FR 2021-03463

The document at hand is an official notice from the National Science Board (NSB) regarding meetings scheduled for February 23 and 24, 2021. These meetings, conducted via videoconference, are a part of NSB’s regular activities to discuss and make decisions on matters pertaining to national science policies. The meetings are partially open to the public, who can observe via the National Science Foundation's YouTube channel. The agenda encompasses a variety of topics, from updates on racial equity initiatives and STEM graduate student retention to future budget plans for 2022.

General Summary

The notice outlines the meeting schedule along with the topics to be discussed. It meticulously mentions which parts are open or closed to the public, directing interested individuals to the necessary resources for virtual attendance. The document also provides detailed contact information for technical support and further inquiries, ensuring ease of access and transparency.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several concerns arise upon reviewing the document:

• Lack of Clarity on Financial Matters: The document does not provide detailed financial insights into significant items such as the "National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON)" and the "Gemini Spending Cap Increase". These might be critical areas requiring scrutinized financial review.

• Complex Terminology and Acronyms: The document employs technical language and acronyms like A&F (Awards and Facilities) and CS (Committee on Strategy) without introductory context or explanation, potentially making it less accessible to the general public.

• Vague Descriptions of Initiatives: Details on initiatives like the "NSF Translation and Innovation Activities" and "NSF's Missing Millions Efforts" are sparse, which could imply complex or significant initiatives lacking comprehensive clarification.

Impact on the Public

The document's availability of open sessions can increase public transparency and engagement, allowing citizens to stay informed about NSB's decision-making processes. However, the technical nature and intricate content might deter those not thoroughly versed in NSF's work from fully understanding the implications.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Scientific Community and Researchers: The document addresses updates and policies impacting research infrastructure and funding, which directly affects stakeholders within the scientific and academic communities. The outcomes of the discussions, especially on budget allocations, can significantly influence ongoing and future research projects.

• General Public: By holding open meetings, the NSB attempts to maintain transparency, although the complexity might limit accessibility and comprehensibility for the average citizen.

• Policy Makers and Government Agencies: Insights gleaned from these meetings could inform national policies on science and research funding, directly influencing governmental priorities and resource allocation.

In conclusion, while the NSB's effort to provide open access to parts of the meeting exemplifies transparency, the document's intricacies and lack of explanatory context may hamper its broader intelligibility. Engaging more effectively with the public might require simplifying language and providing contextual information on technical terms and acronyms.