy development and statements with both, adding the Society's voice to joint statements issued by these overarching organizations. 

Member Engagement

Interested in communicating with your policymaker? While SFS drafts statements on behalf of our membership, SFS Statements delivered by an actual constituent are given much more consideration by legislators. We encourage you to get involved, by speaking to community groups or by calling, meeting, or writing to your elected officials.

Find your elected officials

Helpful Tools

The AAAS Guide to working with Congress

AGU Policy Action Center

ESA Rapid Response Team

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Advocacy Toolkit