Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 11 Oct 2001 to 12 Oct 2001
To: Recipients of ECOLOG-L digests <ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU>
Status: R
There are 19 messages totalling 1277 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. riparian ecology
2. NPS Plant Ecologist Job Announcement - Colorado Plateau
3. Riparian Ecology
4. Citation (2)
5. Watershed Circuit Rider Position - Staunton, Va
6. Textbook for physiological ecology
7. MEDPINE 2, Chania, Crete, Sep. 8-13, 2002
8. community similarity
9. Asst. Prof., Tropical Forestry
10. Available PAID internship opportunites through ECO at NOAA (need more
info? visit www.eco.org!!!)
11. Earth Policy Institute - ECO-ECONOMY book
12. Assistantships in plant diversity research
13. Post-Doctoral Position, Reservoir Research
14. principal components analysis
15. Advanced Conservation GIS Course
16. conservation news
17. job ad, wildlife ecologist
18. The World Biodiversity Database
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Oct 2001 18:00:33 -0700
From: Lisa Owens-Viani <Lowensvi@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Re: riparian ecology
Restoring Streams in Cities by Ann Riley (Island Press) has lots of good flu
ial
geomorphology in it too. It is not restricted to urban streams as the title
suggests.
Lisa Viani
"Swain, Pat (FWE) (Pat Swain)" wrote:
> For in-river work I've recently had recommended and obtained
> Rosgen, Dave. 1996. Applied river morphology. Wildland Hydrology, Pagos
> Springs, CO (and associated field guide) (Ordered directly from publi
her,
> delivered within 2 weeks)
> the recommender works with macro-invertebrates and pointed out tha
riffles
>
> aren't discussed, nor is it generally focussed on habitats - but it is
a
> very good basis for river morphology. Aimed at practitioners rather tha
> students, I think. Many of the photos are from Colorado.
>
> The fisheries biologists here all recommend (for fish habitat, and beyo
d)
> Hynes, H.B.N. 1970. The ecology of running waters. University of Toront
> Press. (recently reprinted by Blackburn Press, as announced on Ecolo
-L. I
> ordered a copy from Amazon.com over a month ago and haven't heard a wor
, I
> haven't seen it so can't give an opinion beyond that provided by multip
e
> fisheries biologists. )
>
> Pat
> -----------
> Patricia Swain Phone: 508-792-7270 x
60
> Plant Community Ecologist FAX: 508-792-7821
> Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
> Division of Fisheries & Wildlife
> Rt. 135
> Westborough, MA 01581
>
> I am looking for a mid- to upper-level undergraduate textbook for a
> course on riparian systems that I will be teaching in the spring.
> Preferably, the book will address the role of fluvial hydrology &
> geomorphology in this context. Does anyone know of such a text, or
> have any suggestions?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Gabrielle Katz
>
> Department of Geology
> The Colorado College
> Colorado Springs, Colorado 80309
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Oct 2001 16:40:28 -0600
From: Angela_Evenden@NPS.GOV
Subject: NPS Plant Ecologist Job Announcement - Colorado Plateau
Vegetation Classification & Mapping Ecologist
Northern Colorado Plateau Network
National Park Service
October 11, 2001
The Northern Colorado Plateau Network (NCPN) Inventory and Monitoring
Program anticipates hiring an ecologist to lead a vegetation mapping and
classification project. This will be a term (not to exceed 4 years), full
time position, hired at the GS-12 grade (currently $51,927-$67,500 annual
salary). This position is in the 408 job series (ecologist). This
position is open to federal status and non-status applicants. Please look
for the job announcement on USAJobs web site beginning Monday, October 15
(see application procedures below).
The incumbent will work in a fast-paced, team atmosphere with a motivated
group of specialists and park staff in completing vegetation classification
and mapping for 11 National Parks and Monuments during the next 4 years.
Major duties include project development and administration, oversight of
budgets, contracting and agreements for aerial photography and photo
interpretation work, hiring and supervising field crews, conducting
classification data analysis and preparing plant association descriptions.
The position requires the ability to clearly communicate ideas in writing
and in oral presentation to park managers, other agencies, organizations
and individuals, and to do so in ways to solicit motivation, understanding
and support. Protocols for the project will follow NPS/USGS vegetation
mapping and classification procedures described on the program web site at
http://biology.gov/npsveg/.
Additional information:
The position will be based at either Colorado National Monument, Fruita,
Colorado, or the Southeast Utah Group, Moab, Utah. The position will
involve a combination of office work, field time and travel to the parks.
Colorado National Monument is located 7 miles from Fruita and 15 miles from
Grand Junction, Colorado. Moab, UT is a town of approximately 9,000
residents located along the Colorado River in Southeast Utah. Climate of
these areas is typical high desert, semi-arid, with temperature ranges from
0 in winter to 100+ in summer.
The Northern Colorado Plateau Inventory and Monitoring Network encompasses
the following 16 park units in Utah, Colorado, Arizona and Wyoming: Arches
NP, Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Canyonlands NP,
Capitol Reef NP, Cedar Breaks NM, Colorado NM, Curecanti NRA, Dinoosaur NM,
Fossil Butte NM, Golden Spike NHS, Hovenweep NM, Natural Bridges NM, Pipe
Springs NM, Timpanogos Cave NM, and Zion NP. Information on the National
Park Service Inventory Monitoring Program and Natural Resource Challenge
can be found at the following web sites
http://www1.nature.nps.gov/challenge/NRC.htm and
http://wwwl.nature.nps.gov/im/index.html .
Application procedures:
The vacancy announcement (SEUG-MP/DEU-01-11) will be posted on the USAJobs
web site (http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/) from October 15 to November 13.
This position is open to all sources. Application forms and detailed
application instructions will be available at the USAJobs web site.
Carefully follow instructions in the job announcement. For more
information please contact Dr. Angie Evenden, Northern Colorado Plateau
Network Program Manager via electronic mail (angela_evenden@nps.gov) or by
phone (435-719-2342).
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 08:54:10 -0600
From: Peter Koetsier <PKOET@BOISESTATE.EDU>
Subject: Re: Riparian Ecology
Hi Pat,
A book I used for a upper division/grad level course in riparian ecology =
was:
Malanson, G. P. 1996. Riparian landscapes. Cambridge studies in ecology, =
Cambridge Univ. Press.
It was a great book that did look at river geomorphology and the biological=
systems that it governed. I supplemented this with articles from the =
primary literature. The students enjoyed it.
Pete Koetsier
Dept of Biology
Boise State University
Boise, ID
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 11:50:43 EST
From: Joe Poston <jpposton@CATAWBA.EDU>
Subject: Citation
I've spent a few days trying to track down a paper that I read awhile back,
ith
no luck.
I'm hoping that someone on this list will be familiar with the paper, and ca
send me the
citation.
The paper appeared in American Biology Teacher (or a similar journal). It
focused on the
scientific method, and in particular how the description of the scientific
method that
is portrayed in textbooks is often inaccurate. As an example to illustrate t
e
author's
message, he or she described Tim Caro's studies of antipredator behavior in
gazelles.
Sincerely,
Joe Poston
********************
Joe Poston, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
Catawba College
2300 West Innes Street
Salisbury, NC 28144-2488
Phone: (704) 637-4443
Fax: (704) 637-4204
jpposton@catawba.edu
http://www.catawba.edu/dept/biology/poston.html
********************
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 10:37:33 -0700
From: Emily Clifton <emily_clifton@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Watershed Circuit Rider Position - Staunton, Va
Position Title: Watershed Circuit Rider
Organization: Canaan Valley Institute
Canaan Valley Institute (www.canaanvi.org) is currently seeking
applicants for a watershed circuit rider to be based in its Staunton,
VA office. This position will provide assistance to local watershed
and community-based initiatives within the CVI service area of the
mid-Atlantic Highlands. This could include support in organization,
facilitation, problem identification as well as aiding local groups
with development of solutions, delivering educational programs, and
implementation strategies.
Qualified candidates must have a four-year undergraduate degree in
social or natural science, have demonstrated experience working with
volunteer groups and possess a valid operators license (as
significant travel within the mid-Atlantic Highlands is required).
Interested parties should submit a cover letter and resume,
postmarked by November 2 to: Watershed Circuit Rider; Canaan Valley
Institute; #1 Creative Place; NorthGate Business Park; Charleston, WV
25311 or submit electronically to personnel@canaanvi.org.
__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Make a great connection at Yahoo! Personals.
http://personals.yahoo.com
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 13:51:42 -0400
From: Mary Beth Voltura <volturamb@SNYCORVA.CORTLAND.EDU>
Subject: Textbook for physiological ecology
I'm looking for recommendations for textbooks for a class (at a senior
undergrad level) in animal physiological ecology. I'm interested in more
than a good basic physiology text--I'd prefer something geared towards
environmental physiology.
I've got Physiological Animal Ecology by Louw, and Enviroronmental
Physiology of Animals by Willmer, Stone and Johnston.
Any other suggestions out there?
Mary Beth
********************************************
Mary Beth Voltura
Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
SUNY College at Cortland
Cortland NY 13045
(607) 753-2713
volturamb@cortland.edu
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 13:29:45 +0200
From: Gidi Ne'eman <gneeman@RESEARCH.HAIFA.AC.IL>
Subject: MEDPINE 2, Chania, Crete, Sep. 8-13, 2002
Dear all,
We are glad to invite you to participate in
MEDPINE 2, Chania, Crete, Sep. 8-13, 2002
Co-organized by the University of Athens and MAICh
MEDPINE 2, an International Conference on Mediterranean Pines will take
place at MAICh, Chania, Crete, Greece, on Sep. 8-13, 2002.
It is the second conference in the series after MEDPINE, held in Israel,
February 1999.
For more information and registration please visit:
http://www.cc.uoa.gr/biology/MEDPINE2.htm/
C. Thanos
G. Ne'eman
*******************************************************************
Dr. Gidi Ne'eman
Head Department of Biology, University of Haifa at Oranim,
Tivon 36006, ISRAEL
Phone +972 4 9838820, +972 4 9838819, Fax +972 4 9832167
E-mail: gneeman@research.haifa.ac.il
Homepage:
http://web.macam98.ac.il/~biology
http://web.macam98.ac.il/~gidi
*******************************************************************
Ecology, biogeography and management of Pinus halepensis and P. Brutia
forest ecosystems in the Mediterranean basin, Edited by Gidi Ne'eman & Louis
Trabaud. http://www.backhuys.com
*******************************************************************
MEDPINE 2, Chania, Crete, Sep. 8-13, 2002
http://www.cc.uoa.gr/biology/MEDPINE2.htm/
*******************************************************************
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 04:48:05 -0500
From: Kim Withers <kwithers@FALCON.TAMUCC.EDU>
Subject: community similarity
There is a beta version of some software that does a variety of community
similarity measures including some of the ones you've listed as well as a
bunch of other things like diversity evenness etc. I personally use the
Bray-Curtis Cluster Analysis of Community Similarity, largely because of the
nice dendrograms you get that are really illustrative of the data. The
software is Biodiversity Pro and you can download it from
http://www.nrmc.demon.co.uk/bdpro/. There are a few little weird glitches
in the software - but nothing that affects the results, just occasional
weirdness where the program seems to go into a loop and shuts down and
needing to have at least 2 columns of data to do diversity - so occasionally
you might need to make a dummy column. Just be sure you save your data
sheets as soon as you have them in there so if it does freak out on you you
have the data so you can start over. Pretty good intuitive program and you
can bring in your excel data sheets by copy and pasting. All in all, I
think its a great program and so much more user friendly than the old qbasic
programs I used to use.
Kim Withers, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Center for Coastal Studies
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
6300 Ocean Drive
Corpus Christi, Texas 78412
(361) 825-5907
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 11:07:07 -0400
From: Daniel Zarin <zarin@UFL.EDU>
Subject: Asst. Prof., Tropical Forestry
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF TROPICAL FORESTRY
The School of Forest Resources and Conservation and the Center for Latin
American Studies at the University of Florida invite applications at the
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR level for a 12-month, tenure-accruing position in
tropical forestry with 70% research and 30% teaching responsibilities. The
successful candidate will develop an internationally recognized research
program and teach a course in tropical forestry and an interdisciplinary
graduate seminar on tropical conservation and development. Candidates
should have a Ph.D. in forestry or a related field and have experience in
Latin America. Application deadline is December 10, 2001. Please see
http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/announce.html for a complete job description. Send
curriculum vitae, statements of professional goals and teaching philosophy,
official transcripts of academic work, and names and contact information
for three references to: Dr. P.K. Nair, Chair, Search and Screen
Committee, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of
Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0410, USA. (e-mail: <pknair@ufl.edu>;
tel.
(352) 846-0880; fax. (352) 846-1277; refer to position 911070. The
University of Florida is an equal opportunity, equal access, affirmative
action employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
Daniel J. Zarin, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Tropical Forestry
& Executive Director, Forest Management Trust
School of Forest Resources and Conservation
University of Florida
P.O. Box 110760
Gainesville FL 32611-0760
TEL: +1-352-846-1247
FAX: +1-352-846-1332
EMAIL: zarin@ufl.edu
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 12:10:50 -0400
From: Keri Salzillo <ksalzillo@ECO.ORG>
Subject: Available PAID internship opportunites through ECO at NOAA (need mo
e
info? visit www.eco.org!!!)
ECO positions at NOAA available October - December 2001
DEADLINE: rolling, apply asap
START DATES: rolling
**must be a US citizen and within 3 years of enrollment in
/graduation from a college/university certificate or undergraduate/graduate
degree program)**
# 1 - OCEAN EXPLORATION PLANNING ASSOCIATE
Silver Spring, MD
$29000, $300 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring commuting
area.
Ocean Exploration - The National Ocean Service has been actively
engaged in ocean exploration efforts for the past several years, primarily
related to planning and executing the Sustainable Seas Expeditions (SSE) in
the Nation's system of National Marine Sanctuaries. Conducting these types
of comprehensive expeditions, utilizing manned and unmanned submersibles and
ship board instruments, involves acquiring best available bathymetry and
other data sets relative to the areas to be explored, and organizing these
data for planning, as well as conducting operations. Other activities
include organizing and managing the data collected during the missions
(video and still imagery, oceanographic data, samples, etc.), as well using
the information to prepare post-expedition products such as summary and
technical reports, maps, and visual presentations. These efforts also
include developing background materials on the targets to be explored for
posting on the NOAA Ocean Exploration Web site, which provides the public
with information on the areas, as well as the expeditions themselves. The
National Ocean Service has recently expanded these activities from SSE to
include expeditions with other partners such as the Harbor Branch
Oceanographic Institute, and is preparing for a major expedition from Baja
California to the Bering Sea in 2002.
The acquisition and organization of data and information to
properly prepare for operations is critical to the success of the missions.
Data is often in different formats, from hard copy charts and reports to the
latest in digital GIS information. The intern will work as part of a data
management team that will collect, organize, and synthesize this
information, preparing products that will be used by scientists to plan
their missions. The intern and this team will also prepare products that
can be used by the scientists during the missions, assist with the
collection and organization of data during the missions, and will use the
data to prepare summary products. The data management team is responsible
for helping the National Ocean Service and its partners continue efforts to
prepare detailed habitat characterizations of the National Marine
Sanctuaries, other marine protected areas, as well as areas of unique or
endangered habitat that currently have no or little protection. These
missions are designed to lead to better management of the areas NOAA
currently has jurisdiction over, as well as to help with efforts to protect
and conserve critical ecosystems and habitats.
Working with the data management team, the intern will use a
variety of software applications to process data and information from a
variety of sources. The intern will use GIS and image analysis software to
prepare detailed digital charts of areas to be explored, as well as charts
depicting the track of submersibles and equipment used during the missions
in conjunction with the data collected. The intern will help modify an
existing database that provides scientists with summary information on past
efforts, and will use the database during mission to keep an accurate record
of all observations and operations.
Working with the data management team will provide the
intern with a comprehensive experience in managing data and information
relative to exploration efforts, as well as the application of those data
for developing much needed products. Specifically, the intern will be
trained to prepare for ocean exploration and research projects, to provide
scientists support during the missions, and to use data and information for
developing products that can be used to better manage marine protected
areas.
Minimum qualifications for the internship (major, courses,
degree)-
Bachelors degree, courses in remote sensing techniques and
marine sciences, experience in GIS and database development, experience in
operating personal computers.
Desired background - Skills in ArcView GIS, Visual Basic
programming, and FileMaker Pro database development are desired.
The intern will be required to travel on occasion to support
planning meetings and work sessions, and may spend time at sea (typically no
more than 7-10 days at a time) to support operations during missions.
# 2 - WEB GIS SPECIALIST
Silver Spring, MD
$29000, $275 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring
commuting area.
The Special Projects Office (SPO) of the National Ocean
Service (NOS), provides Communication, Assessment, and Planning support for
clients both within and outside of NOS. Two of the projects which this
Internship will support are the NOS MapFinder Service and the NOS Spatial
Synergy Project. The NOS MapFinder Service [http://mapfinder.nos.noaa.gov]
is a portal for the delivery of digital data generated by various components
within NOS. Among these data are scanned images of tide coordinated aerial
photographs , raster maps, and digital data sets (vectors, points and
Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). The NOS Spatial Synergy Project is an
attempt to unify and streamline NOS operations and spatial data sets through
rethinking of data flow and operations and implementing new technologies
such as Open GIS Web Mapping. An important aspect of this effort are the
exchange of data sets within NOS from operational producers to operational
users and the generation of common data repositories and archives
The delivery of digital data set to users is part art and
part science. The techniques and procedures used are changing as we better
understand client needs and as delivery technologies evolve. Among these
techniques are WEB focused navigation schemes and presentations as well as
quality control necessary to maximize the utility of the delivered data.
The selected intern will be directly involved with the operation of the NOS
MapFinder service and its expansion to include direct Map serving of
selected data sets. The internship will focus on upgrading the service to
an object oriented schema using ESRI's ARCims and incorporating Open GIS
WebMaping technology. Additionally, the intern will be involved in
supporting and developing other Web Mapping services for NOS.
This project involves learning and experimenting with the
Webmaping technologies being developed by the Open GIS Consortium and
assistance with the design and implementation of changes to the NOS
Mapfinder service. The intern will assist with experiments on Open GIS
Webmap serving which are precursors to changes in the operational NOS
MapFinder service. The Intern will participate in the design and
implementation of new features and technologies into the MapFinder and other
mapping services as well as maintenance of these services which includes
geo-referencing of data sets, conversion into standard formats and quality
control of data sets and their inventories.
The selected intern will be trained in the use and details
Open GIS standards, data portal operations, and quality control procedures
and operations for selected data sets.
The intern would learn about data they operate on, computer
technology used in geographic information systems and Map serving. The
participation of the intern in these interactions will provide experience on
the issues facing the environmental community, and help establish a network
of professional connections that will be useful throughout their career.
Minimum qualifications for the internship - BA/BS degree and
experience in operating a personal computer.
Desired background of the Intern and special skills required
-Course work should include geography or related earth sciences. Computer
courses directly related to Geographic Information Systems, Data Base
Management systems (Oracle), Visual Basic programming, and html page
generation are highly desired.
# 3 - MARINE PROTECTED AREA PLANNING ASSOCIATE
Silver Spring, MD
$26,000, $275 relocation expenses are available for selected interns
outside of the Silver Spring Commuting area.
The National Ocean Service is revising management plans and
approaches for its marine protected areas and its coastal zone management
responsibilities. NOS's Special Projects Office (SPO) is supporting the
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management in this effort. SPO has
significant experience with the process of developing and revising protected
areas management plans as well as extensive knowledge of the issues and
condition of the areas in question. Plan revisions take from 12 - 24 months
and usually require several site visits. These plans form the basis for the
management approach for the site for the next five years. These plans
describe the "Who, What, When, How, and Why?" of the actions necessary to
attain the goals and objectives of the site.
The intern will help SPO staff fulfill the role of expert
planners and process designers for three National Marine Sanctuaries off the
coast of California (Monterey Bay, Gulf of the Farallones, and Cordell bank)
and for the coastal zone management programs for five states (California,
Mississippi, Delaware, New Jersey, and Wisconsin).
Working with experienced geographers/environmental planners,
the intern will use software to design and produce materials to aid in the
process of planning and problem solving for a variety of coastal issues. The
intern will help design, produce tools for, attend and/or facilitate, and
summarize internal and multi-agency work sessions. The intern will support
other activities within NOS, such as providing summary reports on Special
Projects Office activities, financial status, and future plans. The intern
will input information into project tracking software and maintain the same.
All of these duties will provide important experience to the intern and
important resources to the NOS resource protection effort.
The selected intern will be trained in the methods of
strategic and tactical planning, and workshop design and facilitation. The
intern will learn about environmental issues facing coastal areas of the
U.S. and how managers are dealing with them. The intern will learn how about
the management of a complex project, including planning, tracking, and
completing numerous individual tasks. The intern will learn how to
coordinate activities with professional colleagues to reach a common goal.
The intern will learn the importance of being a self-starter and a problem
solver. By participating in this project, the intern will develop valuable
skills that can be applied to environmental conservation, management, and
protection activities.
Minimum qualifications for the internship (major, courses,
degree-BA/BS degree and experience in operating personal computers.
Desired background of the Intern and special skills (e.g.
diving certification, ArcInfo, etc.) required. -Course work should include
geography, marine biology, or related earth sciences. Computer courses
directly related to Geographic Information Systems and graphic design and
familiarity with Macintosh computers are pluses.
Intern should be willing to travel for short periods of time
(one day to one week) to coastal areas of the U.S. where NOS has management
responsibilities. The duty station will be within the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration's campus at Silver Spring, Maryland.
# 4 - Performance Measurement Development Associate
Silver Spring, MD
$29,000, $300 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring commuting
area
Improving Performance Measurement for National Ocean Service (NOS)
Programs
The Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 seeks to shift
the focus of government decision making and accountability away from a
preoccupation with the activities that are undertaken - such as grants
dispensed or inspections made - to a focus on the results of those
activities, such as real gains in employability, safety, responsiveness, or
program quality. Under the Act, agencies are to develop multiyear strategic
plans, annual performance plans, and annual performance reports, a specific
approaches to measure progress toward their stated goals.
NOAA and the National Ocean Service have worked hard to meet the
requirements of the GPRA, and have been successful, but recognize that they
can to do a better job. There is acknowledgment within NOS that the current
measures of performance, and the mechanism for collecting and reporting
these measures, are not meeting either of the two key objectives of
performance reporting - conveying a clear and compelling message about
NOAA's progress in protecting and conserving coastal habitats; and being
used to improve the internal management of programs. There is also a growing
realization that a dedicated team of individuals are needed to provide the
critical mass of capacity to significantly improve how NOS goes about
measuring environmental results produced by its activities. This intern
position will be an integral part of this new Performance Measurement
Development Team, and provide a variety of support capabilities to the team.
The overriding objectives of this project are to improve the ability
of NOS to report on the environmental outcomes generated by its activities
and the efficiency of program management. The team will develop a detailed
workplan to accomplish these objectives, which will include specific
activities assigned to the intern, along with products and a timetable. The
intern will be about to gauge his or her progress toward meeting the overall
objectives by the degree to which they are able to complete assignments and
produce products of high quality within the agreed to schedule.
The intern will work with a diverse group of professionals
comprising the Performance Measurement Development Team. The team's work
will focus on three areas - analysis of existing measures, design of
improved measures, development of efficient data acquisition and reporting
systems, and periodic production of a State of the Coast report, outlining
the condition and status of critical coastal resources. The intern, working
as part of the Team, will first help to evaluate the current set of
performance measurement statements used by Program Offices. If it is
determined the statements primarily measure outputs (activities) rather that
environmental outcomes (the consequences of activities), the intern will
assist the team and colleagues from the Program Office in designing improved
performance measures. Once the design is complete, the intern and team will
focus on building an improved data collection and reporting system. Once
these components are in place, the intern will help other team members
design and draft an initial State of the Coast web site and report. All of
these duties will provide important experience to the intern and an
important resources product for NOS.
The selected intern will be trained in the theory and practice of
performance measurement and the collection and presentation of environmental
data to track progress toward NOS program objectives. The intern will be
exposed to both policy issues related to selecting appropriate performance
measures to gauge program progress, and technical issues related to
determining the best processes to use to collect, analyze, and present this
information. He or she will gain experience with project planning,
facilitation and workshop design, data acquisition and analysis (using a
variety of data base software), innovative data visualization and
presentation techniques (including GIS mapping), and report and web
authoring. The intern will learn about the management of a complex project,
including planning, tracking, and completing numerous individual tasks. He
or she will also learn how to coordinate activities with professional
colleagues to reach a common goal. The intern will learn the importance of
being a self-starter and a problem solver. By participating in this project,
the intern will develop valuable skills that can be applied to environmental
conservation, management, and protection activities.
Minimum qualifications for the internship (major, courses, degree)-
Bachelors degree and experience in operating personal computers and standard
word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Desired background -Course work should include coastal management,
marine environmental studies, and data management and analysis. completion
of graduate level courses desired. Knowledge of and experience with
geographic information systems, environmental indicator development and
presentation, and web site development are valuable. Strong analysis,
writing and communication skills are highly desirable.
Some travel within the US may be required.
# 5 - REMOTE SENSING ASSOCIATE FOR HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOM PROJECT
Silver Spring, MD
$35,000, $300 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring
commuting area
The Remote Sensing Team in the Center for Coastal Monitoring and Assessment
(CCMA) is developing methods for detecting and monitoring harmful algal
blooms (HABs) using satellite imagery with other data sets. The Team has
developed a bulletin to aid state and federal agencies around the Gulf of
Mexico in responding to blooms for public safety and environmental impact.
The Team is researching new methods for processing and analysis of the
satellite imagery for bloom monitoring. The effort incorporates ocean color
satellite data with other data sets. The result will be new capabilities
in detection of blooms and in characterizing the chlorophyll in the
environment.
The project involves both a response component and a research component. In
the response component, when a bloom is occurring, CCMA regularly screens
and requests imagery, and obtains field data from monitoring agencies. In
addition, research draws on the available data and an existing time series
of satellite imagery for developing and testing the bloom detection
algorithms. The intern will assist in these components, thereby
participating in application of a research problem.
The intern will screen ocean color imagery for usability, assist in
development of bloom detection models, and development of a reference
climatology of blooms. The intern will also assist in comparisons of field
data with the satellite imagery.
The intern will be trained in the use of PCI image processing software;
learn methods for processing, analyzing, and interpreting extensive
satellite ocean color image data sets (particularly from SeaWiFS); and learn
methods for comparing satellite and field data. The intern will gain an
understanding of harmful algal blooms, a serious problem along the US
coasts. The intern will have the opportunity to be involved with aiding in
the monitoring of the problem as well as the research required to improve
detection of the blooms.
Qualifications - Masters degree minimum, in oceanography, engineering,
geography or other physical science. Baccalaureate will be considered only
with demonstrated experience in projects in image processing and
programming.
Desired background -Programming experience in a major language (including
IDL, C, Fortran), and experience with either satellite imagery or GIS.
# 6 - CORAL REEF MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION ASSOCIATE
Silver Spring, MD
$32,000, $300 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring commuting
area
The Coastal Programs Division of the National Ocean Service (NOS), provides
financial, technical and policy support to State and Territorial programs to
manage coastal resources under the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972, as amended.
An important part of this effort includes initiatives being undertaken to
protect coral reef ecosystems under auspices of the U.S. Coral Reef Task
Force, the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, and Congressional funding
for a wide range of coral reef conservation activities.
The CPD's roles in implementing NOAA's Coral Reef program include: acting as
the principle liaison between NOAA and State and Territorial coastal zone
management and other marine resource agencies on coral issues; implementing
a grants program to support these local efforts; planning and implementing a
number of CPD coral reef technical assistance and other projects; and
assisting in the development of NOS and NOAA coral reef management
strategies, plans, and reports which track the progress in achieving NOAA's
coral management goals.
Working with CPD state and territorial program specialists and Pacific and
Carribean CZM programs, the intern will: help in writing and implementing
new coral grant guidelines required by the Coral Reef Conservation Act of
2000; assist in the day-to-day management of CPD's coral reef management
grants to these jurisdictions; assist in the management of CPD's own coral
reef protection projects concerning vessel groundings and Marine protected
areas; and help plan, write, and edit various CPD and NOS coral reef
management strategies and reports. The work plan will include opportunities
to attend Coral Reef Task Force meetings and travel to coral reef project
areas.
The intern will be exposed to a full range of national and local coral reef
management issues including mapping and remote sensing, monitoring, marine
protected areas, and program evaluation. The intern will learn how these
issues are addressed at the National policy level, through the US Coral Reef
Task Force; at the agency level within NOAA and other federal agencies; and
at the local level through state and territorial coastal resource management
programs. The intern's participation in these interactions will provide
experience on the comprehensive set of issues facing the coral reef and
coastal management communities, as well as help to establish a network of
professional connections that will be useful throughout their career.
Minimum qualifications -Masters degree in environmental management or the
natural and environmental sciences.
Desired background -course work should include natural resource management,
geography or related earth sciences, with a preference for coral reef
ecology and management topics. Computer courses and experience directly
related to geographic information systems (GIS) and PowerPoint are desired.
# 7 - OSSTEP Program Associate
Norfolk, VA
$26,000, $300 relocation for interns outside of the Silver Spring commuting
area
The National Ocean Service (NOS) Center for Operational Oceanographic
Products and Services (CO-OPS) collects and distributes observations and
predictions of water levels, currents, and meteorological data to ensure
safe, efficient and environmentally sound use of the Nation's coastal
waters. CO-OPS manages the Ocean Systems Test & Evaluation Program (OSTEP)
to facilitate the transition of new sensors and technologies to an
operational setting.
Atmospheric Visibility Sensor Project: OSTEP has deployed four visibility
sensors at the National Weather Service (NWS) test facility in Sterling
Virginia. Reference data will be provided by the NWS for comparison to the
four sensors to be tested. Additional tests will be conducted in a maritime
setting to determine service intervals and reveal failures caused by a
marine environment.
Air Gap Sensor Project: A sensor is required to measure the clearance under
a bridge in real time. OSTEP has procured a microwave range finder and
plans to test the device on a railroad bridge in Norfolk. Testing must
include sensor operation in temperature extremes, rain, high waves, ice,
etc.
Conductivity/Temperature Sensor Project: Water Conductivity and Temperature
(CT) observations are required in real time to compute water density, used
to determine ship loading. CO-OPS has installed CT sensors at several
locations, but has suspended data dissemination due to concerns about
bio-fouling and real-time quality control. New CT sensors, antifoulants,
and deployment methods are being tested.
These three projects are representative of the testing, evaluation, and
implementation of new sensors conducted by the OSTEP. The Intern will
assist with these and others tests to determine the feasibility of a
particular sensor/systems in an operational configuration. Training will
include working with time-series analysis and graphics presentation
programs.
The Intern will assist in the installation of sensors and data gathering
efforts, draft metadata describing the testing procedures, construct flat
files of sensor and reference data sets for analysis, and plot results.
Training in the operation and data processing of a variety of
instruments. Hands on experience in the collection of oceanographic and
meteorological data. Access to a variety of sensor test facilities operated
by other agencies.
Minimum requirements - A bachelor's degree in oceanography, earth sciences,
computer or electronics science, or mathematics, Desired background -
Oceanographic field experience and analysis of time series data. Strong
computer background, including programming (C+, Matlab, or similar).
Familiarity with electronics a plus.
Special conditions/requirements (overtime, sea duty, travel, etc.)
[Funds to cover any additional costs incurred by these conditions must be
included in the obligation]
Local field work involves the installation and recovery of sensors on piers
and bridges, some accessible only by boat. Average mechanical abilities,
physical strength and dexterity are desired.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 14:23:53 -0400
From: Reah Janise Kauffman <rjkauffman@EARTH-POLICY.ORG>
Subject: Earth Policy Institute - ECO-ECONOMY book
NEWS FROM EARTH POLICY INSTITUTE.
ORDER NOW!
ECO-ECONOMY: BUILDING AN ECONOMY FOR THE EARTH by Lester R. Brown
- a new book with a new vision of a new economy,
one that is in harmony with the earth.
In 1543 Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the view that the
Sun revolved around the earth, arguing instead that the earth revolved
around the Sun. His alternative model led to a revolution in thinking, to a
new worldview.
Today we need a similar shift in our worldview. The issue is whether the
environment is part of the economy or the economy is part of the
environment.
Economists typically see the environment as a subset of the economy. This
has helped create an economy that is out of sync with the earth's ecosystem.
Ecologists, on the other hand, see the economy as a subset of the
environment. The environment can exist without the economy, but the economy
cannot exist without the environment.
ECO-ECONOMY agrees with the ecologists.
ECO-ECONOMY has three goals.
(1) to demonstrate that sustaining economic progress in the decades ahead
depends on restructuring the global economy
(2) to provide a vision of what an environmentally sustainable economy--an
eco-economy--would look like
(3) to supply a roadmap of how to get from here to there
ORDER NOW and we will ship your copy to you during the first week in
November when it is released. You can order through the secure server on our
website
http://www.earth-policy.org/Books/index.htm
We are also happy to accept your order by phone or fax.
Phone: (202) 496-9290
Fax: (202) 496-9325
You may preview the book by reading a pdf of Chapter 1, "The Economy and the
Earth": http://www.earth-policy.org/Books/index.htm
If you forward this email to your friends, they too can learn about building
an eco-economy.
This news list is maintained by Earth Policy Institute. Postings to this li
t
include Earth Policy Alerts, Eco-Economy Updates, and news releases. The E
rth
Policy Institute, founded by Lester R. Brown, is a nonprofit research
organization focused on providing a vision of an environmentally sustainabl
economyË-an eco-economy.
To remove yourself from this mailing list, send an email to
<imailsrv@earth-policy.org>
In the subject line, type
Unsubscribe news
To contact Earth Policy directly, send an email to
<epi@earth-policy.org>
website: www.earth-policy.org
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 13:29:26 -0500
From: Brian Wilsey <bwilsey@IASTATE.EDU>
Subject: Assistantships in plant diversity research
M.S. and Ph.D. assistantships available
Graduate research and teaching assistantships available in the Ecology and
Evolutionary Biology and Botany graduate programs at Iowa State University.
Many research opportunities are available including prairie restoration,
effects of bison on community and ecosystem processes, and effects of plant
diversity on ecosystem processes. Participating departments are well equipp
d
with equipment and research supplies, and the University is within an hour s
drive from the largest prairie restoration project in the country.
If you are interested, please send a CV with the names and addresses of thre
references to:
Brian Wilsey
Department of Botany
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011
phone: (515)294-0232
fax: (515)294-1337
_____________________
Brian J. Wilsey
353 Bessey Hall
Department of Botany and
Interdepartmental Program in
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011
phone: (515)294-0232
fax: (515)294-1337
http://www.public.iastate.edu/~bwilsey/homepage.htm
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 15:12:38 -0500
From: Dave McNeely <dlmcneely@LUNET.EDU>
Subject: Re: Citation
I don't have the reference, but many reports over the years have
addressed this issue. Stephen Jay Gould has written about it in his
_Natural History_ columns more than once. My peeve concerning this
matter is that almost every student I ever have thinks that a hypothesis
is a guess. But the issues are much more substantial than that.
Joe Poston wrote:
>I've spent a few days trying to track down a paper that I read awhile ba
k,
with
> no luck.
>I'm hoping that someone on this list will be familiar with the paper, an
can
> send me the
>citation.
>
>The paper appeared in American Biology Teacher (or a similar journal). I
> focused on the
>scientific method, and in particular how the description of the scientif
c
> method that
>is portrayed in textbooks is often inaccurate. As an example to illustra
e the
> author's
>message, he or she described Tim Caro's studies of antipredator behavior
in
> gazelles.
>
>Sincerely,
>
>Joe Poston
>
>********************
>Joe Poston, Ph.D.
>Assistant Professor
>Department of Biology
>Catawba College
>2300 West Innes Street
>Salisbury, NC 28144-2488
>
>Phone: (704) 637-4443
>Fax: (704) 637-4204
>jpposton@catawba.edu
>http://www.catawba.edu/dept/biology/poston.html
>********************
>
--
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
Web page http://www.lunet.edu/mcneely
"Are we there yet?"
Source unknown
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 14:32:36 -0700
From: "David S. White" <David.White@MURRAYSTATE.EDU>
Subject: Post-Doctoral Position, Reservoir Research
We have the following post-doctoral postion that will be available in
January through the Center for Reservoir Research.
Research Associate (Post-Doc), Center for Reservoir Research, Murray State
University. Full time, non-tenure track position to begin January 2002.
The position will be for a period of two years. Qualifications: Ph.D.
required in one of the following areas: Environmental or Ecological
Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Geosciences/Hydrology or Environmental
Modeling. Responsibilities: Provide assistance to COE scientists in
conducting basic and applied research on reservoirs and their attendant
ecosystems (primarily Kentucky Lake and its watersheds). Application
Deadline Date: December 1, 2001. To Apply: Send a letter of
application, resume and names, addresses and phone numbers of three
references to: Dr. David White, Center for Reservoir Research, Murray
State University, 561 Emma Drive, Murray, KY 42071. Women and minorities
are encouraged to apply. Murray State University is an equal education and
employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA employer.
-------------------------------------------------------
David S. White
Professor, Biological Sciences, Murray State University
Director, Hancock Biological Station
Coordinator, Center for Reservoir Research
Address:
Hancock Biological Station
561 Emma Drive
Murray, KY 42071, USA
Phone 270/474-2272
FAX: 270/474-0120
Email: david.white@murraystate.edu
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/bio/davidswhite.htm
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/hbs/hbs.htm
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/crr/crr-wtr.htm
------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 17:52:34 -0400
From: Lynn Adler <lsadler@VT.EDU>
Subject: principal components analysis
Hello all -
I am hoping someone can give me some advice about principal components
analysis. I would like to know when it is appropriate to compute the
principal components from the correlation matrix compared to the covariance
matrix. I am having a hard time sorting this out based on different
interpretations in different statistics texts, and the results are very
different with each method.
My example: I have done a quantitative genetics experiment in which I
crossed known maternal and paternal parents from three different sites, and
have analysed alkaloids in the resulting offspring. There are approximately
20 different alkaloids (all measured as percent dry weight) and I would
like to use PCA to reduce this down to a few manageable variables. Would a
correlation or covariance matrix be more appropriate, and why?
Thank you in advance for your time and advice.
Sincerely,
Lynn Adler
****************************************
Lynn S. Adler
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Biology (0406), 2119 Derring Hall
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA 24061
phone: 540-231-8882
fax: 540-231-9307
email: lsadler@vt.edu
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 22:51:05 +0000
From: Melissa Songer <crcgis@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Advanced Conservation GIS Course
The Smithsonian Conservation and Research Center is offering the following
advanced Conservation GIS and Remote Sensing Course this fall.
Advanced GIS & Remote Sensing:
Measuring Landcover Change and its Impact on Endangered Species
October 22 - 26, 2001
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
This one-week advanced GIS and remote sensing course provides
conservationists with an opportunity to learn how GIS and remote sensing can
be used to assess the conservation status of endangered species. Each
participant will be provided with their own desktop computer for all lab
exercises. During the hands-on exercises participants will use the Internet,
ArcView, ArcView Spatial Analyst, ERDAS Imagine, Fragstats, and other
spatial analysis programs. Instructors will lead participants step-by-step
through the process of:
* conduct a regional conservation assessment using GIS to determine critical
conservation areas for an endangered species
* acquiring multi-date satellite imagery to quantify land cover change and
to map the extent of the remaining habitat
* using landscape analysis to determine optimal landscape configurations for
conserving the endangered species.
TRAINING LOCATION
The course will be taught at the National Zoological Park's Conservation and
Research Center in Front Royal, Virginia. The Center is located at the
north entrance of the Shenandoah Park approximately 70 miles west of
Washington, D.C. Pick-up from Washington Dulles Airport can be arranged.
Participants will be housed at the CRC and meals provided at the CRC's
Conference Center. All computer labs will be taught at the Center's Spatial
Analysis Lab. The lab is equipped with various PC's, a GPS Base station,
two digitizers, and color plotters and printers.
Visit the following web address for more details and registration
information.
http://www.si.edu/crc/tp/tp.htm
Contact:
Lisa Kern
crcgis@hotmail.com
1500 Remount Road
Front Royal, VA 22630
540-635-6535 (GIS Lab)
540-635-6506 (FAX)
_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 19:57:51 -0400
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: conservation news
***********************************************************************
LIFE RETURNS TO JORDAN'S PARCHED OASIS
AMMAN, Jordan, October 8, 2001 (ENS) - The overexploited Azraq oasis in
Jordan's eastern desert is enjoying an ecological recovery. "Many of the
birds for which the oasis was renowned are coming back," said Chris
Johnson, director of development of the Royal Society for the
Conservation
of Nature (RSCN), a non-governmental organization devoted to the
protection
of nature in Jordan.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/oct2001/2001L-10-08-01.html
***********************************************************************
TROPICAL FORESTS FALLING ACROSS AFRICA, SOUTH AMERICA
ROME, Italy, October 8, 2001 (ENS) - Tropical countries are losing their
forests at a very high rate, the United Nations Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO) warned in a new issue of the "State of the World's
Forests 2001," published Wednesday.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/oct2001/2001L-10-08-04.html
***********************************************************************
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 17:29:47 -0800
From: Christa Mulder <ffcpm2@UAF.EDU>
Subject: job ad, wildlife ecologist
Please post the following on the ECOLOG listserv :
Tenure track position: wildlife ecology, University of Alaska
Fairbanks. Closing date 26 October 2001. See ad at
http://mercury.bio.uaf.edu/iab/wildlife_ecologist.html
Thanks!
Christa
*****************************************************
Institute of Arctic Biology and
Department of Biology and Wildlife
University of Alaska Fairbanks,
Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
TEL: +1 907.474.7152
Fax: +1 907.474.6967
email: ffcpm2@uaf.edu
http://mercury.bio.uaf.edu/~christa_mulder/cv.htm
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Oct 2001 21:20:19 -0600
From: "David W. Inouye" <di5@umail.umd.edu>
Subject: The World Biodiversity Database
3. World Biodiversity Database
http://www.eti.uva.nl/Database/WBD.html
The World Biodiversity Database, provided by the Expert Center for Taxonomic
Identification (ETI), seeks to "document all presently known species (about
1.7 million) and to make this important biological information worldwide
accessible." This continually growing database "provides taxonomic
information, species names, synonyms, descriptions, illustrations and
literature references when available" on 200,000 taxa. The searchable
database can be explored using an expandable tree of the five taxonomic
kingdoms or by typing in a common or scientific name. Both educators and
students should find this site easy to navigate, informative, and useful.
[JB]
>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2001.
http://scout.cs.wisc.edu/
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 12 Oct 2001 to 13 Oct 2001
To: Recipients of ECOLOG-L digests <ECOLOG-L@UMDD.UMD.EDU>
Message-ID: <GL6IYN01.GJL@mail.iisc.ernet.in>
Status: R
There are 3 messages totalling 161 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. job: evolutionary, population or developmental biologist, Univ. Souther
Maine
2. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
3. principal components analysis
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Oct 2001 10:24:25 -0400
From: Chris Maher <cmaher@USM.MAINE.EDU>
Subject: job: evolutionary, population or developmental biologist,
Univ. Southern Maine
EVOLUTIONARY, POPULATION, OR DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGIST
The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Southern
Maine invites applications for an evolutionary, population, or
developmental biologist who uses molecular techniques. This is a
tenure-track, academic year appointment starting Sept. 2002,
contingent upon funding. Rank is open. This will be a joint
appointment with the Biosciences Research Institute of Southern Maine
and the Department of Biological Sciences. The successful candidate
is expected to teach courses at the undergraduate and graduate
(master's) level and maintain an active, extramurally-funded research
program. USM is expanding research with targeted State funding that
includes a new science research wing. Letters of application, stating
teaching and research interests, CV, and contact information for 3
references, should be sent to David Champlin, Chair, Search
Committee, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern
Maine, P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300. Review of applications
will begin 30 November 2001.
The University of Southern Maine seeks applicants who are committed
to teaching diverse populations in an open and accepting classroom.
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Oct 2001 16:00:27 -0400
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Energy Engineer(s)
Company: Harding ESE
Location: Gainsville and Orlando, Florida
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4626
Title: Bookkeeper/Office Administrator
Company: Earth Day Canada
Location: Toronto, ON, Canada
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4625
Title: Environmental Compliance Technician(s)
Company: Chugach Alaska Corporation
Location: , Alaska
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4624
Title: Tenure-track Position, Environmental Studies
Company: University of Redlands
Location: Redlands, California
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4623
Title: Environmental Scientist
Company: Greenhorne & O'Mara, Inc.
Location: Marietta, Georgia
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4622
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Oct 2001 14:09:24 -0500
From: Dave Chalcraft <chalcraf@LIFE.UIUC.EDU>
Subject: Re: principal components analysis
Lynn,
Some good references on this topic can be found in:
"Multivariate statistics for Wildlife and Ecology Research" by McGarigal,
K. S. Cushman and S. Stafford. 2000
Noy-Meir, I. D. Walker, and W.T. Williams. 1975. Data transformations in
ecological ordination. II. On the meaning of data
standardization. Journal of Ecology 63:779-800.
From these sources i understand that the correlation matrix is the better
matrix to use (especially if the variables used in the analysis are scaled
differently or have different units of measurement) than the covariance
matrix. Supposedly, a PCA on the correlation matrix places equal
importance on all variables while a PCA on the covariance matrix places a
greater emphasis on variables with larger variances. From the description
of your data it sounds like the correlation matrix is better to use since
they are all measured as a percentage.
Hope this helps,
Dave
At 10/12/2001 04:52 PM, you wrote:
>Hello all -
>
>I am hoping someone can give me some advice about principal components
>analysis. I would like to know when it is appropriate to compute the
>principal components from the correlation matrix compared to the covaria
ce
>matrix. I am having a hard time sorting this out based on different
>interpretations in different statistics texts, and the results are very
>different with each method.
>
>My example: I have done a quantitative genetics experiment in which I
>crossed known maternal and paternal parents from three different sites,
nd
>have analysed alkaloids in the resulting offspring. There are approximat
ly
>20 different alkaloids (all measured as percent dry weight) and I would
>like to use PCA to reduce this down to a few manageable variables. Would
a
>correlation or covariance matrix be more appropriate, and why?
>
>Thank you in advance for your time and advice.
>
>Sincerely,
>
>Lynn Adler
>****************************************
>
>Lynn S. Adler
>Assistant Professor
>Dept. of Biology (0406), 2119 Derring Hall
>Virginia Tech
>Blacksburg, VA 24061
>
>phone: 540-231-8882
>fax: 540-231-9307
>email: lsadler@vt.edu
David R. Chalcraft
Dept. of Ecology, Ethology and Evolution
515 Morrill Hall
505 S. Goodwin Ave.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Urbana, IL
61801
Office number: (217) 244-5052
chalcraf@life.uiuc.edu
------------------------------
End of ECOLOG-L Digest - 12 Oct 2001 to 13 Oct 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