Floodplain meadow partnership: A working model of effective communication between practitioners, academics and policymakers

The article describes a model system for facilitating the transfer of knowledge between researchers and practitioners. The system described has a focus on a single habitat, floodplain meadows, and a case is made for replicating the model for other habitats. Even a single habitat has a wide variety of stakeholders, but a focused partnership with representation across the stakeholder community can prove a useful vehicle for disseminating knowledge and best practice. The structure of the partnership is set out from a steering group to local representatives, and the division of tasks between specialists is explained. The partnership is UK-based and UK-focused, yet has an international dimension. The longevity of the partnership and the intensity of interaction with stakeholders are concluded to be important and suggested as a model for others to follow.