From Yellowstone to Yukon: Combining science and advocacy to shape public opinion and policy

Citizens are increasingly forming networks based on shared ideas and norms to influence environmental policy-making. While scientific information represents a key source of legitimacy within this realm, little research exists on the relationship between science and advocacy. Additionally, more research is needed on the role contextual factors play in mobilizing collective action.; This research examines the roles of scientific knowledge and expertise in the evolution of an international environmental network---the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y). It also explores the implications of globalization, regional transitions and telecommunications for environmental networking.; My research findings are based on analysis of data gathered as a participant observer at network meetings, on interviews conducted with participants and on analysis of archival data and electronic communications produced by network participants. This case study contributes to the literature in several ways.; First, it examines the role of scientific knowledge and expertise in environmental organizing. I find that science and activism interact in a complex, iterative process within the network. Power is not rooted in epistemic communities or scientific consensus, but in network processes that foster the ability to act cohesively through consensual communication. Discursive strategies are based on scientific knowledge; however, they are more strongly grounded on shared beliefs and values.; My research also examines the role of contextual variables in environmental organizing. I find that factors such as globalization, regional transitions, the establishment of international governmental institutions and advances in telecommunications provide opportunities and incentives for networks to emerge, and strongly condition how network discourses are framed.; Practical applications: In our increasingly globalized world, the decision-making power of nation-states is being devolved to subnational policy-makers, who are commonly confronted with contradictory arguments regarding public resource management. Therefore, finding ways for citizens to collaborate in decision-making is extremely important. Providing a case study of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative may facilitate the development of similar collaborative efforts. Additionally, my research demonstrates that international governmental regimes and non-governmental networks display comparable dynamics and face similar obstacles to cooperation. Therefore, this research establishes a theoretical groundwork for comparative analysis upon which additional case studies may build.