Successful scientific knowledge transfer in conservation projects depends on how the science integrates with local grassroots knowledge bases. Weak research comes about through a lack of adept research units. Science-based grassroots knowledge is based on assumption and experience. A new model of the science-policy interface, RIU (Research-Integration-Utilisation) model is used in this case study. This study identifies two phases of knowledge transfer in mangrove conservation plan in Segara Anakan area, Indonesia. The first phase is started by initial research in order to form a basis from which to develop the conservation's programmes. The integration of research findings faced strong challenges from grassroots communities resulted from involving the elite as the allies of ADB (Asia Development Bank). Grassroots communities were successful in delivering their message, whereas the scientific sector did not produce good problem solving research, as it was oriented towards the wishes of established elite communities. The second phase is started by review study by which the elites were defining the results from the study as reflecting the public's interests. Therefore, they planned to use the research finding as a basis from which to implement the diversion plan. Nevertheless, they changed their decision due to the tension created by the increasing resistance from grassroots communities. Grassroots politics, in this instance, was more successful in the decision making process. The subsequent elite were more sensitive to grassroots politics than the ADB and their allies. © 2016 Elsevier Ltd