Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 20 Sep 2001 to 21 Sep 2001
There are 22 messages totalling 1341 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. A question - topic for discussion
2. Farmers' rights: Terminator shmerminator
3. Plant Ecophysiology poistion - University of Wyoming
4. Ecosystems Plant Ecologist position - University of Wyoming
5. Announcement of graduate assistantship
6. Assistant/Associate Professor Population Ecology
7. Farmers' rights threatened by...the defense of science (2)
8. Position: Assistant Professor
9. algae exercises (2)
10. internship in USA
11. Brazil's Atlantic Workshop
12. Terminator was not Monsanto..but still risky?
13. New study shows that salmon 'feed' the very forests that nurture them
14. Graduate research assistantship available, Southern Illinois Univ. -
Carbondale
15. positions available
16. PHD GRADUATE POSITION AVAILABLE
17. Two tenure-track positions
18. Faculty Position - Plant/Algal Evolutionary Biology
19. Registration - 63rd Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference
20. History of air pollution research
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 06:13:21 -0300
From: Matthew Warren <mmww@COQUI.NET>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
Hello forum-
This is a very profound and complex philosophical question, which will prove
interesting to try and resolve without the benefit of true dialogue.
To me, the question is: What does "the world" have to lose if scientists
were morally obligated to research short term solutions to long term social
problems?
Also, who can decide what is morally justified, and what is not? What
morally justifies the imposition of western belief systems on people that we
define as "unequal"? And mostly, what morally justifies the overly
consumptive lifestyle that westerners live?
I guess my point is that not only would scientists, confectioners, and many
other professions be deemed immoral, but along this line of thinking, the
western lifestyle of overconsumption would be considered immoral. Gandhi
called this [wasting of the world's resources] violence against nature.
Finally, technological breakthroughs associated with the industrial
revolution, allowed people in the U.S. to plow up 33 million acres of native
vegetation on the southern plains in a decade or so. The sodbusters used
technological advancements "for the good" of soceity (to produce more
wheat), but severely lacked basic ecological knowledge that could have
predicted the largest ecological disaster in N. American history, which led
to widespread suffering of millions. There are many other examples (Basic
ecological research led to the recognition of the toxicity of DDT). We
should learn from our mistakes, as with nature's "curveballs" we never know
when one of our "noble" pursuits will blow up in our face, and basic
ecological knowledge can help fix it.
Thanks for reading-
Matt Warren
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 06:54:36 -0700
From: David Thomson <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
Subject: Re: Farmers' rights: Terminator shmerminator
Rick and others,
I think you are getting off the point Rick. I am not concerned with the
Terminator; that product would be an asset in this case, as Vicky pointed
out. What I am concerned with is (1) the court's consideration of
biological entities as company property and (2) the court's agreement (with
Montsano in this case) that neighboring farmers of GM soy farmers are liable
for wind-born GM seed germinating in their fields! I thought this was
madness but maybe some of you did not read the article. I will check the
rest of today's posts to see if anyone got the point and wishes to discuss
it.
David Thomson
-----Original Message-----
From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
[mailto:ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU]On Behalf Of Rick Roush
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 11:23 PM
To: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
Subject: Farmers' rights: Terminator was not Monsanto's
Dear Vicky:
This story has become a good example of how activist groups (in this case,
a group with the acronym RAFI) can distort facts so effectively and with
enough repetition so that no one remembers what actually happened. I am
not writing to defend Monsanto (though in fairness, they probably deserve
to be convicted and demonised only for those things they have actually
done), but to illustrate the abuses of facts and science that are occurring
these days.
First and most importantly, the technology was NEVER owned or developed by
Monsanto (even though RAFI led people to believe that it was). It was
developed by the USDA under an agreement with Delta Pine, a large cotton
seed company without Monsanto's multinational image (would you have cared
as much if the technology had been linked to Delta Pine but not Monsanto?).
Monsanto's only link to this technology was that it once tried to buy Delta
Pine, only to lose $80 million in penalties when the Justice Dept applied
such anti-trust restrictions that Monsanto decided it wasn't worth it (just
for comparison, Monsanto was then worth $24 billion and with Delta Pine
would have controlled about 80% of the US cotton seed market; Bill Gates at
the time was personally worth about $100 billion and controlled 90% of the
home software market. Where was anti-trust more relevant?).
It was called Terminator by RAFI in an obvious attempt (like Frankenfoods)
to link GM to images of some nightmarish future. In the GM literature,
they were called GURTS (Genetic Use Restriction Technologies).
With respect to uses, this was being developed by a cotton seed company
with specific interests in cotton, a cash crop wherever it's grown, such
that Delta Pine could make sure that people growing a crop for cash would
have to pay something each year if they benefited from the varieties.
Economically and ethically, this is not obviously different from the 40
million hectares that have been planted annually for decades in the US to
hybrid corn, where farmers have decided that the yield potential is worth
paying a bit extra for seed.
Monsanto agreed while it was still negotiating to buy Delta Pine to drop
the GURTS. Delta Pine and the USDA, however, have patented the technology
with provisos intended to preserve farmer's rights (eg., not to use the
technology in any varieties avaiable before 2003).
Finally, my group have tried to develop ways to use GURTS in weed control.
What we learned is that because most plants have very limited pollen flow,
one couldn't achieve useful levels of sterility. We then realised that
GURTS would also never have been a threat to sterilise neighboring crops.
On the other hand, GURTS are a way to prevent GM contamination of
neighboring crops. RAFI campaigned against even this use of GURTS on the
grounds that any uses where bad for farmer saved seed.
Rick
>Dear Ecologgers:
>
>It seems to me that about a year ago there was an issue with a product
>that Monsanto produced - the Terminator seed. This was a crop seed with
a
>GM trait (forgive me, I don't remember the trait or crop; perhaps Bt pes
>resistance) that was also engineered to yield plants that failed to
>produce new (or viable) seed. The issue was that each year farmers wou
d
>have to buy new GM seed from Monsanto. This was perceived by many to be
>quite unfair to the farmers wishing to use the GM seed, as they
>traditionally could harvest new seed each year and not have to repurchas
>every year. I believe that Monsanto pulled the product off the market.
>Considering the case below, would it be more equitable to have Terminato
>genes (in this case non-viable pollen or non-flowering crops) in GM seed
>so that other farmers' crops wouldn't be contaminated? The farmers
>choosing the GM seeds do have the option to purchase non-GM seed. So is
>it unfair to them to have a Terminator gene in their GM seed? It seems
>highly unjust to me that a farmer whose crops were inadvertently crossed
>with GM pollen should have to pay for it.
>
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 08:38:48 -0700
From: "g.K. Brown" <gkbrown@UWYO.EDU>
Subject: Plant Ecophysiology poistion - University of Wyoming
Plant Ecology
The Department of Botany, University of Wyoming, seeks to fill two
full-time, 9-month, tenure-track faculty positions starting 27 August
2002. Minimum requirements for both positions include: a Ph.D. at the
time of appointment, an ability to develop and maintain a strong
extramurally funded research program, and a commitment to high quality
teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Preferred
candidates will have at least one year of postdoctoral experience with
demonstrated productivity and evidence of potential for independent
research.
In addition to the position-specific duties listed below, each
successful candidate will develop a graduate course in their specialty,
teach in the general biology program, advise students, and participate in
the usual service activities. Where appropriate, outreach education may
be used to meet instructional obligations.
Plant Ecophysiologist
Assistant Professor (Reopened)
Specific duties will include development of a productive research program
in plant ecophysiology, and teach an upper division course in plant
ecophysiology. Candidates with multiple years of postdoctoral/faculty
experience and an established record of research excellence may qualify
for appointment at the rank of Associate Professor.
Terrestrial Ecosystems Plant Ecologist
Assistant Professor
Specific duties will include development of a productive research program
in terrestrial ecosystems plant ecology, and teach an upper division
course in vegetation ecology.
To apply, submit a letter of application that indicates the position of
interest, curriculum vitae, selected reprints, statements of research and
teaching interests, and arrange to have at least three letters of
reference sent to: Mr. Terry Shearin, Search Coordinator, Department of
Botany, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071-3165. Review of
applications will begin October 5, 2001. The University of Wyoming is an
equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.
Greg Brown
Department of Botany
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY 82071-3165
telephone: 307-766-2214
fax: 307-766-2851
email: gkbrown@uwyo.edu
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 08:40:01 -0700
From: "g.K. Brown" <gkbrown@UWYO.EDU>
Subject: Ecosystems Plant Ecologist position - University of Wyoming
Plant Ecology
The Department of Botany, University of Wyoming, seeks to fill two
full-time, 9-month, tenure-track faculty positions starting 27 August
2002. Minimum requirements for both positions include: a Ph.D. at the
time of appointment, an ability to develop and maintain a strong
extramurally funded research program, and a commitment to high quality
teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Preferred
candidates will have at least one year of postdoctoral experience with
demonstrated productivity and evidence of potential for independent
research.
In addition to the position-specific duties listed below, each
successful candidate will develop a graduate course in their specialty,
teach in the general biology program, advise students, and participate in
the usual service activities. Where appropriate, outreach education may
be used to meet instructional obligations.
Plant Ecophysiologist
Assistant Professor (Reopened)
Specific duties will include development of a productive research program
in plant ecophysiology, and teach an upper division course in plant
ecophysiology. Candidates with multiple years of postdoctoral/faculty
experience and an established record of research excellence may qualify
for appointment at the rank of Associate Professor.
Terrestrial Ecosystems Plant Ecologist
Assistant Professor
Specific duties will include development of a productive research program
in terrestrial ecosystems plant ecology, and teach an upper division
course in vegetation ecology.
To apply, submit a letter of application that indicates the position of
interest, curriculum vitae, selected reprints, statements of research and
teaching interests, and arrange to have at least three letters of
reference sent to: Mr. Terry Shearin, Search Coordinator, Department of
Botany, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071-3165. Review of
applications will begin October 5, 2001. The University of Wyoming is an
equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.
Gregory K. Brown
Professor and Head
Department of Botany
University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming 82071-3165
Telephone: 307-766-2214
FAX: 307-766-2851
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 07:55:54 -0500
From: Mike Day <Day@APOLLO.UMENFA.MAINE.EDU>
Subject: Announcement of graduate assistantship
<color><param>0100,0100,0100</param>Two new assistantships
for Ph.D. or M.S.
students in tree
physiology<bold>
</bold>As part of a new collaborative study between the University of
Maine and Oregon State University, two three-year assistantships
are available for to support Ph.D. or M.S. students. One student
would pursue the degree in the Department of
<color><param>FF00,0000,0000</param>Forest Ecosystem
Science<color><param>0100,0100,0100</param> at Maine
(<color><param>FF00,0000,0000</param>http://www.umaine.ed
/fes/default.htm<colo
r><param>0100,0100,0100</param>), under
the direction of Drs. Michael Day and Michael Greenwood, and the
other would be in the Department of Forest Science at Oregon
State University ({ HYPERLINK "http://www.cof.orst.edu/cof/fs/"
<FontFamily><param>Times New
Roman</param>}<underline><color><param>0000,0000,FF
0</param><FontFamily><param
>Arial</param>http://www.cof.orst.edu/cof/fs/</underline><
color><param>0100,010
0,0100</param>), under the direction
of Dr. Barbara Bond.
The NSF-funded study will use grafting treatments to test
hypotheses concerning extrinsic vs. intrinsic control of aging
processes in red spruce (in Maine) and Douglas-fir (in Oregon).
The assistantships include monthly stipends and tuition.
We are looking for highly-motivated students with a strong
academic background in tree physiology or a related field and a
career interest in research science. The students could start the
program as early as spring, 2002, and must start no later than
summer, 2002.
Persons interested in working at Oregon State should contact
Barbara Bond ({ HYPERLINK "mailto:barbara.bond@orst.edu"
<FontFamily><param>Times New
Roman</param>}<underline><color><param>0000,0000,FF
0</param><FontFamily><param
>Arial</param>barbara.bond@orst.edu</underline><color><
param>0100,0100,0100</pa
ram>); those interested in
working at the University of Maine should contact Michael Day
({ HYPERLINK "mailto:day@apollo.umenfa.main.edu" <FontFamily><param>
Times New
Roman</param>}<underline><color><param>0000,0000,FF
0</param><FontFamily><param
>Ar
ial</param>day@umenfa.maine.edu</underline><color><para
>0100,0100,0100</param>)
.
<nofill>
Michael E. Day, Ph.D.
day@umenfa.maine.edu
Department of Forest Ecosystem Science
5755 Nutting Hall
University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469-5755
(207) 581-2889 FAX: (207) 581-4257
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 14:05:26 -0400
From: Melanie Devore <mdevore@MAIL.GCSU.EDU>
Subject: Assistant/Associate Professor Population Ecology
ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR POPULATION ECOLOGY.
The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Georgia College
and State University seeks candidates in the area of Population Ecology. A
Ph.D. in Population Ecology or a related field such as wildlife management
is required for this tenure-track position. The successful candidate will
teach introductory courses in biology as well as upper and graduate level
courses in population ecology, biostatistics, and/or computer modeling and
other subjects specific to his/her research. We especially seek candidates
with interests in field as well as theoretical ecology. Effective
teaching, scholarship, and university/community service are required for
promotion and tenure. Starting salary will be commensurate with
qualifications/experience. Starting date is August 2002. Review of
applications will begin November 12, 2001, and will continue until the
position is filled. Submit letter of application, curriculum vitae, copies
of transcripts, and the names of three references to: Dr. Melanie DeVore,
Population Ecology Search Committee, Department of Biological and
Environmental Sciences, CBX 081, Georgia College & State University,
Milledgeville, GA 31061. GC&SU, Georgia's Public Liberal Arts University,
is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution.
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 13:29:51 -0700
From: David Thomson <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
Subject: Re: Farmers' rights threatened by...the defense of science
I can agree partially that this has resulted in an application of law (poor
in my view) but I would like to propose that it is an application of science
first. Like a root cause; their would be no GM crops for Montsanto to
exploit if scientists were not creating them. This was directed to the list
member who was concerned that her work may not help solve a problem. I was
advocating proactive solutions like knowing the application and implications
of your work, instead of waiting for the government to legislate reactive
solutions (are you seriously suggesting we rely upon them for guidance?).
Since farming has never been the problem (too many people to farm for is the
problem), I can't agree that GM crops are helping solve a problem. I think
they cause one: oppression (of farmers in this case).
David Thomson
-----Original Message-----
From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
[mailto:ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU]On Behalf Of Doug Karpa-Wilson
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 9:30 AM
To: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
Subject: IN defense of science was Re: Farmers' rights threatened by...
This is an application of law not science, in reality, and it's extremely
unfortunate that the two are so often confused. Notice that these conflicts
involve courts, lawsuits, and damages, not experiments, labs and results. A
change of law (not scientific practice) to allow farmers to grow seeds from
their own crops would pretty well stop some of these problems cold. A
change of policy (again, not science) to institute a mechanism to preserve
traditional genetic diversity would ameliorate the other problems mentioned.
In both cases, the issues have their roots in policy, law, economics and
business practices, not science. Indeed, these same problems would exist
even in the absence of GM crops if seed companies were able to get
governments to institute laws preventing farmers from planting their own
seeds under any circumstances in order to boost their sales.
As a scientist, I get a wee bit grumpy about disparagement of the field when
scientists play essentially no role in creating and maintaining these
problems
Another two cents into the ether...
Doug Karpa-Wilson
Post Doc & Instructional Consultant
Indiana University
----- Original Message -----
From: "David Thomson" <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
To: <ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU>
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 9:08 AM
Subject: FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by
biotech industry
> Hello,
>
> I can't remember if the list has discussed this topic but just in case,
and
> in light of Monica's question, below is a report on one application of
> science that I consider part of the problem. Can this trend be stopped
>
> David Thomson
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 14:10:59 -0500
From: Susan Lewis <lewiss@CC.EDU>
Subject: Position: Assistant Professor
The Biology Department at Carroll College has an opening for a
full-time, tenure-track assistant professor with expertise in plant
biology and/or microbiology. Ph.D. in Biology or related field
required. Preference will be given to candidates with a documented
record of excellence in teaching. A research focus that best serves the
long-term interests of the department, potentially involving use of our
60-acre wetland field station, is also preferred. The position will
begin in September 2002.
The standard teaching load in the sciences is five courses per year
[typically two courses per semester (most with labs), with credit for
supervision of student research]. The successful candidate will be
expected to teach some combination of the following courses: Organismal
Biology (covering plants and animals), Ecology and Evolution, Field
Botany, Microbiology, and Bioethics. Teaching in our interdisciplinary
environmental science program or the First Year Seminar program is also
possible. The successful candidate will develop an active research
program with undergraduates. Additional responsibilities include
advising, curriculum development, grant writing, and other service to
the college.
The Biology Department supports approximately 160 majors, as well as
minors in several subdisciplines. The eight full-time faculty members
in the department have received grant support from NSF, NIH, NIEHS, 3M,
and other sources. Students and faculty in biology have been active in
study abroad programs, internships, and field and laboratory research.
We have a full-time laboratory coordinator who also serves as a
laboratory instructor. The College owns a 60-acre wetland research
facility near campus, which provides numerous opportunities for field
study in biology and environmental science. Departmental equipment
holdings include research-grade Zeiss microscopes, a Perkin Elmer
thermocycler, an Olympus inverted tissue culture microscope, a Perkin
Elmer Lambda 2 UV Visible Spectrophotometer, and refrigerated
centrifuges.
Founded in 1846, Carroll College is a comprehensive liberal arts college
located in Waukesha, 16 miles west of Milwaukee and 60 miles east of
Madison. The college serves approximately 2000 full-time students and
800 part-time students. Carroll has a long tradition of international
and interdisciplinary studies.
Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications. Benefits
include some moving expenses; TIAA/CREF pension to which the college
contributes up to 10%; college contributions toward insurance plans
including long-term disability income, health, dental, and life
insurance; tuition benefits for faculty dependents.
Applications will be reviewed starting November 1st, until the position
is filled. Send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, statements of
teaching philosophy and research interests, and three letters of
reference to:
Dr. Lynne Bernier
Vice President for Academic Affairs; Carroll College
100 North East Avenue; Waukesha, WI 53186
Carroll College is an Equal Opportunity Employer
--
Susan E. Lewis, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biology
Director of the Greene Field Station
Carroll College
100 North East Avenue
Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 524-7279, Fax: (262) 524-7112
lewiss@cc.edu
http://pioneer.cc.edu/lewiss
____________________________________________________________________
o \ o / _ o __| \ / |__ o _ \ o / o
/|\ | /\ __\o \o | o/ o/__ /\ | /|\
/ \ / \ | \ /) | ( \ /o\ / ) | (\ / | / \ / \
____________________________________________________________________
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 15:30:46 -0400
From: Scott Ruhren <ruhren@ETAL.URI.EDU>
Subject: algae exercises
Dear listmembers,
I am in the midst of teaching Marine Botany (with labs focusing on natural
history and ecology of macroalgae and a little of vascular plants) and will
e
teaching Phycology (focusing on fresh and saltwater species evolution and
diversity) in the spring semester. I am seeking resources for field and lab
ideas such as recommended books, websites, out-of-print lab manuals, persona
success stories etc... Any response or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Scott Ruhren
--
Scott Ruhren, Ph.D.
Department of Biological Sciences
Ranger Hall
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, Rhode Island 02881
phone: 401-874-2626
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 13:07:20 -0700
From: eric agyekum <ericjoy_1967@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: internship in USA
hello,
could you please publish this mail in your esteem
publications .
I am a masters degree student in Denmark pursuing
environmental management course and a member of this
club , I will want to get placement for intership
either paid or otherwise in the EPA or other
Environmental Orgaisation in the USA preferably in
Marlyland .
thanks for your co-operation.
my e-mail addresses are as above or
ericamoako_2001@yahoo.com or eaamoako@hotmail.com
__________________________________________________
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information
http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emergency_Information/
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 08:13:44 -0400
From: Marta Ceroni <ceroni@CBL.UMCES.EDU>
Subject: Brazil's Atlantic Workshop
Dear all,=20
The Maryland Institute for Ecological Economics (IEE), the Institute
Pro-Natura (IPN) and the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
(UFRRJ) are pleased to announce the=20
Restoration of Brazil's Atlantic Forest as a Watershed Management Tool,
a short graduate field-course in Ecological Economics and Sustainable
Development to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, January 07-21, 2002.=20
Primary focus of the workshop will be sustainable watershed management
within the endangered Atlantic Forest. Participants will work with
Pro-Natura on their ongoing project=20
focused on "Restoring Atlantic Forest Corridors in Rio de Janeiro State,
Brazil: A Cost-Effective Way to Conserve Forest-Based Services and
Biodiversity". Participants will=20
reside for the duration of the workshop at Hotel Fazenda Carrapeta,
Concei=E7=E3o de Macabu, Northern Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and will travel =
to
other locations for field trips, data=20
collection and learning exercises. Detailed information on the workshop
profile, faculty, overview and application is available on=20
http://iee.umces.edu/brazil/index.htm=20
The workshop will be offered as a graduate course within the MEES
program at the University of Maryland and Federal Rural University of
Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ) , within=20
which arrangements are being made to define the workshop number of
credits/level. Among the faculty from both institutions is Dr. Herman
Daly, Associate Director of the Institute=20
for Ecological Economics and Professor at PUAF/UMD. Background readings
and assignments (exercises) will be provided via the Web-based course
specifically designed for the=20
workshop and are a prerequisite for the workshop participation. The
workshop will be held mostly in Portuguese and preference will be given
to students Portuguese/ Spanish speakers. English reading is a
prerequisite. We expect equal numbers of participants
from Brazil and the US, and will give preference to students from the
sponsoring=20
institutions.=20
Funding sponsored by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
will provide fellowships for selected students to attend.
Students requesting aid should submit a written explanation along with
their application. Applications will be evaluated according to prior
experience, language skills, and
commitment to creative and effective solutions to watershed management,
ecosystems protection and biological diversity conservation. Preference
will be given to those with a
strong foundation in ecological economics.We suggest=20
you apply for travel funds or matching aid from your home institution
should it be available. Please provide documentation of your efforts to
procure funding from other sources.=20
To submit an application (please, see web for required information),
email, fax, or mail IEE at the following addresses:=20
Attn: Rosimeiry Portela=20
Institute For Ecological Economics=20
Box 38=20
Solomons, MD, 20688=20
Phone: (+001)- 410-326-7263=20
Fax: (+001)- 410-326-7354=20
Email: rportela@wam.umd.edu
tel: (202) 833-9260
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 11:15:43 +0100
From: Alessandro Gimona <A.Gimona@MARLAB.AC.UK>
Subject: Re: Terminator was not Monsanto..but still risky?
>With respect to uses, this was being developed by a cotton seed
company
>with specific interests in cotton, a cash crop wherever it's
grown, such
>that Delta Pine could make sure that people growing a crop for cash
would
>have to pay something each year if they benefited from the
varieties.
>Economically and ethically, this is not obviously different from
the 40
>million hectares that have been planted annually for decades in the
US to
>hybrid corn, where farmers have decided that the yield potential is
worth
>paying a bit extra for seed.
..according to the NGOs blurb, (e.g.
http://www.purefood.org/Patent/termgene.cfm ) though, both FAO and
Rockfeller foundation opposed the technology..I presume this is because of
concerns of extension of the technology to food crops..
here is what Gordon Conway(Rockfeller F.) had to say in Nature
(December 2 1999)
I quote a relevant paragraph..the whole article can be found at e.g.
http://www.biotech-info.net/conway2.html
....While terminator technology is clearly designed to prevent
rather than encourage such spread of proprietary varieties among poor
farmers, some argue that it will do them no harm because they can still use
and replant new varieties from the public sector. But if the companies tie
up enabling technologies and DNA sequences of important genes with patents,
and then use terminator technologies to control the distribution of
proprietary seed and restrict its use for further breeding, the public
sector will be severelyconstrained in using biotechnology to meet the needs
of the poor. ...
Regards,
Alessandro Gimona
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 07:55:01 -0400
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: New study shows that salmon 'feed' the very forests that nurture th
m
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2001-09/esoa-nss092001.php
New study shows that salmon 'feed' the very forests that nurture them
New research published in the September Issue of the peer-reviewed
journal Ecology demonstrates the need for comprehensive methods of
revitalizing depleted salmon stocks. The study by scientists James M.
Helfield and Robert J. Naiman of the University of Washington shows that
the viability of salmon populations and terrestrial ecosystems are
mutually dependent, and therefore calls into question traditional
single-species approaches to fisheries management, endangered species
legislation, and ecological restoration
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 01:46:25 -0400
From: Mike Nolan <mnolan@RAINFORESTANDREEF.ORG>
Subject: Re: algae exercises
Scott....
Hope it is still in print, book by the late Dr. Prescott for freshwater
algae and the like might be a good selection.
--
Sincerely,
Mike Nolan
*********************************************************************
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
29 Prospect NE Suite #8
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 USA
Phone/Fax: 616-776-5928/Toll Free: 877-769-3086
Cell Phone: 616-813-9308
E-mail: mnolan@rainforestandreef.org
Web: http://www.rainforestandreef.org
"Outstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest & Marine Ecology"
*********************************************************************
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 06:56:39 -0700
From: Abraham de Alba <aalba_a@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Farmers' rights threatened by...the defense of science
Dear David:
In no attempt to contradict your posiition, I would
question the assumptions, isn t more exact to be
"against" capitalist farming, that is intruding into
other types of farming, be it organic, peasant,
third-world, etc. ?
I would argue that GM crops could be positive to
humanity IF: they were centered in solving problems of
marginal agriculture (but that doesn t pay the
technology by trasnational companies), they didn t
threatened other crops or organisms (the monarch
controversy apparently is subsiding). Perhaps we
should remember that our foods come from this
capitalist "farmers" (more like companies) and that WE
as comsumers are pushing for CHEAPER foods, not for
SAFER(?), so it seems that the market is responding,
and it is merciless.
Abraham de Alba
Grassland Ecologist,
INIFAP-Aguascalientes
--- David Thomson <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM> wrote:
> Date: Thu, 20 Sep 2001 13:29:51 -0700
> Reply-to: David Thomson
> <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
> From: David Thomson
> <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
> Subject: Re: Farmers' rights threatened
> by...the defense of science
> To: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
>
> I can agree partially that this has resulted in an
> application of law (poor
> in my view) but I would like to propose that it is
> an application of science
> first. Like a root cause; their would be no GM
> crops for Montsanto to
> exploit if scientists were not creating them. This
> was directed to the list
> member who was concerned that her work may not help
> solve a problem. I was
> advocating proactive solutions like knowing the
> application and implications
> of your work, instead of waiting for the government
> to legislate reactive
> solutions (are you seriously suggesting we rely upon
> them for guidance?).
> Since farming has never been the problem (too many
> people to farm for is the
> problem), I can't agree that GM crops are helping
> solve a problem. I think
> they cause one: oppression (of farmers in this
> case).
>
> David Thomson
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs,
> news
> [mailto:ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU]On Behalf Of Doug
> Karpa-Wilson
> Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 9:30 AM
> To: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
> Subject: IN defense of science was Re: Farmers'
> rights threatened by...
>
>
> This is an application of law not science, in
> reality, and it's extremely
> unfortunate that the two are so often confused.
> Notice that these conflicts
> involve courts, lawsuits, and damages, not
> experiments, labs and results. A
> change of law (not scientific practice) to allow
> farmers to grow seeds from
> their own crops would pretty well stop some of these
> problems cold. A
> change of policy (again, not science) to institute a
> mechanism to preserve
> traditional genetic diversity would ameliorate the
> other problems mentioned.
> In both cases, the issues have their roots in
> policy, law, economics and
> business practices, not science. Indeed, these same
> problems would exist
> even in the absence of GM crops if seed companies
> were able to get
> governments to institute laws preventing farmers
> from planting their own
> seeds under any circumstances in order to boost
> their sales.
>
> As a scientist, I get a wee bit grumpy about
> disparagement of the field when
> scientists play essentially no role in creating and
> maintaining these
> problems
>
> Another two cents into the ether...
>
> Doug Karpa-Wilson
> Post Doc & Instructional Consultant
> Indiana University
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "David Thomson" <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
> To: <ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU>
> Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 9:08 AM
> Subject: FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers'
> rights threatened by
> biotech industry
>
>
> > Hello,
> >
> > I can't remember if the list has discussed this
> topic but just in case,
> and
> > in light of Monica's question, below is a report
> on one application of
> > science that I consider part of the problem. Can
> this trend be stopped?
> >
> > David Thomson
__________________________________________________
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information
http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emergency_Information/
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 18:29:26 -0600
From: "David W. Inouye" <di5@umail.umd.edu>
Subject: Graduate research assistantship available,
Southern Illinois Univ. - Carbondale
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale: Graduate
research assistantship available Summer or Fall 2002
for student interested in forest ecology, fire
ecology, gap dynamics, or land-use history in central
hardwood forests. Southern Illinois forests offer a
rich diversity of hardwoods, oaks, and select pine
species. Students with research interests studying
tree rings, fire scars, and disturbance ecology in a
historical ecology lab are encouraged to apply. For
additional information contact Dr. Charles M. Ruffner
(Department of Forestry, Southern Illinois University,
Carbondale, IL 62901; email: ruffner@siu.edu;
telephone: 618-453-7469)
=====
Saskia van de Gevel
Department of Forestry
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL 62901
Work: (618) 453-4990
Cell phone: (618) 303-0080
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 13:32:15 +0000
From: Linda Wallace <lwallace@OU.EDU>
Subject: positions available
Please do not respond to me, but rather respond to the contacts listed
below. Please feel free to share this with interested colleagues.
Department of Botany and Microbiology
University of Oklahoma
Applications are invited for four tenure-track positions to begin in
Summer 2002 at the ASSISTANT PROFESSOR level. The Department seeks
outstanding individuals who will contribute to its research, teaching,
and service missions, work collaboratively with faculty colleagues, and
whose research focuses on: (Search #1) Plant Development/Plant
Genomics, addressing fundamental aspects of plant development and/or the
influence of environmental stress on plant development and growth using
modern tools of molecular analysis; (Search #2) Molecular Microbiology,
using state-of-the-art methodologies to study cellular events at the
molecular level in microbial systems or model microorganisms; (Search
#3) Molecular Ecology, using molecular approaches to understand the
ecological principles that govern the structure and function of
microbial systems, their relationships to hierarchical ecological
levels, and/or the molecular basis of interactions with macrobiota; or
(Search #4) Geomicrobiology, studying the role of microbes in
geomicrobiological and biogeochemical processes related to global
climate change, focusing on the microbial production and consumption of
one or more important greenhouse gases.
Qualified candidates must possess a Ph.D., or equivalent degree, and
relevant postdoctoral experience, and provide evidence of a strong
ability to develop independent, extramurally funded research as well as
a strong commitment to teaching at the graduate and undergraduate
levels. Applicants should send a current c.v., representative reprints,
statements of research plans, teaching interests and philosophy, and the
search # to which the application pertains, and arrange to have three
letters of reference sent to Dr. Gordon Uno, Chair, Department of Botany
and Microbiology, 770 Van Vleet Oval, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
73019 (inquiries to guno@ou.edu). Review of applications begins
November 15, 2001 and will continue until positions are filled.
Successful candidates have opportunities to collaborate with a dynamic
faculty possessing strengths in functional genomics and proteomics,
microbial physiology, microbial pathogenesis, ecology, global change,
phytoremediation and bioremediation, plant structure, and systematics.
Resources include an electron/confocal microscopy facility, a sequencing
facility, a microarray facility, and a planned genomics research
institute. More information about the faculty, department, and searches
may be obtained at: http://www.ou.edu/cas/botany-micro/
All positions offer excellent benefits. Women and members of
underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of
Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
--
*******************************************************
Linda L. Wallace
Samuel Roberts Noble Presidential Professor
Professor of Botany
Dept. of Botany & Microbiology
University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK 73019
Phone (405) 325-6685
FAX (405) 325-7619
lwallace@ou.edu
*******************************************************
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 15:53:25 -0500
From: "He, Hong S." <heh@MISSOURI.EDU>
Subject: PHD GRADUATE POSITION AVAILABLE
--=====================_29486578==_.ALT
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed
We have an opening for a PhD graduate student research assistant to work in
the interdisciplinary fields of landscape ecology, ecological modeling, and
geographic information systems. The candidate will work on the further
development of a spatially explicit landscape model of succession,
disturbance, and management (LANDIS). LANDIS is a raster-based, programmed
with C++, designed using an object-oriented modeling approach, and
interfaced with GIS. This candidate will code a new data structure to
support variable time steps of model simulations, refine the fire module,
and develop applications in central hardwood or northern hardwood forest
landscapes in Missouri, Wisconsin, or Minnesota. Research work may include
how species composition and landscape pattern would respond to various
disturbance and management scenarios, uncertainties in landscape modeling,
or other research topics that suit the candidate's background. Duties will
also include collaborations with scientists of other universities and
government agencies, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, presenting
at national conferences, and write scientific findings. A qualified
candidate should have a background in forest ecology, geography, or closely
related fields. Strong skills in C++ programming and techniques in GIS and
remote sensing are desirable. The graduate research assistantship at the
University of Missouri-Columbia is a 0.5 FTE with health benefits and
tuition waiver.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE POSITION, CONTACT:
Dr. Hong S. He
School of Natural Resources
203M Anheuser-Busch Building
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO 65211 U.S.A
or by phone (573-882-7717) or email (HeH@missouri.edu)
--=====================_29486578==_.ALT
Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1"
Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
<html>
<div align=3D"center">
<font face=3D"Arial, Helvetica"><br>
We have an opening for a PhD graduate student research assistant to work
in the interdisciplinary fields of landscape ecology, ecological
modeling, and geographic information systems. The candidate will
work on the further development of a spatially explicit landscape model
of succession, disturbance, and management (LANDIS). LANDIS is a
raster-based, programmed with C++, designed using an object-oriented
modeling approach, and interfaced with GIS. This candidate will
code a new data structure to support variable time steps of model
simulations, refine the fire module, and develop applications in central
hardwood or northern hardwood forest landscapes in Missouri, Wisconsin,
or Minnesota. Research work may include how species composition and
landscape pattern would respond to various disturbance and management
scenarios, uncertainties in landscape modeling, or other research topics
that suit the candidate=92s background. Duties will also include
collaborations with scientists of other universities and government
agencies, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, presenting at
national conferences, and write scientific findings.</font>
<font face=3D"Arial, Helvetica">A qualified candidate should have a
background in forest ecology, geography, or closely related fields.
Strong skills in C++ programming and techniques in GIS and remote sensing
are desirable. The graduate research assistantship at the
University of Missouri-Columbia is a 0.5 FTE with health benefits and
tuition waiver. <br>
<br>
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE POSITION, CONTACT: <br>
<br>
Dr. Hong S. He<br>
School of Natural Resources<br>
203M Anheuser-Busch Building<br>
University of Missouri-Columbia<br>
Columbia, MO 65211 U.S.A<br>
or by phone (573-882-7717) or email (HeH@missouri.edu)</font></html>
--=====================_29486578==_.ALT--
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 13:26:15 -0400
From: Siobhan Fennessy <fennessym@KENYON.EDU>
Subject: Two tenure-track positions
TWO TENURE-TRACK FACULTY POSITIONS IN ECOLOGY AND
MATHEMATICAL/COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY
Kenyon College
ECOLOGIST: The Department of Biology, Kenyon College is seeking
applications for a tenure-track assistant professor in ecology. We
seek
candidates who are broadly-trained and are able to bridge fields
within
the department. The successful candidate will teach at both the
introductory and upper-levels; participate in an interdisciplinary
program in Environmental Studies; and maintain a vital, independent
research program that incorporates undergraduates. In support of
research, we offer a competitive start-up package. Applicants should
hold a Ph.D. degree and demonstrate teaching excellence, the potenti
l
to maintain research involvement by undergraduates, and should show
promise of establishing a productive research program. Review of
applications will begin 22 October and continue until the position i
filled. Statements of teaching and research interest, curriculum
vitae,
undergraduate and graduate transcripts and three letters of referenc
should be sent directly to: Ecology Search Committee, Biology
Department, Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio 43022. E-mail:
biosearch@kenyon.edu. Visit our website for more details on the
position: http://www2.kenyon.edu/depts/biology/. An equal opportunit
employer, Kenyon is committed to building a diverse faculty, staff a
d
administration and encourages the applications of women and minority
candidates.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-------
COMPUTATIONAL OR MATHEMATICAL BIOLOGIST: The departments of Biology
and
Mathematics at Kenyon College invite applications for a joint
interdisciplinary tenure track position at the assistant professor
level, in a field of computational or mathematical biology. Areas of
special interest may include:
- Biomathematics
- Quantitative ecology or evolutionary biology
- Modeling of organisms or populations
- Computational approaches to cellular or molecular biology
- Biostatistics or bioinformatics
The successful candidate will teach courses in both departments of
mathematics and biology, and conduct a vigorous research program
involving undergraduates. Generous start-up funds are provided,
including support from Kenyon's award from the Howard Hughes Medical
Institute. The candidate will work with current faculty to develop n
w
collaborative teaching and research in computational and mathematica
biology. The candidate's primary appointment will be in the individu
l
department of her/his choice. Qualifications include a Ph.D. in an
appropriate discipline, demonstrated commitment to excellent
instruction, and the ability to initiate and maintain research with
undergraduates.
The Biology department consists of nine full time faculty members wh
are active researchers/teachers, integrating their research into the
classroom experience. Faculty research interests span physiological
and
systems ecology, developmental biology, neurobiology, plant and
microbiology, and molecular genetics.
The Mathematics Department consists of six full-time faculty members
including two with research interests in biological growth and form,
cell biology, population biology, and epidemiology. Other research
interests include algebra, analysis, topology, nonparametric and
spatial
statistics. For further information on projects combining mathematic
and biology, see: http://www2.kenyon.edu/depts/Biomath/index.html.
Kenyon College is a highly selective private liberal arts college
dedicated to excellent undergraduate education. It has a national
student body of about 1500 students. The campus is located in a
beautiful rural setting about 50 miles northeast of Columbus, Ohio.
Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching
philosophy and interests, a research statement (including a summary
f
accomplishments and direction of future research), graduate and
undergraduate transcripts, and three (3) letters of recommendation t
:
Mathematics and Biology Search Committee, Wendy Busenburg, Higley
Hall,
Kenyon College, Gambier, OH 43022. Review of complete applications
will begin on December 1st, 2001, and will continue until the positi
n
is filled. For more information contact the Search Committee Chair,
e-mail: mathbiol@kenyon.edu.
Kenyon College is an Equal Opportunity Employer, especially committe
to
building a diverse faculty.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 09:27:05 -0700
From: "Andrew J. Bohonak" <bohonak@SCIENCES.SDSU.EDU>
Subject: Faculty Position - Plant/Algal Evolutionary Biology
============================================================
FACULTY POSITION IN PLANT/ALGAL EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/facjobs/plant-algal.html
============================================================
The Department of Biology at San Diego State University offers a
tenure-track position in its Evolutionary Biology program area, to
begin as early as fall 2002 at the Assistant Professor level in
Plant/Algal Evolutionary Biology. Desirable research interests
include any area of the evolutionary biology of land plants or algal
groups, such as population/quantitative genetics, natural selection,
speciation, reproductive biology, systematics, or integrative
anatomy, development, or biomechanics. Teaching will include a course
in plant biology, team-teaching in general biology courses, and a
graduate course in an area of expertise.
Candidates for this position must have a Ph.D. and an active research
program. Postdoctoral experience is desirable. Expectations include
interaction with a diverse student body and with an active group of
faculty interested in broad questions in evolutionary biology.
The Evolutionary Biology program area of the Department of Biology
offers a research-oriented master's program. A joint-doctoral program
in evolutionary biology is currently being pursued. Evidence of
research productivity is essential. The successful candidate will be
expected to maintain an externally-funded research program that
includes participation of both undergraduate and graduate students.
The Evolutionary Biology program area currently includes nine faculty
with teaching and research interests in phylogenetic systematics,
morphological and molecular evolution, population and ecological
genetics, speciation, vertebrate paleontology, conservation biology,
and biogeography and evolution of mammals, lizards, snakes, birds,
insects, spiders, freshwater invertebrates, and plants. An herbarium
and collections of vertebrates and insects are maintained on campus.
Excellent regional collections are also available at the San Diego
Museum of Natural History and the Scripps Institute of Oceanography.
SDSU has three field stations with a combined total area of over
6,000 acres. Well-equipped computer facilities, growth chamber
facilities, histological equipment, electron microscope facilities,
and extensive individual and shared equipment for molecular analyses
(DNA, RNA and protein) are maintained by the department.
Teaching at the graduate and undergraduate levels is an important
responsibility of the faculty at SDSU. Candidates for this position
will be evaluated on the basis of their willingness and ability to
contribute to the teaching program as well as their desire and
prospects for developing a strong research program.
Send curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching interests,
three representative publications, and have three letters of
recommendation sent to:
Plant/Algal Evolutionary Biology Search Committee
Department of Biology
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA 92182-4614
Review and initial selection of applications will begin December 1,
2001 and will continue until the position has been filled. Interviews
are currently expected to begin February 2002.
SDSU is an Equal Opportunity Title IX Employer and does not
discriminate against persons on the basis of race, religion, national
origin, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, age or disability.
This information is also available at
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/facjobs/plant-algal.html
============================================================
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 16:20:10 -0500
From: Martin Konrad <Martin.Konrad@DNR.STATE.IA.US>
Subject: Registration - 63rd Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference
Registration has begun for the 63rd Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference,
which will be held on December 9-12, 2001, at the Marriott Hotel in Des
Moines, Iowa. The first 800 individuals who register will receive a 10" x
13.5" zippered padfolio. To receive the early registration rate of $150 =
for
professionals, or $50 for students, your registration form and fees must =
be
received or postmarked no later than November 16, 2001. After the =
deadline
for early registration, the registration fee will increase to $180 for
professionals, and $80 for students.
For registration forms and more complete information regarding the 63rd
Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference, please visit the conference website at
http://www.state.ia.us/midwest2001=20
We hope to see you in Des Moines!
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 16:55:15 -0700
From: Ashwani Vasishth <vasishth@USC.EDU>
Subject: History of air pollution research
Strictly as trivia, and excerpted from: EPA. 1997. Regional Approaches
to Improving Air Quality. Office of Air Quality. Planning and Standards,
Research Triangle Park, NC. <http://www.epa.gov/oar/oaqps/airtrans/>
"...The struggle for clean air is almost as old as industrialized society.
In 1661, John Evelyn and John Graunt of England each published studies
associating negative health effects with industrial air emissions. Both
researchers described the transport of pollutants between England and
France and suggested protecting human health by locating industrial
facilities outside of towns and using taller smokestacks to spread "smoke"
into "distant parts."..."
For more on John Evelyn, see:
http://www.bl.uk/exhibitions/evelyn/
and
http://www.bedoyere.freeserve.co.uk/john%20evelyn.htm
For more on John Graunt, see:
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~stephan/Graunt/grauntbio.html
and
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~stephan/Graunt/bills.html
and
http://www.sunysuffolk.edu/~westn/mortality.html
Ashwani
Vasishth vasishth@usc.edu (323) 462-2884
http://www-scf.usc.edu/~vasishth
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 17 Sep 2001 to 18 Sep 2001
There are 13 messages totalling 874 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. A question - topic for discussion (8)
2. question for discussion
3. GAL PAGOS FIELD COURSE for EDUCATORS w/optional RAINFOREST EXTENSION
4. A question - topic for discussion (morality of basic science)
5. fire retardant plants
6. Postdoctoral Position - Aquatic Ecology
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 00:13:39 -0400
From: Monica Schuegraf <x97ssp@STFX.CA>
Subject: A question - topic for discussion
Hi everybody,
Here from a questioning (questing?) student is question (or maybe more
than one) that have been wandering through my mind as I am pursuing my
Masters. I would appreciate any responses, opinions on this matter -
discussed with the entire list - or privately - whatever anyone prefers.
Can the studying of science or any purely intellectual pursuit be justified
in a world that contains so much inequality? In a world where so many
people do not even have access to the essentials (food, water, shelter)
required for life? Perhaps justified is not the right word, as one can
justify anything - but can it honestly be morally justified???
Should not scientists (and all people undertaking research) be obligated (by
conscience) to study a subject, and to search for solutions that can apply
directly to problems the world faces?
I am not sure I have managed to communicate all my concerns - but
hopefully - the discussion will continue.
Thanks
Monica Schuegraf
Monica Schuegraf
Toronto, Ontario
(416) 650-2249
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:41:55 -0300
From: Sean Mitchell <smitchel@STFX.CA>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
Monica:
My initial reaction to your query is that yes, we are
obligated to work for the betterment of the world (or our
country, or our local area) and the counter-argument, of
course, is that without basic (non-applied) research we will
not know how to conduct the actions to achieve that
betterment. However, i think that we do already know enough
at this stage to decrease water pollution, overfishing,
habitat loss, soil erosion, etc., etc., etc. Governments in
Europe were legislating good, sensible laws for the
protection of waterways and Atlantic Salmon as early as the
1500's, indicating an understanding of the requirement of
self-control in order to protect ecological systems. Our
existing knowledge base is sufficient to address the
environmental issues that we are faced with, and continued
study on non-applied research is unlikley to add much to the
database.
If we link the study of ecology with environmental
issues (which i beleive your question does), then I would
argue that ecology as a science is not required for the
"betterment" of our world. I say this because the deeper you
look at all of our environmental issues, they are ultimately
social issues. The inequality that you spoke of drives much
of the loss of rainforests and overfishing (local
communities "need" the work and so welcome rape-and-pillage
logging/fishing), extinction of wildlife (hunting to put
food on the table), water, air and soil pollution (social
expectations of what "we" [i.e. North Americans]
"deserve"). If we are to be truly productive on a
conservation/ecology front then science would have to take a
backseat to activism. Thus, the science of ecology is not
that important in actual real-world conservation. So now I
have said that neither, basic nor applied ecology are
necessary studies in the environmental realm.
However, if we accept that scientists are merely people
who are trying to do a job which they greatly enjoy, then
there is no need for an obligation (by conscience). They
are free to study and do what they wish just as all other
professionals, without concern of the larger impact on
society. Just as mathematicians can pursue pure math (and
be consumptive members impacting the environment with no
measurable postive effect on the local environment), or
engineers can justify the use of large quantities of highly
toxic chemicals which eventually work their way into the
environment (air, ground and surface water) just to creat a
new version of Lara Croft and Tomb Raider, so too ecologists
can study systems which have not net positive benefits to
the world we live in. That is a personal choice made by the
interests and inclinations of the individual.
Of course, many scientists are somewhat between these
roles - they are full time scientists and part-time
activists. But my experience (in British Columbia) is that
it is the activists rather than the scientists that really
affect legislation and people, and thus the environment and
ecological setting. This is also true historically as
evidenced by the hunting and angling groups (again I speak
only of North America). These are the ones who have
achieved what we perceive as an improved world.
I don't think that your question has an "answer", as
everyone doing research does it for different reasons, and
we can always justify our actions (scientists get quite good
at this through the process of grant applications). It is,
however, thought provoking and I hope that others will
respond with their thoughts.
Sean Mitchell
St. Francis Xavier University
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 23:59:43 -0700
From: Colleen Grant <psorothamnus@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
--0-1658211221-1000796383=:10783
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Hi Monica,
As one Masters student to another: Yes, theoretical research has its place
n
science. It is the visionary (sometimes initially labeled 'crackpot') who
leads the way with theoretical knowledge that others can apply in more
practical ways. As an example: the current research on the roles/interacti
ns
of pH changes and expansins in loosening the cellulose-hemicellulose bonds
o
permit plant growth is not (to the best of my knowledge) being directly app
ied
to agriculture because there are still too many unanswered questions. Yet
someday, this knowledge may help us grow plants more quickly or in another
directed manner that will alleviate problems such as farming in nutrient
deficient soil or limited moisture availability.
Colleen Grant
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Monica Schuegraf <x97ssp@STFX.CA> wrote Hi everybody,
Here from a questioning (questing?) student is question (or maybe more
than one) that have been wandering through my mind as I am pursuing my
Masters. I would appreciate any responses, opinions on this matter -
discussed with the entire list - or privately - whatever anyone prefers.
Can the studying of science or any purely intellectual pursuit be justified
in a world that contains so much inequality? In a world where so many
people do not even have access to the essentials (food, water, shelter)
required for life? Perhaps justified is not the right word, as one can
justify anything - but can it honestly be morally justified???
Should not scientists (and all people undertaking research) be obligated (by
conscience) to study a subject, and to search for solutions that can apply
directly to problems the world faces?
I am not sure I have managed to communicate all my concerns - but
hopefully - the discussion will continue.
Thanks
Monica Schuegraf
Monica Schuegraf
Toronto, Ontario
(416) 650-2249
---------------------------------
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information inYahoo! News.
--0-1658211221-1000796383=:10783
Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii
<P>Hi Monica,
<P>As one Masters student to another: Yes, theoretical research
as its
place in science. It is the visionary (sometimes initially label
d
'crackpot') who leads the way with theoretical knowledge that others
an
apply in more practical ways. As an example: the current research on
he
roles/interactions of pH changes and expansins in loosening the
cellulose-hemicellulose bonds to permit plant growth is not (to the best of
my
knowledge) being directly applied to agriculture because there are sti
l
too many unanswered questions. Yet someday, this knowledge may help u
grow plants more quickly or in another directed manner that will allev
ate
problems such as farming in nutrient deficient soil or limited moisture
availability.
<P>Colleen Grant
<P>University of Nevada, Las Vegas
<P> <B><I>Monica Schuegraf <x97ssp@STFX.CA><
/I></B> wrote
<BLOCKQUOTE style="PADDING-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; BORDER-LEFT: #101
ff 2px
solid">Hi everybody,<BR>Here from a questioning (questing?) studen
is question
(or maybe more<BR>than one) that have been wandering through my mind
s I am
pursuing my<BR>Masters. I would appreciate any responses, opinions on
this
matter -<BR>discussed with the entire list - or privately - whatever
nyone
prefers.<BR><BR>Can the studying of science or any purely intel
ectual pursuit
be justified<BR>in a world that contains so much inequality? In a wor
d where
so many<BR>people do not even have access to the essentials (food, wa
er,
shelter)<BR>required for life? Perhaps justified is not the right wor
, as one
can<BR>justify anything - but can it honestly be morally
justified???<BR><BR>Should not scientists (and all people under
aking research)
be obligated (by<BR>conscience) to study a subject, and to search for
solutions
that can apply<BR>directly to problems the world faces?<BR><
R>I am not sure I
have managed to communicate a
ll my concerns - but<BR>hopefully - the discussion will
continue.<BR><BR>Thanks<BR>Monica Schuegraf<BR><
R><BR><BR><BR>Monica
Schuegraf<BR>Toronto, Ontario<BR>(416) 650-2249</BLOCKQUOTE>
<p><br><hr
size=1><b>Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
</b><br>Donate cash, emergency relief information in
<a
href="http://rd.yahoo.com/mail_us/tag/?http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emer
enc
y_Information/">Yahoo! News</a>.
--0-1658211221-1000796383=:10783--
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 08:37:04 -0400
From: "Samuel M. Scheiner" <sscheine@NSF.GOV>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
The quick answer is that ultimately economic prosperity comes from scientifi
advances and those advances are dependent on basic research. It is very
difficult to predict what will eventually prove useful because sometimes the
e
uses do not appear for decades. For example, Mendel could not have predicted
that his studies of peas would result in the green revolution a century late
.
Fundamental ecological research is necessary if we are to create a sustainab
e
system for living.
Sam Scheiner
Date sent: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 00:13:39 -0400
Send reply to: Monica Schuegraf <x97ssp@STFX.CA>
From: Monica Schuegraf <x97ssp@STFX.CA>
Subject: A question - topic for discussion
To: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
> Hi everybody,
> Here from a questioning (questing?) student is question (or maybe m
re
> than one) that have been wandering through my mind as I am pursuing my
> Masters. I would appreciate any responses, opinions on this matter -
> discussed with the entire list - or privately - whatever anyone prefers
>
> Can the studying of science or any purely intellectual pursuit be justi
ied in
a
> world that contains so much inequality? In a world where so many peopl
do
not
> even have access to the essentials (food, water, shelter) required for
ife?
> Perhaps justified is not the right word, as one can justify anything -
ut can
> it honestly be morally justified???
>
> Should not scientists (and all people undertaking research) be obligate
(by
> conscience) to study a subject, and to search for solutions that can ap
ly
> directly to problems the world faces?
>
> I am not sure I have managed to communicate all my concerns - but
> hopefully - the discussion will continue.
>
> Thanks
> Monica Schuegraf
>
>
>
>
> Monica Schuegraf
> Toronto, Ontario
> (416) 650-2249
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 12:08:40 -0300
From: Sean Mitchell <smitchel@STFX.CA>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
Colleen:
I understand your point but I would argue the research is
missing the point. It is attempting to solve a proximate
problem (slow growing plants or farmining in nutrient
deficient soils, or in conditions of limiteed water
availability to use your examples). But, what is required
are solutions to the ultimate problems - why is the soil
nutrient deficient? (past and continued destructive farming
practices; extreme reliance on artificial fertilizers), Why
are we trying to grow plants in moisture limited areas?
(where they do not grow well under normal conditions). What
is the process that is forcing us to farm on marginal ground
and try to get plants growing as quickly as possible?
(urbanization or destruction of most fertile ground,
overpopulation, unnecessary "specialty" markets, etc.).
These are the questions, I think, that require answering
and approaches. Our problems are social issues requiring
assessment and answers - not more techological fixes.
Sean Mitchell
St. Francis Xavier University
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:28:23 -0700
From: Colleen Grant <psorothamnus@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Re: question for discussion
--0-1319774666-1000830503=:63149
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
To: Sean Mitchell
Cc: ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU
Sean,
Assumption: Ignoring the controversies about methodology, a teacher is bette
able to teach to children the information in modern school curriculums than
a
plumber; a tailor/seamstress will make better quality clothing than a garba
e
truck driver.
Point: Each of these skills has a necessary place in our society and in
extension, scientists capable of the not-directly applicable research and
scientists capable of direct application are both needed.
Assumption: Humanity is not likely to stop breeding or even attain a world-w
de
level of zero population growth in the foreseeable future.
Assumption: Evidence of a positive correlation between increased female lite
acy
and decreased birth rate is accurate.
Point(s): Submarginal lands are being farmed because people need to eat. Pla
ts
with enhanced growth rates and greater efficiency in using limited resource
can maximize utilization of productive farmlands, perhaps to the extent tha
substantially less submarginal land area will be required for food producti
n.
Take that technological fix and simultaneously work on the overpopulation
problem by increasing female literacy so mothers can understand why
bio-engineered crops will decrease childhood mortality levels. We have to g
t
the submarginal lands out of production before we can restore or recreate
viable ecosystems.
Summation: An integretion of theoretical research, technological fixes, and
direct intervention is needed to resolve our myriad of social problems.
Colleen Grant
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
---------------------------------
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information inYahoo! News.
--0-417651546-1000829789=:60116
Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii
Sean,
Assumption: Ignoring the controversies about methodology, a teacher is bette
able to teach to children the information in modern school curriculums than
a
plumber; a tailor/seamstress will make better quality clothing than a garba
e
truck driver.
Point: Each of these skills has a necessary place in our society and in
extension, scientists capable of the not-directly applicable research and
scientists capable of direct application are both needed.
Assumption: Humanity is not likely to stop breeding or even attain a world-
ide
level of zero population growth in the foreseeable future.
Assumption: Evidence of a positive correlation between increased female
literacy and decreased birth rate is accurate.
Point(s): Submarginal lands are being farmed because people need to eat.
Plants with enhanced growth rates and greater efficiency in using limited
resources can maximize utilization of productive farmlands, perhaps to the
extent that substantially less submarginal land area will be required for f
od
production. Take that technological fix and simultaneously work on the
overpopulation problem by increasing female literacy so mothers can underst
nd
why bio-engineered crops will decrease childhood mortality levels. We have
to
get the submarginal lands out of production before we can restore or recrea
e
viable ecosystems.
Summation: An integretion of theoretical research, technological fixes, an
direct intervention is needed to resolve our myriad of social problems.
Colleen Grant
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
---------------------------------
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information in
href="http://rd.yahoo.com/mail_us/tag/?http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emer
enc
y_Information/">Yahoo! News.
--0-417651546-1000829789=:60116--
---------------------------------
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information inYahoo! News.
--0-1319774666-1000830503=:63149
Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii
<P> To: Sean Mitchell <SMITCHEL@STFX.CA><BR>Cc: <A
href="mailto:ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU">ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU</A><B
><BR><BR>Sean,
<BR>Assumption: Ignoring the controversies about methodology, a teach
r is
better able to teach to children the information in modern school curriculu
s
than a plumber; a tailor/seamstress will make better quality clothing than
garbage truck driver. <BR>Point: Each of these skills has a necessary
place in
our society and in extension, scientists capable of the not-directly applic
ble
research and scientists capable of direct application are both needed.
<BR>Assumption: Humanity is not likely to stop breeding or even attai
a
world-wide level of zero population growth in the foreseeable future.
<BR>Assumption: Evidence of a positive correlation between increased
emale
literacy and decreased birth rate is accurate. <BR>Point(s): Submargi
al lands
are being farmed because people need to eat. Plants with enhanced growth ra
es
and greater efficiency in using limited resources ca
n maximize utilization of productive farmlands, perhaps to the extent that
substantially less submarginal land area will be required for food producti
n.
Take that technological fix and simultaneously work on the overpopulation
problem by increasing female literacy so mothers can understand why
bio-engineered crops will decrease childhood mortality levels. We have to g
t
the submarginal lands out of production before we can restore or recreate
viable ecosystems. <BR>Summation: An integretion of theoretical resea
ch,
technological fixes, and direct intervention is needed to resolve our myria
of
social problems.<BR><BR>Colleen Grant<BR><BR>Univer
ity of Nevada, Las
Vegas<BR><BR><BR><BR>------------------------------
--<BR>Terrorist Attacks on
U.S. - How can you help?<BR>Donate cash, emergency relief information
inYahoo!
News.<BR>--0-417651546-1000829789=:60116<BR>Content-Type: text/
tml;
charset=us-ascii<BR><BR>
<BLOCKQUOTE style="PADDING-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; BORDER-LEFT: #101
ff 2px
solid">
<P>Sean, <BR>
<P>Assumption: Ignoring the controversies about methodology, a teacher
is better
able to teach to children the information in modern school curriculums than
a
plumber; a tailor/seamstress will make better quality clothing than a garba
e
truck driver. <BR>
<P>Point: Each of these skills has a necessary place in our soci
ty and in
extension, scientists capable of the not-directly applicable research and
scientists capable of direct application are both needed. <BR>
<P>Assumption: Humanity is not likely to stop breeding or even a
tain a
world-wide level of zero population growth in the foreseeable future. <B
>
<P>Assumption: Evidence of a positive correlation between i
creased
female literacy and decreased birth rate is accurate. <BR>
<P>Point(s): Submarginal lands are being farmed because people n
ed to
eat. Plants with enhanced growth rates and greater efficiency in usin
limited resources can maximize utilization of productive farmlands,
perhaps to the extent that substantially less submarginal land area wi
l
be required for food production. Take that technological fix and
simultaneously work on the overpopulation problem by increasing female
literacy so mothers can understand why bio-engineered crops will decrease
childhood mortality levels. We have to get the submarginal lands out
f
production before we can restore or recreate viable ecosystems. <B
>
<P>Summation: An integretion of theoretical research, tech
ological
fixes, and direct intervention is needed to resolve our myriad of soci
l
problems.</P><BR>
<P>Colleen Grant</P><BR>
<P>University of Nevada, Las Vegas</P>
<P><BR>
<HR SIZE=1>
<B>Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?<BR></B><
BR>Donate cash,
emergency relief information
in<BR><A<BR>href="http://rd.yahoo.com/mail_us/tag/?http://da
lynews.yahoo.com/f
c/US/Emergency_Information/">Yahoo!
News</A>.<BR>--0-417651546-1000829789=:60116--</BLOCKQUOTE>
<p><br><hr
size=1><b>Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
</b><br>Donate cash, emergency relief information in
<a
href="http://rd.yahoo.com/mail_us/tag/?http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emer
enc
y_Information/">Yahoo! News</a>.
--0-1319774666-1000830503=:63149--
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 13:17:07 EDT
From: Aneyww@AOL.COM
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
In a message dated 17-Sep-2001 22:01:41 Pacific Daylight Time, x97ssp@STFX.C
writes:
<< Should not scientists (and all people undertaking research) be obli
ated
(by
conscience) to study a subject, and to search for solutions that can apply
directly to problems the world faces? >>
This is similar to previous discussions on prioritizing research: There is
an infinite body of knowledge out there. But we'll never be able to make a
noticeable dent in it with our finite minds and time. Therefore there
should be some way of deciding what research is meaningful and what is
trivial. Unfortunately, no one has suggested a way to do this. However, it
is a question every research scientist should ask before starting a project.
Given a choice, choose the meaningful over the trivial.
Warren Aney
Senior Wildlife Ecologist
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 15:46:41 -0400
From: Mike Nolan <mnolan@RAINFORESTANDREEF.ORG>
Subject: GAL PAGOS FIELD COURSE for EDUCATORS w/optional RAINFOREST EXTENSIO
LENGTH: 10 Days/9 Nights
DATES 2002: Jul 4-Jul 13
FIELD COURSE LEADER: Stam Zervanos, Ph.D. of Penn State University. Dr.
Zervanos has taught courses in biodiversity, ecology, comparative animal
and mammalian physiology at Penn State. His research has focused on
physiological ecology, with an emphasis on thermoregulation, hibernation
and biological rhythms in such diverse habitats as the deserts of
Arizona, tundra of Alaska, coastal islands of the eastern U.S. and
rainforests of South America. Dr. Zervanos is the author of over 25
research publications and has led groups to Gal=E1pagos and Ecuador=92s
upper Amazon basin; Alaska; Australia and Tanzania. He can be reached by
e-mail: smz1@psu.edu or office phone: 610-396-6166. =20
COST: 2650.00US per person. Based on 15 full-paying participants and
double occupancy.
=20
Includes: Round-trip International airfare to Ecuador from Miami;
Round-trip Domestic airfare Quito-Baltra, Gal=E1pagos-Quito; all
instruction and Guide services; meals and lodging as stated in the
itinerary; all ground, water and air transportation within Ecuador.
=20
Does Not Include: Gal=E1pagos National Park tax (100.00US per person);
International airport departure tax (25.00US per person); gratuities and
personal items.
ECUADOR RAINFOREST EXTENSION-La Selva Jungle Lodge
LENGTH: 5 Days/4 Nights=20
DATES 2002: Jul 13-18
COST: 795.00US per person. Based on double occupancy.=20
=20
Includes: Round-trip Domestic airfare Quito-Coca-Quito; all instruction
and Guide services; meals and lodging as stated in the itinerary; all
ground, water and air transportation within Ecuador.
=20
Does Not Include: International airport departure tax (25.00US per
person); gratuities and personal items.
Contact Rainforest and Reef for detailed GAL=C1PAGOS and RAINFOREST
EXTENSION itineraries. These will also be at our website shortly.
Sincerely,
Mike Nolan
*********************************************************************
Rainforest and Reef 501 (c)(3) non-profit
29 Prospect NE Suite #8
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 USA
Phone/Fax: 616-776-5928/Toll Free: 877-769-3086
Cell Phone: 616-813-9308
E-mail: mnolan@rainforestandreef.org=20
Web: http://www.rainforestandreef.org=20
"Outstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest & Marine Ecology"
*********************************************************************
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 11:49:50 -0500
From: Doug Karpa-Wilson <dkarpawi@INDIANA.EDU>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion (morality of basic science)
I can think of three different approaches to take in thinking about this
question:
1) applied solutions generally rely on a solid basic understanding of the
underlying principles. Should fundamental research stop, there's a strong
likelihood that the applied solutions research would as well just with some
lag. We don't know of course, since we are talking about a long time frame.
2) Basic science is just one of a large class of activities that don't
directly alleviate world social problems. Then the question becomes not
whether basic science can exist but whether any other activity, such as art,
sport, Sunday afternoon barbecues, can honestly morally be undertaken when
such problems exist. Basic science at least has a claim to be aiding a
solution in a longer time frame, unlike say, baseball. Does the student
want to be in the position of advocating that baseball fans should be
obligated to do community service instead of little league on their weekend
afternoons? Perhaps they do, but it's probably important to realize the
question is much broader in its implications that just science.
3) It also seems to me that the opportunities to conduct basic science arise
from the way world society is structured, so one needs to also think about
how much one can hold people morally responsible for pursuing the avenues
they are presented with as a result of that social structure. I pursuing
basic science is not justified, it seems like many other careers are also
not justified if they do not have a bearing on this problem. Does this mean
that we should force all of the non-social-problem-fixing people out of
business as well? A high end confectioner can make a living because someone
has money to spend on such sweets, but this does not contribute to solving
social problems. Should the confectioner also be obligated to do something
instead that will help solve social problems. Again, your student may think
feel they should be, but what may matter is thinking about a broader context
to realize that reaching moral conclusions about basic science involves
moral conclusions about many other endeavors as well.
Just my rather longwinded two cents...
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 10:15:13 -0700
From: Jerome Rigot <jerome@CHEMISTRY.UCSC.EDU>
Subject: fire retardant plants
Hello,
My name is Jerome Rigot, I am not an ecologist per se but I
specialize in bioremediation/phytoremediation. I have a strong
interest in environmental/ecological restoration (the follow up of
phytoremediation in my mind) which is the reason I am a subscriber to
this list.
A friend of mine was contracted to set up an educational site for all
ages featuring fire retardant plants, preferably California native
plants. I think this topic may have been already discussed awhile
ago, but unfortunately I didn't keep the info.
So, I was wondering if anybody could point me to sites with lists,
descriptions, and sources of such plants, and also any information
directly from anybody's personal expertise would be helpful and
appreciated.
Sincerely,
Jerome Rigot, Ph.D
Environmental microbiologist
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 18:13:33 -0400
From: Oliver Kilian <oliver@CENTTEL.COM>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
Hi y'all
Certainly an intriguing topic, one that I'm sure will receive a healthy dose
of responses from this list.
In a sense, it touches on an aspect of science that has been an intellectual
dilemma for me for quite some time:
Most science is inherently based on reductionist thinking - studies and
experiments focus on the precise, the exact,
the limited, etc..... It is both this discipline's strength and its
weakness.
Ecology, and perhaps the philosophical investigations associated with
cosmology, is among the few
"ologies" that could be termed "expansionist" - i.e. looking at a bigger
picture.
Unfortunately, the majority of the world's real problems will never be
adequately dealt with using the
traditional reductionist scientific approach. Not to belittle the past and
ongoing efforts of researchers
of every discipline around the world, but I truly believe we do, and will,
need more people who can
synthesize workable solutions from a host of specialties if we are to solve
the big problems facing humanity - people
who respect others' specialties, and have a talent for placing
reductionist-gleaned knowledge into the
broader context. I guess that's another way of saying that specialization is
great, but we need more broad-minded
generalists. Too bad "the system" currently isn't set up that way - the
emphasis is on specialization. And frankly,
some of those specializations are pretty useless in terms of offering
insight or solutions into big real-world problems - those
would be the ones that serve only to perpetuate their own importance. I
admit that I can't think of a concrete example
off the top of my head, but I'd say any knowledge that makes you ask "So
what?" and doesn't return a convincing
response would fall into that category.
I'll probably need more beer or something to carry this train of thought
further. Thanks for the brain-food Monica.
Or should I say "Danke"?
Oliver K. Reichl
Forest Ecologist, Consulting Arborist
7 Oaks Urban Forestry Consultants, Inc.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 16:52:30 -0400
From: Jan Ciborowski <cibor@SERVER.UWINDSOR.CA>
Subject: Postdoctoral Position - Aquatic Ecology
Postdoctoral Position in Aquatic Ecology
MACROINVERTEBRATES AND FISHES AS ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORS
IN THE GREAT LAKES COASTAL ZONE.
UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR
A postdoctoral position is available for a field-oriented population or
community ecologist to participate in a collaborative 4-year project. The
goal of the Great Lakes Environmental Indicators (GLEI) study is to evaluate
and integrate indicators across multiple spatial scales. Complete project
information is available at http://glei.nrri.umn.edu. We are using a
multi-tiered sampling and modeling strategy, integrating data collected at
regional scales via satellite imagery, local scales via aerial photographs,
and site scales via field sampling to identify indicators at each scale that
reflect critical ecosystem process or state variables.
Responsibilities: The successful candidate with work with the team of
principal investigators to compile existing datasets, coordinate and
integrate new data, and develop indicators of environmental conditions
applicable across the Great Lakes basin. In summer, responsibilities will
include coordinating and/or leading field sampling teams.
Qualifications: Doctorate degree with specialization in aquatic ecology,
limnology, fisheries research, and/or invertebrate biology/aquatic
entomology. Strong field skills, an ability to work well in a cooperative
environment, and experience with operating powered boats on open water are
essential. Excellent written and spoken (English) communication skills also
are essential. Candidate must be willing and able to travel in the US for up
to two weeks at a time. Interests in quantitative ecological approaches to
hypothesis testing, and/or experience with data base management are
especially desirable.
Location: Position will be based at the University of Windsor, Ontario.
Summer field work will entail synoptic surveys of multiple shoreline and
nearshore reaches across the US Great Lakes.
Term: One year minimum, renewable.
Salary: Currently $30,000/yr.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply also to the University of
Windsor GLIER Postdoctoral Fellowship program. The Great Lakes Institute for
Environmental Research (http://www.uwindsor.ca/glier) supports up to five
Postdoctoral Fellowship positions, tenable for one year, renewable for a
second year. First priority for GLIER PDFs will be given to applications
received by 1 October 2001.
Contact: Send a statement of research interests, current curriculum vitae
documenting appropriate knowledge, skills, and experience, and the names,
telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of 3 individuals who can
substantiate work experience and skills, to:
Dr. Jan J.H. Ciborowski
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Windsor
Windsor Ontario, Canada
N9B 3P4
cibor@uwindsor.ca
----------------------------------------------------------------
Jan J.H. Ciborowski Tel.: (519) 253-3000 ext. 2725
Dept. of Biological Sciences Fax: (519) 971-3609
University of Windsor e-mail: cibor@uwindsor.ca
Windsor, ON, CANADA, N9B 3P4
CoDirector, Lake Erie Millennium Plan
Visit the web page at http://www.uwindsor.ca/erie2001
Biological Sciences web page: http://www.cs.uwindsor.ca/units/bio/index.htm
----------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 12:13:00 -0500
From: Dave McNeely <dlmcneely@LUNET.EDU>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion
Monica,
Everyone has to make decisions for himself or herself about how to apply
life. Recently I had occasion to reread a poem by Walt Whitman. I
won't quote, but will paraphrase: The question of me, and of life, is
why? The answer: You may contribute a verse.
The nature of the verse is up to the individual. I am not able to know
what present endeavors will lead to. Mendel was pursuing a purely
intellectual matter. So was Darwin. Now we have medical advances that
depend on the results of both men's work. And because Darwin's work was
ignored or not understood in some contexts, we have medical problems
that require solution, such as antibiotic resistance.
Some need to contribute their work for immediate solutions to particular
societal problems, and we need those contributions. Without the past
contributions of those who were pursuing purely intellectual
investigations, current attempts at solutions to specific societal
problems would be more difficult, perhaps impossible.
I know my examples are simplistic, and I have said this poorly, but I
hope it is understood.
Monica Schuegraf wrote:
>Hi everybody,
> Here from a questioning (questing?) student is question (or maybe mo
e
>than one) that have been wandering through my mind as I am pursuing my
>Masters. I would appreciate any responses, opinions on this matter -
>discussed with the entire list - or privately - whatever anyone prefers.
>
>Can the studying of science or any purely intellectual pursuit be justif
ed
>in a world that contains so much inequality? In a world where so many
>people do not even have access to the essentials (food, water, shelter)
>required for life? Perhaps justified is not the right word, as one can
>justify anything - but can it honestly be morally justified???
>
>Should not scientists (and all people undertaking research) be obligated
(by
>conscience) to study a subject, and to search for solutions that can app
y
>directly to problems the world faces?
>
>I am not sure I have managed to communicate all my concerns - but
>hopefully - the discussion will continue.
>
>Thanks
>Monica Schuegraf
>
>
>
>
>Monica Schuegraf
>Toronto, Ontario
>(416) 650-2249
>
--
David L. McNeely, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
P.O. Box 1500
Langston University
Langston, OK 73050
Telephone (405) 466-6025
Email dlmcneely@lunet.edu
"Are we there yet?"
Source unknown
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 18 Sep 2001 to 19 Sep 2001
There are 13 messages totalling 953 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. irony
2. SUSTAINABLE CITY 2002 ABSTRACT REMINDER
3. Job: Writer/Research Assist., Canaan Valley Institute
4. plant ecology internships at Archbold
5. FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by biotech
industry (2)
6. Fw: climate change and forests
7. IN defense of science was Re: Farmers' rights threatened by...
8. Faculty Position - Quantitative Conservation Ecology
9. A question - topic for discussion (morality of basic science)
10. basic and applied research
11. conservation remote sensing position
12. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 20:28:06 -0500
From: JD <wbis@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: irony
is it just me or is there a striking similarity between the taliban wanting
'proof' that bin laden was involved in the terrorist attacks of last week,
and certain people, organizations and institutions (who shall remain
nameless) wanting 'proof' that so-called greenhouse gases cause global
warming, health problems, etc...?
Joy
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 18:20:30 +0100
From: Lucy Southcott <lsouthcott@WESSEX.AC.UK>
Subject: SUSTAINABLE CITY 2002 ABSTRACT REMINDER
SUBJECT: The Sustainable City 2002
ABSTRACT DEADLINE : 9 OCT 2001
PLEASE IGNORE THIS REMINDER IF YOU HAVE ALREADY
SENT IN YOUR ABSTRACT TO US!
=================================================
Dear Colleague
THE SUSTAINABLE CITY 2002
3 - 5 July 2002, Segovia, Spain
http://www.wessex.ac.uk/conferences/2002/urs02/index.html
I trust that you have received the Call for Papers for the Second
International Conference on Urban Regeneration and Sustainability.
The organisation of the conference is progressing well and
abstracts are now being reviewed by the International Scientific
Committee. If you have not already submitted an abstract, there is
still time to do so before the deadline of 9 October 2001. I have
included a brief summary below of the objectives and topic areas of
the conference for your information. Full details about submitting an
abstract are available on the Conference Information Page at:
http://www.wessex.ac.uk/conferences/2002/urs02/index.html.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries about
the conference or require further information.
Best wishes
Lucy Southcott
Conference Secretariat
lsouthcott@wessex.ac.uk
=================================================
OBJECTIVES
The conference aims to address many interrelated aspects of the
urban environment from transport and mobility to social exclusions
and crime prevention. It is hoped that the meeting will build on the
contributions made in previous meetings, which successfully
provided an international view of the problems facing modern cities
and their solutions.
=================================================
TOPICS
Strategy and Development
Environmental Management
Environmental Pollution and Control
Land Use and Management
Transport Environment and Integation
Cultural Heritage and Architectural Issues
Planning, Development and Management
Restructuring and Renewal
The Community and the City
Public Safety and Security
Energy Demands
Global Trends
Traffic and Transportation
Mobility of Society
Telematics
=================================================
PROCEEDINGS
The Proceedings of the conference will be published in hard cover
book form by WIT Press and will be available to delegates at the
time of registration.
The language of the conference will be English.
=================================================
If you do not wish to receive future updates on conferences within
this field please email: REMOVE@wessex.ac.uk
=================================================
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 05:19:27 -0700
From: Emily Clifton <emily_clifton@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Job: Writer/Research Assist., Canaan Valley Institute
Below is a description for a new job opening at the Canaan Valley
Institute. Please send all inquiries/resumes to the address below
and not to me. Many thanks.
************************************
The Canaan Valley Institute (www.canaanvi.org) is currently seeking
applicants for the position of Writer/Research Assistant to be based
in its Thomas, WV office.
Duties:
Duties will involve collecting, integrating, prioritizing and
summarizing existing federal, state and academic studies on the
environmental condition of the mid-Atlantic Highlands. Other duties
may include planning and assisting with public forums/summits
throughout the Mid-Atlantic Highland area. Some travel throughout the
mid-Atlantic Highlands will be required.
Qualifications:
Qualified candidates must have a bachelor s degree in the Natural
Sciences or related field, possess demonstrated verbal/written
communications and analytical skills, and possess a valid vehicle
operator s license. This position offers a competitive salary and
full benefits package.
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume,
postmarked by October 5 to: Writer/Research Assistant; Canaan Valley
Institute; #1 Creative Place; NorthGate Business Park; Charleston, WV
25311; or submit electronically to personnel@canaanvi.org.
__________________________________________________
Terrorist Attacks on U.S. - How can you help?
Donate cash, emergency relief information
http://dailynews.yahoo.com/fc/US/Emergency_Information/
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 10:18:45 -0400
From: "Menges, Eric" <EMenges@ARCHBOLD-STATION.ORG>
Subject: plant ecology internships at Archbold
Research Internships in Plant Ecology, 2001, 2002:
Ideal for Students with Undergraduate Degrees Contemplating Graduate School
Includes independent research project. Provides Stipend, Room, and Board.
Openings are available starting in fall 2001, January 2002, and beyond for
research internships at Archbold Biological Station in south-central
Florida. Research in the plant ecology laboratory of Eric Menges emphasizes
conservation biology, plant demography, population viability assessment,
fire ecology, landscape ecology, and fire management. We study many species
of endemic vascular plants in endangered Florida scrub and related
communities. Active fire management provides outstanding opportunities for
short-term comparative studies in fire ecology. Our long-term (12-year)
datasets on dozens of scrub plants gives context to short-term, focused,
field projects.
Interns receive room, board, and a weekly stipend of $100. They work 20
hours per week as research assistants and the remainder on an independent
research project. Internships generally run for 4-6 months but are flexible
in their starting dates and durations. Internships offer an opportunity for
experience in every aspect of scientific research, from project choice and
experimental design to oral and written presentations.
Archbold Biological Station is active in research, conservation, and
education. Our facilities include a 2000 ha preserve, an outstanding
regional library and a GIS lab running ARCINFO. We have a staff of about 50
with many visiting scientists, an active seminar program, and a relaxed
biological station atmosphere. For more detail see archbold-station.org.
To apply for an internship in the plant ecology lab, email or mail: a letter
stating research interests, a resume or cv, a summary of grades, and have
two letters of recommendation emailed or mailed to:
Dr. Eric S. Menges
Archbold Biological Station, P.O. Box 2057, Lake Placid, Florida 33862 USA
Phone: 863-465-2571 FAX: 863-699-1927
Email: emenges@archbold-station.org <mailto:emenges@archbold-station.org>
Dr. Eric S. Menges
Archbold Biological Station
PO Box 2057 packages: 123 Main Dr.
Lake Placid, FL 33862 Venus, FL 33960
phone: 863-465-2571 ext. 235 or 234
fax: 863-699-1927
email: emenges@archbold-station.org
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 07:08:30 -0700
From: David Thomson <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
Subject: FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by biotec
industry
Hello,
I can't remember if the list has discussed this topic but just in case, and
in light of Monica's question, below is a report on one application of
science that I consider part of the problem. Can this trend be stopped?
David Thomson
-----Original Message-----
From: APFEJ [mailto:sobacine@sri.lanka.net]
Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2001 4:30 AM
To: environmentaljournalists@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by
biotech industry
From: FREDERICK NORONHA <fred@bytesforall.org>
FARMERS' RIGHTS THREATENED BY BIOTECH INDUSTRY
Although the Food and Agriculture Organisation adopted a resolution in 1989
introducing the concept of farmers' rights, the implementation of these
rights over the past decade has been very slow. The recent case of Percy
Schmeiser, the Canadian farmer, shows that farmers' rights are being
threatened by the biotech industry.
By Juan Lopez Villar
'I've been using my own seed for years, and now farmers like me are being
told we can't do that anymore if our neighbours are growing (genetically
modified) crops that blow in. ... Basically, the right to use our own seed
has been taken away.' - Percy Schmeiser, Canadian Farmer
At the end of March, a Canadian judge ordered farmer Percy Schmeiser to pay
Monsanto thousands of dollars because a genetically modified (GM) canola
variety patented by Monsanto was found growing on his field. This decision
was reached even though Schmeiser consistently stated that he did not grow
these seeds voluntarily, but that his crops were cross-pollinated by
modified plants from another farm. Although several similar lawsuits have
been filed against farmers in North America, this is the first case that
ended up in a trial.
The customary right of farmers to save, use and exchange their seeds and
other planting material is one of the cornerstones of agriculture.
Traditionally, farmers have saved their best seeds and used them again the
next year.
Now, however, companies sell GM seeds under the agreement that they be used
in a single season, forcing farmers to buy the new seed each year. For the
first time in history, farmers risk losing the right to save their seeds,
and along with that, their autonomy.
Percy Schmeiser's case underlines the increasing tension between farmers
and large biotech companies, which with their introduction of patented
genes intend to change traditional agricultural patterns forever. The
impact of these changes on farming communities worldwide could be
tremendous.
In the South, where people will likely not be able to afford high-tech
seeds and the associated chemical inputs year after year, the introduction
of GM seed varieties presents a particularly grave threat to the food
security and food sovereignty of thousands of local and indigenous farming
communities.
Seed diversity disappearing
Over 90% of the earth's remaining biodiversity is in Southern countries.
Local farming communities have preserved and reused their diverse
indigenous seed varieties over generations. Women have been the primary
contributors to this form of biodiversity management, identifying and
storing seeds each year.
The industrialisation of agriculture, initiated with the Green Revolution,
has pushed women aside and undermined genetic resources and the knowledge
associated with them through the promotion of a handful of cash crops.
Traditional seed varieties suffered another big blow during this process,
which also promoted the intensive use of agrochemicals in the environment.
Instead of learning from the mistakes of the past, we have now been thrust
into the Gene Revolution. This streamlined form of agriculture promotes the
planting of millions of hectares of land with just a few crops, such as
Monsanto's Round-up Ready soya, genetically engineered to resist the
company's own chemical pesticide. The rapid introduction of just a few GM
crops since 1996 is threatening to displace traditional varieties even more
aggressively than did the Green Revolution.
Seed security is food security
Plant genetic resources, like maize taken from the heart of Mexico,
constitute the basis of food and agriculture production throughout the
world today. Local and indigenous communities and farmers from all regions
of the world have made an enormous contribution to the spread of
agriculture.
The customary practice in indigenous and local communities of saving seeds
is a key component of their food security, guaranteeing access to the food
they need at all times. Shifting seed control into the hands of
multinationals would undermine the household food security of these
communities.
Strengthening farmers' rights
In 1989, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) adopted a resolution
that introduced the concept of farmers' rights. The resolution recognised
that farmers have conserved and improved plant genetic resources, the
majority of which came from developing countries, over millennia.
It further noted that the importance of these farmers' contributions has
not been sufficiently recognised or rewarded. The resolution describes
farmers' rights as 'vested in the International Community, as trustee for
present and future generations of farmers, for the purpose of ensuring full
benefits to farmers, and supporting the continuation of their
contributions'.
However, the implementation of these rights over the past decade has been
very slow, and the revision of the international undertaking on plant
genetic resources in food and agriculture under the FAO has not provided
strong provisions to protect farmers' rights.
Farmers' rights must be strengthened, and they must retain their rights to
save seeds. Farmers who choose not to grow GM crops should not be punished
by corporations seeking to control traditional resources, and cases like
that of Percy Schmeiser should not be repeated. - Third World Network
Features
-ends-
About the writer: Juan Lopez Villar is with FoE (Friends of the Earth)
Europe, and the FoEI GMO Programme.
The above article first appeared in the magazine LINK (April/June 2001).
When reproducing this feature, please credit Third World Network Features
and (if applicable) the cooperating magazine or agency involved in the
article, and give the byline. Please send us cuttings.
*****
Third World Network Features is a unique, reliable, independent features
service, monitoring the world through Third World Eyes, rather than blindly
reproducing the self-serving assertions of the Western media. The feature
service is available by email. We have special low rates for medium and
small newspapers.
Our phone numbers: 91-832-263305; 256479
Fax: 91-832-263305
Email: oib@goatelecom.com
Postal address:
Third World Network Features
Above Mapusa Clinic
Mapusa 403 507
Goa
India
------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor ---------------------~-->
FREE COLLEGE MONEY
CLICK HERE to search
600,000 scholarships!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/47cccB/4m7CAA/ySSFAA/Kv0qlB/TM
---------------------------------------------------------------------~->
___________________________________________________________________________
DISTRIBUTED BY THE WORLD ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNALISTS E-GROUP
List Owner: Asia Pacific Forum Of Environmental Journalists(APFEJ),
PO Box26,434/3-Sri jayawardenapura,SRI LANKA.<http://www.oneworld.org/sle
f>
phone:(+94-1)873131/827810 Fax:(+94-1)883187 Email:<afej@sri.lanka.net>
Post message; <environmentaljournalists@yahoogroups.com>
List-Unsubscribe;<environmentaljournalists-Unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com>
Archive; http://www.yahoogroups.com/group/environmentaljournalists
__________________________________________________________________________
Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 12:20:46 -0400
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Fw: climate change and forests
----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Crowley" <scrowley@winooski.k12.vt.us>
Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2001 10:47 PM
Subject: climate change and forests
The September issue of BioScience magazine has just arrived, with an
extensive special section on climate change and forest systems, in the
sense of effects of climate change on forest systems (rather than vice
versa, which has gotten a lot more airplay).
I believe the web access is by subscription (via www.aibs.org), so you
may
have to check your local library or neighborhood biologist for a copy.
Steve Crowley
- -
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 11:29:44 -0500
From: Doug Karpa-Wilson <dkarpawi@INDIANA.EDU>
Subject: IN defense of science was Re: Farmers' rights threatened by...
This is an application of law not science, in reality, and it's extremely
unfortunate that the two are so often confused. Notice that these conflicts
involve courts, lawsuits, and damages, not experiments, labs and results. A
change of law (not scientific practice) to allow farmers to grow seeds from
their own crops would pretty well stop some of these problems cold. A
change of policy (again, not science) to institute a mechanism to preserve
traditional genetic diversity would ameliorate the other problems mentioned.
In both cases, the issues have their roots in policy, law, economics and
business practices, not science. Indeed, these same problems would exist
even in the absence of GM crops if seed companies were able to get
governments to institute laws preventing farmers from planting their own
seeds under any circumstances in order to boost their sales.
As a scientist, I get a wee bit grumpy about disparagement of the field when
scientists play essentially no role in creating and maintaining these
problems
Another two cents into the ether...
Doug Karpa-Wilson
Post Doc & Instructional Consultant
Indiana University
----- Original Message -----
From: "David Thomson" <dthomson@HARVEYECOLOGY.COM>
To: <ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU>
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 9:08 AM
Subject: FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by
biotech industry
> Hello,
>
> I can't remember if the list has discussed this topic but just in case,
and
> in light of Monica's question, below is a report on one application of
> science that I consider part of the problem. Can this trend be stopped
>
> David Thomson
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 10:49:47 -0700
From: Vicky Hollenbeck <hollenbv@UCS.ORST.EDU>
Subject: Re: FW: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by
biotech industry
Dear Ecologgers:
It seems to me that about a year ago there was an issue with a product
that Monsanto produced - the Terminator seed. This was a crop seed with a
GM trait (forgive me, I don't remember the trait or crop; perhaps Bt pest
resistance) that was also engineered to yield plants that failed to
produce new (or viable) seed. The issue was that each year farmers would
have to buy new GM seed from Monsanto. This was perceived by many to be
quite unfair to the farmers wishing to use the GM seed, as they
traditionally could harvest new seed each year and not have to repurchase
every year. I believe that Monsanto pulled the product off the market.
Considering the case below, would it be more equitable to have Terminator
genes (in this case non-viable pollen or non-flowering crops) in GM seed
so that other farmers' crops wouldn't be contaminated? The farmers
choosing the GM seeds do have the option to purchase non-GM seed. So is
it unfair to them to have a Terminator gene in their GM seed? It seems
highly unjust to me that a farmer whose crops were inadvertently crossed
with GM pollen should have to pay for it.
Of course many will say, "Don't have GM crops at all" but given that for
now GM crops are being grown, what do you say about Terminator-type gene?
Respectfully,
Vicky Hollenbeck
Biological Technician
Department of Forest Science
Oregon State University
On Wed, 19 Sep 2001, David Thomson wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I can't remember if the list has discussed this topic but just in case,
and
> in light of Monica's question, below is a report on one application of
> science that I consider part of the problem. Can this trend be stopped
>
> David Thomson
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: APFEJ [mailto:sobacine@sri.lanka.net]
> Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2001 4:30 AM
> To: environmentaljournalists@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [environmentaljournalists] Farmers' rights threatened by
> biotech industry
>
>
> From: FREDERICK NORONHA <fred@bytesforall.org>
>
> FARMERS' RIGHTS THREATENED BY BIOTECH INDUSTRY
>
> Although the Food and Agriculture Organisation adopted a resolution in
989
> introducing the concept of farmers' rights, the implementation of these
> rights over the past decade has been very slow. The recent case of Perc
> Schmeiser, the Canadian farmer, shows that farmers' rights are being
> threatened by the biotech industry.
>
> By Juan Lopez Villar
>
> 'I've been using my own seed for years, and now farmers like me are bei
g
> told we can't do that anymore if our neighbours are growing (geneticall
> modified) crops that blow in. ... Basically, the right to use our own s
ed
> has been taken away.' - Percy Schmeiser, Canadian Farmer
>
> At the end of March, a Canadian judge ordered farmer Percy Schmeiser to
pay
> Monsanto thousands of dollars because a genetically modified (GM) canol
> variety patented by Monsanto was found growing on his field. This decis
on
> was reached even though Schmeiser consistently stated that he did not g
ow
> these seeds voluntarily, but that his crops were cross-pollinated by
> modified plants from another farm. Although several similar lawsuits ha
e
> been filed against farmers in North America, this is the first case tha
> ended up in a trial.
>
> The customary right of farmers to save, use and exchange their seeds an
> other planting material is one of the cornerstones of agriculture.
> Traditionally, farmers have saved their best seeds and used them again
he
> next year.
>
> Now, however, companies sell GM seeds under the agreement that they be
sed
> in a single season, forcing farmers to buy the new seed each year. For
he
> first time in history, farmers risk losing the right to save their seed
,
> and along with that, their autonomy.
>
> Percy Schmeiser's case underlines the increasing tension between farmer
> and large biotech companies, which with their introduction of patented
> genes intend to change traditional agricultural patterns forever. The
> impact of these changes on farming communities worldwide could be
> tremendous.
>
> In the South, where people will likely not be able to afford high-tech
> seeds and the associated chemical inputs year after year, the introduct
on
> of GM seed varieties presents a particularly grave threat to the food
> security and food sovereignty of thousands of local and indigenous farm
ng
> communities.
>
> Seed diversity disappearing
>
> Over 90% of the earth's remaining biodiversity is in Southern countries
> Local farming communities have preserved and reused their diverse
> indigenous seed varieties over generations. Women have been the primary
> contributors to this form of biodiversity management, identifying and
> storing seeds each year.
>
> The industrialisation of agriculture, initiated with the Green Revoluti
n,
> has pushed women aside and undermined genetic resources and the knowled
e
> associated with them through the promotion of a handful of cash crops.
> Traditional seed varieties suffered another big blow during this proces
,
> which also promoted the intensive use of agrochemicals in the environme
t.
>
> Instead of learning from the mistakes of the past, we have now been thr
st
> into the Gene Revolution. This streamlined form of agriculture promotes
the
> planting of millions of hectares of land with just a few crops, such as
> Monsanto's Round-up Ready soya, genetically engineered to resist the
> company's own chemical pesticide. The rapid introduction of just a few
M
> crops since 1996 is threatening to displace traditional varieties even
ore
> aggressively than did the Green Revolution.
>
> Seed security is food security
>
> Plant genetic resources, like maize taken from the heart of Mexico,
> constitute the basis of food and agriculture production throughout the
> world today. Local and indigenous communities and farmers from all regi
ns
> of the world have made an enormous contribution to the spread of
> agriculture.
>
> The customary practice in indigenous and local communities of saving se
ds
> is a key component of their food security, guaranteeing access to the f
od
> they need at all times. Shifting seed control into the hands of
> multinationals would undermine the household food security of these
> communities.
>
> Strengthening farmers' rights
>
> In 1989, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) adopted a resoluti
n
> that introduced the concept of farmers' rights. The resolution recognis
d
> that farmers have conserved and improved plant genetic resources, the
> majority of which came from developing countries, over millennia.
>
> It further noted that the importance of these farmers' contributions ha
> not been sufficiently recognised or rewarded. The resolution describes
> farmers' rights as 'vested in the International Community, as trustee f
r
> present and future generations of farmers, for the purpose of ensuring
ull
> benefits to farmers, and supporting the continuation of their
> contributions'.
>
> However, the implementation of these rights over the past decade has be
n
> very slow, and the revision of the international undertaking on plant
> genetic resources in food and agriculture under the FAO has not provide
> strong provisions to protect farmers' rights.
>
> Farmers' rights must be strengthened, and they must retain their rights
to
> save seeds. Farmers who choose not to grow GM crops should not be punis
ed
> by corporations seeking to control traditional resources, and cases lik
> that of Percy Schmeiser should not be repeated. - Third World Network
> Features
>
> -ends-
>
> About the writer: Juan Lopez Villar is with FoE (Friends of the Earth)
> Europe, and the FoEI GMO Programme.
>
> The above article first appeared in the magazine LINK (April/June 2001)
>
> When reproducing this feature, please credit Third World Network Featur
s
> and (if applicable) the cooperating magazine or agency involved in the
> article, and give the byline. Please send us cuttings.
>
> *****
> Third World Network Features is a unique, reliable, independent feature
> service, monitoring the world through Third World Eyes, rather than bli
dly
> reproducing the self-serving assertions of the Western media. The featu
e
> service is available by email. We have special low rates for medium and
> small newspapers.
>
> Our phone numbers: 91-832-263305; 256479
> Fax: 91-832-263305
> Email: oib@goatelecom.com
>
> Postal address:
> Third World Network Features
> Above Mapusa Clinic
> Mapusa 403 507
> Goa
> India
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor ---------------------~-->
> FREE COLLEGE MONEY
> CLICK HERE to search
> 600,000 scholarships!
> http://us.click.yahoo.com/47cccB/4m7CAA/ySSFAA/Kv0qlB/TM
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------~->
>
> _______________________________________________________________________
___
> DISTRIBUTED BY THE WORLD ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNALISTS E-GROUP
> List Owner: Asia Pacific Forum Of Environmental Journalists(APFEJ),
> PO Box26,434/3-Sri jayawardenapura,SRI LANKA.<http://www.oneworld.or
/slejf>
> phone:(+94-1)873131/827810 Fax:(+94-1)883187 Email:<afej@sri.lanka.n
t>
> Post message; <environmentaljournalists@yahoogroups.com>
> List-Unsubscribe;<environmentaljournalists-Unsubscribe@yahoogroups.c
m>
> Archive; http://www.yahoogroups.com/group/environmentaljournalists
> _______________________________________________________________________
__
>
>
>
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/term
/
>
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 10:25:34 -0700
From: Douglas Deutschman <doug@SCIENCES.SDSU.EDU>
Subject: Faculty Position - Quantitative Conservation Ecology
============================================================
FACULTY POSITION IN QUANTITATIVE CONSERVATION ECOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/facjobs/quantitativeconservation.html
============================================================
The Department of Biology at San Diego State University offers a
tenure-track position in its Ecology Program Area, to begin Fall 2002 at
the assistant professor level in Quantitative Conservation Ecology. We
are seeking an outstanding scientist having a research focus in applied,
quantitative ecology to support a program area emphasis in conservation
and restoration ecology. Research interests should include, but need not
be limited to, population viability analysis, risk assessment,
simulation-based modeling across landscapes, individual-based modeling, or
a blend of field-based studies and mathematical or simulation-based
methods in population demography. We expect candidates to develop local
research programs that integrate with regional management needs. Primary
teaching responsibility will be an upper division/graduate level course in
population dynamics. In addition, participation in undergraduate
biostatistics, conservation ecology and general ecology and supervision of
graduate students will be expected.
Postdoctoral experience is desirable and candidates must have demonstrated
externally funded research activity. Consideration will include the
candidate's perceived match to our programmatic strengths including
research emphases, teaching innovation, and student mentoring.
Expectations include interaction with a diverse student body and 13
ecology faculty with Ecosystem/Global Change, Conservation/Restoration and
Coastal Marine Ecology emphases.
The Ecology Program Area consists of 13 ecologists with research interests
in population ecology, ecosystem/global change ecology and
conservation/restoration ecology of both terrestrial and aquatic systems.
The program offers a research-oriented Master's Degree and a Joint
Doctoral Degree in Ecology with the University of California, Davis. In
addition, SDSU's Evolutionary Biology program consists of 11 faculty with
diverse research interests, including systematics, phylogeographic
analysis, and applied conservation genetics.
The San Diego region offers excellent opportunities for ecological
research. The region contains high biodiversity and hosts a major
concentration of rare and endangered species. While the area is
characterized by rapid urbanization, large reserve systems are currently
being designed and implemented throughout Southern California as part of
the Natural Communities Conservation Planning program. In addition,
management and monitoring programs are being developed for a number of
threatened and endangered species, providing opportunities for
collaboration with other conservation scientists, agency biologists, and
non-profit conservation groups. Local marine habitats include rocky
shorelines, kelp beds, Mission Bay, San Diego Bay, the Salton Sea, the
Tijuana National Estuarine Research Reserve, and several other smaller
estuaries. SDSU has three field stations with a combined total area of
over 6,000 acres. The Ecology Program Area has extensive equipment and
facilities available, including those for nutrient analysis, ecosystem
metabolism, and CO2 research. Well-equipped computer facilities,
greenhouses and growth chambers, an electron microscope facility, and
individual and shared equipment for molecular analyses (DNA, RNA and
protein) are maintained by the Biology Department.
Teaching is an important responsibility of the faculty at SDSU.
Candidates for this position will be evaluated on the basis of their
willingness and ability to contribute to the teaching program, as well as
their desire and prospects for developing a strong research program.
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, separate statements of
research and teaching interests, 3 representative publications, and
arrange for 3 letters of recommendation to be sent to:
Quantitative Conservation Ecologist Search Committee
Department of Biology
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-4614
Review of applications will begin October 1, 2001, and will continue until
the position has been filled.
SDSU is proud of our diverse student population. SDSU is an Equal
Opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons on the
basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender,
marital status, age or disability.
============================================================
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 09:40:42 -1000
From: Dan Gruner <dgruner@HAWAII.EDU>
Subject: Re: A question - topic for discussion (morality of basic science)
In my opinion, Dougs' response brings up three excellent points.
Monica's question comes up again and again in many contexts, such as with
controversial artwork, but one needs to distinguish clearly where the
funding comes from. If you pay for it yourself, then your decision to
become a corporate raider (stereotype) is your own. If the public pays for
it, then these questions need be asked. (Of course I ignore ultimate
sources of private wealth, another complex and controversial topic).
Basic ecology could not proceed effectively without a system of taxonomic
classification. Try to imagine doing your job without a unified systems of
names and relationships. In similar manner, I submit that applied ecology
fundamentally depends on basic ecology in order to be effective. But to say
that one or the other does not contribute to society is a vast
over-simplification of a complex issue.
And enough baseball bashing! Baseball can teach youths great fundamentals
about teamwork, physical fitness, muscular coordination, etc. And in sad
and trying times such as these, it also provides a much needed mental
distraction for millions of Americans. Something to cheer for, so to speak,
when all else seems very trivial.
Aloha
Dan
At 06:49 AM 9/18/01, Doug Karpa-Wilson wrote:
>I can think of three different approaches to take in thinking about this
>question:
>
>
>1) applied solutions generally rely on a solid basic understanding of th
>underlying principles. Should fundamental research stop, there's a stro
g
>likelihood that the applied solutions research would as well just with s
me
>lag. We don't know of course, since we are talking about a long time fr
me.
>
>2) Basic science is just one of a large class of activities that don't
>directly alleviate world social problems. Then the question becomes not
>whether basic science can exist but whether any other activity, such as
rt,
>sport, Sunday afternoon barbecues, can honestly morally be undertaken wh
n
>such problems exist. Basic science at least has a claim to be aiding a
>solution in a longer time frame, unlike say, baseball. Does the student
>want to be in the position of advocating that baseball fans should be
>obligated to do community service instead of little league on their week
nd
>afternoons? Perhaps they do, but it's probably important to realize the
>question is much broader in its implications that just science.
>
>3) It also seems to me that the opportunities to conduct basic science a
ise
>from the way world society is structured, so one needs to also think abo
t
>how much one can hold people morally responsible for pursuing the avenue
>they are presented with as a result of that social structure. I pursuin
>basic science is not justified, it seems like many other careers are als
>not justified if they do not have a bearing on this problem. Does this
ean
>that we should force all of the non-social-problem-fixing people out of
>business as well? A high end confectioner can make a living because som
one
>has money to spend on such sweets, but this does not contribute to solvi
g
>social problems. Should the confectioner also be obligated to do someth
ng
>instead that will help solve social problems. Again, your student may t
ink
>feel they should be, but what may matter is thinking about a broader con
ext
>to realize that reaching moral conclusions about basic science involves
>moral conclusions about many other endeavors as well.
>
>Just my rather longwinded two cents...
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 17:17:48 -0400
From: Joseph Paul Gathman <gathmanj@PILOT.MSU.EDU>
Subject: basic and applied research
Yet another response to Monica's questions:
two points-
1. One may also ask why EVERYBODY doesn't drop what they are doing and chan
e
careers or redirect their efforts to solve world problems. As a previous
poster suggested: do we REALLY need Lara Croft and her gravity-defying anato
y?
How about "Lunchables"? Do we really need something that can be "lunched"?
And I bet we already have more than enough insurance executives, lawyers, pr
"wrestlers", and car salespersons. At least scientists serve some higher
ideals while we are satisfying our geeky, esoteric interests.
2. A more useful response with a concrete example: I am currently working
n
a project in which we are trying to determine the likelihood of invasive
species being introduced by a large water-management project currently being
proposed - an applied issue to be sure. However, our efforts are GREATLY
hindered by the fact that basic surveys in the area are scarce, basic resear
h
on species interactions are lacking, and taxonomy of many groups is in a
tremendous state of disarray. How can we identify species of concern when w
can't even identify the species in the first place?! This is a great exampl
of the importance of "esoteric" basic research because taxonomy has fallen o
t
of favor as a specialty of choice, yet it is extremely important in the
problems we now face in the world, especially as molecular techniques threat
n
to redefine many species designations.
Joe Gathman
Aquatic Ecologist
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 17:16:40 -0400
From: "Sanderson, Eric" <esanderson@WCS.ORG>
Subject: conservation remote sensing position
**POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT**
ASSISTANT CONSERVATION ECOLOGIST, REMOTE SENSING ANALYSIS
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) seeks a postdoctoral associate
in remote sensing analysis for a two-year position based at the Bronx
Zoo in New York City. The associate will work with the Landscape
Ecology and Geographic Analysis Program to integrate applications of
remote sensing technology into the international conservation activities
of the Society through exemplary studies in collaboration with WCS field
scientists and conservationists. The associate will also be expected to
prepare and teach training courses in remote sensing analysis to
conservation biologists from around the world and to provide specific
support in satellite remote sensing, aerial photography and videography,
and general support in geographic information systems (GIS), global
positioning systems (GPS) and other related geospatial technologies to
WCS staff and partners. This position is highly collaborative and
represents a significant opportunity to find new and effective ways to
use remote sensing to further conservation of wildlife and wild places.
The starting salary for the position is $36,000/year. The Wildlife
Conservation Society, formerly the New York Zoological Society, works to
save wildlife and wild places through 300 applied conservation and
research projects in 52 countries around the world. To apply for this
position, send a cover letter describing why you care about remote
sensing and its applications to conservation, your curriculum vitae, and
a list of at least three references by regular mail to Human Resources
Department, Box: ACE, Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern
Blvd., Bronx, NY 10460. Please specify your date of availability. All
materials must be received by October 15, 2001 for full consideration.
Questions about the position should be addressed to Dr. Eric Sanderson.
(phone: 718-220-6825; email: esanderson@wcs.org)
Qualifications:
A Ph.D. in ecology, geography or remote sensing science or similar
discipline with extensive experience in remote sensing image acquisition
and processing, and the interpretation of remotely sensed data for
ecological or conservation purposes. The successful applicant will be
fluent in major image processing software packages and have had
experience with many different kinds of remotely sensed data, including
aerial photography, optical remote sensing, and/or radar remote sensing
techniques. Experience with new NASA satellite technologies (e.g.
MODIS, ASTER, MISR, Landsat-7, etc.) is especially desired. The
applicant should be able to explain remote sensing data, methods and
interpretation, and their application to conservation problems, to
non-specialist scientists as well as to the general public. The
applicant should have excellent writing and speaking skills in English
and a demonstrated ability to publish in scientific journals. Language
ability in languages other than English preferred.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001 16:00:18 -0400
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Director of Education
Company: Ogden Nature Center
Location: Ogden, Utah
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4522
------------------------------
End of ECOLOG-L Digest - 18 Sep 2001 to 19 Sep 2001
***************************************************
ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ
Thanks to discussion with TVR, I have decided to put a link to back files of the discussion group. This months back files.
The link to complete archives is available elsewhere.
This text was originally an e-mail. It was converted using a program
RUPANTAR- a simple e-mail-to-html converter.
(c)Kolatkar Milind. kmilind@ces.iisc.ernet.in