Spatial Informatics Group—Natural Assets Laboratory - signal

About

Big data & network governance
for resilient landscapes

We are a Partner Organization

SIG-NAL brings together people and data. We build networks that help policymakers and practitioners harness the revolution in environmental information. We specialize in collaborative decision support for interventions that enable landscapes and communities to adapt and thrive amid environmental and human-driven change. Our work supports nature-based and adaptive strategies for managing wildfire, drought, flooding, deforestation, and other threats to the integrity of ecosystems and the human communities they sustain.

Our History

SIG-NAL was founded in 2012 to advance the public benefit activities of its sister organization, the Spatial Informatics Group. Since that time, we have supported partners in developing data-driven strategies for landscape stewardship across natural and urban landscapes. From an initial focus on ecosystem services and natural assets, SIG-NAL has expanded its mission to address complex, large-scale challenges through collaborative networks, at local to global scales.

SIG Relationship

SIG-NAL operates as a distinct entity from SIG but is closely linked through the appointment by the SIG Managing Principal of the Board of Directors President. SIG-NAL often partners with SIG on projects that allow us to harness SIG’s expertise in cutting-edge analytics and science-delivery platforms.

Our Team

Our interdisciplinary team at SIG-NAL has deep-seated expertise in natural resource policy and planning, collaboration and facilitation, urban and landscape ecology, and data science. Through data-driven, community-centered approaches, we develop solutions that benefit both people and nature.

Executive Leadership & Operations

Program Leadership

Project & Technical

Board of Directors

Dr. David Saah Chair

William Price Vice Chair

Dr. John Gunn Treasurer

Dr. Rodman Linn Director

Alicia Sullivan Director

How

We work

Network Network governance and collaboration

We convene and lead networks that connect decision-makers, data scientists, and practitioners at local to global scales. Our staff are skilled in project management that establish trust, improve coordination, and achieve collective impact across sectors and scales.

Data Data science and analytics

We pilot and scale innovations in geospatial analysis and environmental monitoring– and deliver results through accessible decision-support platforms.

Policy Policy and planning

We co-develop innovative analytical workflows for policy and planning processes with practitioners. And we advocate for policies that create the enabling conditions for strategic, data-driven landscape stewardship.

Capacity Capacity building

We facilitate technology transfer and disseminate innovations through trusted networks, equipping practitioners with the tools and skills needed to apply solutions at scale.

Core Principles

Pragmatism

We are nonpartisan and solutions-focused. Our work prioritizes proven approaches, practical implementation, and measurable outcomes.

Trust Trust and care

Our partnerships are grounded in trust, care, and long-term commitment. We work deliberately and responsibly with communities, institutions, and collaborators.

Collaboration

We believe complex challenges can only be addressed at scale through strong networks. Our work is built on collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and geographies.

Open science

We are committed to making data, methods, and science accessible, transparent, and reproducible, enabling shared learning and broader impact.

Environmental Stewardship

We are dedicated to advancing sustainable land management and nature-based solutions that support a more resilient future for people and ecosystems.

Inclusiveness

We value diverse perspectives, lived experience, and ways of knowing. Inclusive collaboration strengthens both the quality and durability of the solutions we advance.