Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 2 Dec 2001 to 3 Dec 2001 (#2001-22)
There are 9 messages totalling 678 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. Ph.D. position, Univ. of Antwerp, climate change and tundra ecosystems
2. experimental error tolerance in field work (4)
3. urgent help for the mosquito Culex quinquejasciatus
4. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
5. Position Advertisement
6. Free Events Add to National Conference on Science, Policy and the
Environment
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 07:55:55 -0700
From: David Inouye <di5@umail.umd.edu>
Subject: Ph.D. position, Univ. of Antwerp, climate change and tundra ecosyst
ms
Ph.D. position at the University of Antwerp, Belgium.
National Science Foundation Project: Effect of climate extremes on
tundra-ecosystems.
Candidate: Degree in Biology or Engineering. Experience or interest in
plant ecology, plant ecophysiology, ecosystem ecology, biophysics, or
ecological mathematics are an asset.
Tasks:Research on influence of climate change on arctic vegetation,
participation in campagnes in West Greenland, publication in scientific
journals.
Focus: experimental studies OR mathematical analysis of vegetation images,
depending on qualifications
Duration: 12 months, possibility of 4-year Ph.D. project upon positive
evaluation
Start:from 1 January 2002 onwards
Conditions: maximum 1 year of previous university employment; minimum
degree 'distinction' (Belgian system) or equivalent
Send C.V. to: Prof. dr. Ivan Nijs
Department of Biology
University of Antwerp (UIA)
Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk
tel. 03/8202257, fax 03/8202271, inijs@uia.ua.ac.be <mailto:inijs@uia.ua.
c.be>
See also 'research themes' at http://bio-www.uia.ac.be/bio/pleco/
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 09:09:25 -0500
From: "Scheiner, Samuel M." <sscheine@NSF.GOV>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
Nancy is confusing statistical significance, biological importance, and
repeatability. Repeatability will effect statistical significance, but that
is what large sample sizes are for. The actual magnitude of the "real"
effect vs measurement error does not matter, that just means that the signal
to noise ratio is a lot higher than usual. In a similar fashion, biological
importance is independent of both. A very small effect could be very
important. (The opposite is harder to imagine, although someone out there
might have an example.)
Sam
Samuel M. Scheiner
Div. Envir. Biol. (Rm 635) National Science Foundation
4201 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22230
Tel: 703-292-7175 Fax: 703-292-9065
Email: sscheine@nsf.gov
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nancylou Conklin [SMTP:nconklin@FAS.HARVARD.EDU]
> Sent: Sunday, December 02, 2001 9:44 PM
> To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> Subject: experimental error tolerance in field work
>
> Greetings,
> I have a recollection of reading somewhere that a reasonable
> variation for field work was either 15% or 30%. In other words, for
> example, if you are working in a nutrition lab and running samples in
> duplicate, you want your results for the duplicates to be within 2% of
> each other, though if the procedure is very complicated, 5% can be
> acceptable. If they are too different, you have to run the analysis ov
r
> again until you get duplicates that are within ~2% of each other. This
is
> different than running replicates because duplicates are run side by si
e,
> where replicates are run in subsequent batches. Duplicates are for
> quality control. W ith replicates you might be testing, for example,
> different conditions using the same samples. And each replication woul
> have its own duplication. Thus, if the replicate differences are great
r
> than your predetermined acceptable variation between duplicates, you ca
> at least say that their differences are not due to experimental error (
ou
> still have to test to see whether they are statistically different).
> However, if your replicates are less than 2-5% different from each othe
,
> then you can't call them significantly different, even if statistics
> claims that they are, because they are still within experimental error.
>
> If anyone has a different understanding of how this works, plea
e
> tell me.
>
> Meanwhile, in field work, say you are studying the same animal
> species living in two different habitats and you want to say whether th
> habitats are significantly different from each other. How high is the
> bar you have to get over to get out of the realm of experimental error
> and into the realm of possible real differences? As I stated above. I
> have this vague recollection of 15 to 30%, which is a huge difference.
> I'm hoping someone can narrow this down and give me a reference for it.
>
> Thanks
>
> Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 617-495-9070
> Anthropology Department fax: 617-496-8041
> Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.harvard.ed
> Harvard University
> Cambridge, MA 02138
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 11:02:01 +0000
From: Okan Kulkoyluoglu <okulko@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: urgent help for the mosquito Culex quinquejasciatus
Dear all
I need urgent help for one of our ongoing Ph.D. work on the
mosquito species Culex quinquejasciatus.. During last laboratory work,
unexpected accident happened and one of my Ph.D. students lost all the
specimens of Culex quinquejasciatus from the laboratory.
I appreciate for any information where (company, university, or person name)
we can provide eggs or larvae of this species..
Many thanks for your time and interest, and we are looking forward to hear
from you soon..
Okan..//
===================================
== OKAN KULKOYLUOGLU, Ph.D.
== Department of Biology
== Abant Izzet Baysal University
== Gölköy 14280 Bolu-TÜRKÝYE
== e-mail: okank@ibu.edu.tr
okulko@hotmail.com
== phone:+ 90-374-253-4511 (ext.2635)
fax :+ 90-374-253-4642
====================================
_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 12:50:45 -0500
From: Nancylou Conklin <nconklin@FAS.HARVARD.EDU>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
Actually, I'm not confused about these three components, I'm trying to
quantify their respective borders. As a lab person who collaborates with
field people, I am often asked how "accurate" my lab results are. I
explain how animal nutritionists normally monitor the quality of their lab
work. It has, finally, occurred to me that I would like to know how field
ecologists monitor the quality their results. And I'm not wondering about
how a single project self-evaluates. I'm wondering whether, as with lab
work, someone has done a specific project or projects to establish a
rule-of-thumb margin of error. The lab work rule-of-thumb was established
so long ago that it is lost in the mists of time. It is something you
learn when you take lab classes and, for nutritionists at least, is sort
of borrowed from the field of chemistry.
-Nancy
On Mon, 3 Dec 2001, Scheiner, Samuel M. wrote:
> Nancy is confusing statistical significance, biological importance, and
> repeatability. Repeatability will effect statistical significance, but
hat
> is what large sample sizes are for. The actual magnitude of the "real"
> effect vs measurement error does not matter, that just means that the s
gnal
> to noise ratio is a lot higher than usual. In a similar fashion, biolog
cal
> importance is independent of both. A very small effect could be very
> important. (The opposite is harder to imagine, although someone out the
e
> might have an example.)
>
> Sam
>
> Samuel M. Scheiner
> Div. Envir. Biol. (Rm 635) National Science Foundation
> 4201 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22230
> Tel: 703-292-7175 Fax: 703-292-9065
> Email: sscheine@nsf.gov
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Nancylou Conklin [SMTP:nconklin@FAS.HARVARD.EDU]
> > Sent: Sunday, December 02, 2001 9:44 PM
> > To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> > Subject: experimental error tolerance in field work
> >
> > Greetings,
> > I have a recollection of reading somewhere that a reasonab
e
> > variation for field work was either 15% or 30%. In other words, f
r
> > example, if you are working in a nutrition lab and running samples
in
> > duplicate, you want your results for the duplicates to be within 2
of
> > each other, though if the procedure is very complicated, 5% can be
> > acceptable. If they are too different, you have to run the analys
s over
> > again until you get duplicates that are within ~2% of each other.
This is
> > different than running replicates because duplicates are run side
y side,
> > where replicates are run in subsequent batches. Duplicates are fo
> > quality control. W ith replicates you might be testing, for examp
e,
> > different conditions using the same samples. And each replication
would
> > have its own duplication. Thus, if the replicate differences are
reater
> > than your predetermined acceptable variation between duplicates, y
u can
> > at least say that their differences are not due to experimental er
or (you
> > still have to test to see whether they are statistically different
.
> > However, if your replicates are less than 2-5% different from each
other,
> > then you can't call them significantly different, even if statisti
s
> > claims that they are, because they are still within experimental e
ror.
> >
> > If anyone has a different understanding of how this works,
please
> > tell me.
> >
> > Meanwhile, in field work, say you are studying the same an
mal
> > species living in two different habitats and you want to say wheth
r the
> > habitats are significantly different from each other. How high is
the
> > bar you have to get over to get out of the realm of experimental e
ror
> > and into the realm of possible real differences? As I stated abov
. I
> > have this vague recollection of 15 to 30%, which is a huge differe
ce.
> > I'm hoping someone can narrow this down and give me a reference fo
it.
> >
> > Thanks
> >
> > Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 617-495
9070
> > Anthropology Department fax: 617-496-8041
> > Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.harva
d.edu
> > Harvard University
> > Cambridge, MA 02138
>
Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 617-495-9070
Anthropology Department fax: 617-496-8041
Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.harvard.edu
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA 02138
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 13:20:27 -0500
From: "Scheiner, Samuel M." <sscheine@NSF.GOV>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
What we have here is two different perspectives, call them Baconian and
Fisherian. In the former, typical of lab work, we compare a treatment with a
control where we try as hard as possible to minimize all other possible
sources of error. In that case, we care deeply about the accuracy of our
measurement "instrument". In the latter, typical of field work, we admit
that there is whole bunches of stuff that we can never control. Instead we
rely on random assignment to ensure that all of those other factors are
randomly distributed across treatments and let inferential statistics handle
the mess. Here we do not care as much about "instrument" accuracy because it
is just one more random effect.
Sam
Samuel M. Scheiner
Div. Envir. Biol. (Rm 635) National Science Foundation
4201 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22230
Tel: 703-292-7175 Fax: 703-292-9065
Email: sscheine@nsf.gov
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nancylou Conklin [SMTP:nconklin@fas.harvard.edu]
> Sent: Monday, December 03, 2001 12:51 PM
> To: Scheiner, Samuel M.
> Cc: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
>
> Actually, I'm not confused about these three components, I'm trying to
> quantify their respective borders. As a lab person who collaborates wi
h
> field people, I am often asked how "accurate" my lab results are. I
> explain how animal nutritionists normally monitor the quality of their
ab
> work. It has, finally, occurred to me that I would like to know how fi
ld
> ecologists monitor the quality their results. And I'm not wondering ab
ut
> how a single project self-evaluates. I'm wondering whether, as with la
> work, someone has done a specific project or projects to establish a
> rule-of-thumb margin of error. The lab work rule-of-thumb was establis
ed
> so long ago that it is lost in the mists of time. It is something you
> learn when you take lab classes and, for nutritionists at least, is sor
> of borrowed from the field of chemistry.
>
> -Nancy
>
> On Mon, 3 Dec 2001, Scheiner, Samuel M. wrote:
>
> > Nancy is confusing statistical significance, biological importance
and
> > repeatability. Repeatability will effect statistical significance,
but
> that
> > is what large sample sizes are for. The actual magnitude of the "r
al"
> > effect vs measurement error does not matter, that just means that
he
> signal
> > to noise ratio is a lot higher than usual. In a similar fashion,
> biological
> > importance is independent of both. A very small effect could be ve
y
> > important. (The opposite is harder to imagine, although someone ou
> there
> > might have an example.)
> >
> > Sam
> >
> > Samuel M. Scheiner
> > Div. Envir. Biol. (Rm 635) National Science Foundation
> > 4201 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22230
> > Tel: 703-292-7175 Fax: 703-292-9065
> > Email: sscheine@nsf.gov
> >
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From: Nancylou Conklin [SMTP:nconklin@FAS.HARVARD.EDU]
> > > Sent: Sunday, December 02, 2001 9:44 PM
> > > To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> > > Subject: experimental error tolerance in field work
> > >
> > > Greetings,
> > > I have a recollection of reading somewhere that a rea
onable
> > > variation for field work was either 15% or 30%. In other wor
s, for
> > > example, if you are working in a nutrition lab and running sa
ples in
> > > duplicate, you want your results for the duplicates to be wit
in 2% of
> > > each other, though if the procedure is very complicated, 5% c
n be
> > > acceptable. If they are too different, you have to run the a
alysis
> over
> > > again until you get duplicates that are within ~2% of each ot
er.
> This is
> > > different than running replicates because duplicates are run
ide by
> side,
> > > where replicates are run in subsequent batches. Duplicates a
e for
> > > quality control. W ith replicates you might be testing, for
xample,
> > > different conditions using the same samples. And each replic
tion
> would
> > > have its own duplication. Thus, if the replicate differences
are
> greater
> > > than your predetermined acceptable variation between duplicat
s, you
> can
> > > at least say that their differences are not due to experiment
l error
> (you
> > > still have to test to see whether they are statistically diff
rent).
> > > However, if your replicates are less than 2-5% different from
each
> other,
> > > then you can't call them significantly different, even if sta
istics
> > > claims that they are, because they are still within experimen
al
> error.
> > >
> > > If anyone has a different understanding of how this w
rks,
> please
> > > tell me.
> > >
> > > Meanwhile, in field work, say you are studying the sa
e animal
> > > species living in two different habitats and you want to say
hether
> the
> > > habitats are significantly different from each other. How hi
h is the
> > > bar you have to get over to get out of the realm of experimen
al error
> > > and into the realm of possible real differences? As I stated
above. I
> > > have this vague recollection of 15 to 30%, which is a huge di
ference.
> > > I'm hoping someone can narrow this down and give me a referen
e for
> it.
> > >
> > > Thanks
> > >
> > > Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone:
> 617-495-9070
> > > Anthropology Department fax: 617-496
8041
> > > Peabody Museum
> nconklin@fas.harvard.edu
> > > Harvard University
> > > Cambridge, MA 02138
> >
>
> Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 617-495-9070
> Anthropology Department fax: 617-496-8041
> Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.harvard.edu
> Harvard University
> Cambridge, MA 02138
>
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 14:38:27 -0400
From: Sean Mitchell <smitchel@STFX.CA>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
Nancy:
here are some thoughts though others out there may have different views. It
seems
to me that what you are calling duplicates and repliactes, ecologists would
all
treatments (ie your replicates) and repliactes (your duplicates). If that i
the
case then there is no (that I am aware of) "rule of thumb" regarding differe
ces
as it depends entirely upon the variation between replicates and treatmants.
In
ecological field sampling (as opposed to laboratiory experiments), the varia
ion
is tremendously large and so large sample sizes are generally required in or
er to
detect differences; depending upon the intensity of sampling and the inheren
variance in the system a very large difference (i.e., gretaher than the 30%
hat
you are asking about) may be required before a statistical difference is
detected. The perspective is interesting in that you consider 30% a huge
difference, but an ecologist would consider that reasonable. Your 2-5% only
exists in our dreams. Hope this is of some help.
Sean Mitchell
Nancylou Conklin wrote:
> Actually, I'm not confused about these three components, I'm trying to
> quantify their respective borders. As a lab person who collaborates wi
h
> field people, I am often asked how "accurate" my lab results are. I
> explain how animal nutritionists normally monitor the quality of their
ab
> work. It has, finally, occurred to me that I would like to know how fi
ld
> ecologists monitor the quality their results. And I'm not wondering ab
ut
> how a single project self-evaluates. I'm wondering whether, as with la
> work, someone has done a specific project or projects to establish a
> rule-of-thumb margin of error. The lab work rule-of-thumb was establis
ed
> so long ago that it is lost in the mists of time. It is something you
> learn when you take lab classes and, for nutritionists at least, is sor
> of borrowed from the field of chemistry.
>
> -Nancy
>
> On Mon, 3 Dec 2001, Scheiner, Samuel M. wrote:
>
> > Nancy is confusing statistical significance, biological importance
and
> > repeatability. Repeatability will effect statistical significance,
but that
> > is what large sample sizes are for. The actual magnitude of the "r
al"
> > effect vs measurement error does not matter, that just means that
he signal
> > to noise ratio is a lot higher than usual. In a similar fashion, b
ological
> > importance is independent of both. A very small effect could be ve
y
> > important. (The opposite is harder to imagine, although someone ou
there
> > might have an example.)
> >
> > Sam
> >
> > Samuel M. Scheiner
> > Div. Envir. Biol. (Rm 635) National Science Foundation
> > 4201 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22230
> > Tel: 703-292-7175 Fax: 703-292-9065
> > Email: sscheine@nsf.gov
> >
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
> > > From: Nancylou Conklin [SMTP:nconklin@FAS.HARVARD.EDU]
> > > Sent: Sunday, December 02, 2001 9:44 PM
> > > To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> > > Subject: experimental error tolerance in field work
> > >
> > > Greetings,
> > > I have a recollection of reading somewhere that a rea
onable
> > > variation for field work was either 15% or 30%. In other wor
s, for
> > > example, if you are working in a nutrition lab and running sa
ples in
> > > duplicate, you want your results for the duplicates to be wit
in 2% of
> > > each other, though if the procedure is very complicated, 5% c
n be
> > > acceptable. If they are too different, you have to run the a
alysis over
> > > again until you get duplicates that are within ~2% of each ot
er. This is
> > > different than running replicates because duplicates are run
ide by side,
> > > where replicates are run in subsequent batches. Duplicates a
e for
> > > quality control. W ith replicates you might be testing, for
xample,
> > > different conditions using the same samples. And each replic
tion would
> > > have its own duplication. Thus, if the replicate differences
are greater
> > > than your predetermined acceptable variation between duplicat
s, you can
> > > at least say that their differences are not due to experiment
l error (you
> > > still have to test to see whether they are statistically diff
rent).
> > > However, if your replicates are less than 2-5% different from
each other,
> > > then you can't call them significantly different, even if sta
istics
> > > claims that they are, because they are still within experimen
al error.
> > >
> > > If anyone has a different understanding of how this w
rks, please
> > > tell me.
> > >
> > > Meanwhile, in field work, say you are studying the sa
e animal
> > > species living in two different habitats and you want to say
hether the
> > > habitats are significantly different from each other. How hi
h is the
> > > bar you have to get over to get out of the realm of experimen
al error
> > > and into the realm of possible real differences? As I stated
above. I
> > > have this vague recollection of 15 to 30%, which is a huge di
ference.
> > > I'm hoping someone can narrow this down and give me a referen
e for it.
> > >
> > > Thanks
> > >
> > > Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 61
-495-9070
> > > Anthropology Department fax: 617-496
8041
> > > Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.
arvard.edu
> > > Harvard University
> > > Cambridge, MA 02138
> >
>
> Nancy Lou Conklin-Brittain telephone: 617-495-9070
> Anthropology Department fax: 617-496-8041
> Peabody Museum nconklin@fas.harvard.ed
> Harvard University
> Cambridge, MA 02138
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 16:00:59 -0500
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Marketing Assistant
Company: Green Century Capital Management
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4881
Title: Shareholder Activism Staff
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For more information click below:
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Title: Environmental Consultants
Company: The SI Group
Location: the Pacific Northwest
For more information click below:
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Title: PhD Fellowships, Economics and Environmental Scien
Company: University of California Santa Barbara
Location: Santa Barbara, California
For more information click below:
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Title: Research Assistantships, Environmental Economics
Company: Michigan State University
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For more information click below:
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------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 16:17:15 -0900
From: "David R. Harrington, Ph.D." <dharrington@SJ-ALASKA.EDU>
Subject: Position Advertisement
Assistant or Associate Professor of Environmental Science: Terrestrial
ecologist with expertise in conservation biology. Ph.D. preferred; ABD
considered. Experience with field-based teaching and research desirable.
GIS application ability desirable. Inquiries or applications (CV,
references) to: Tammi Rhyner-Zimmerman, Executive Assistant, Sheldon
Jackson College, 801 Lincoln Street, Sitka, Alaska 99835; (907) 747-2526;
FAX (907) 747-2594; e-mail trhyner@sj-alaska.edu. Review of applications
begins January 20, 2002.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
dharrington@sj-alaska.edu
David R. Harrington, Ph.D.
Dean of Academic Affairs
Director of the Division of Degree Programs
Sheldon Jackson College
801 Lincoln Street
Sitka, Alaska 99835 USA
(907) 747-5222 FAX (907)747-2594
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 3 Dec 2001 16:43:56 -0500
From: Kevin Hutton <khutton@NCSEONLINE.ORG>
Subject: Free Events Add to National Conference on Science,
Policy and the Environment
FREE EVENTS ADD TO NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SCIENCE, POLICY AND THE
ENVIRONMENT:
Activities start on December 5.
[ Online version is here: http://www.cnie.org/Updates/114.htm ]
For those unfortunate enough not be able to attend the Second National
Conference on Science, Policy and the Environment in Washington, DC on
December 6 and 7, there are FREE opportunities to participate in
conference-related activities. These events are of course open to
conference participants, too.
On Wednesday December 5 from 12:00 noon ^Ö 1:00 p.m. EST Brazilian
Governor Jaime Lerner, energy expert Deborah Bleviss, and National
Council for Science and the Environment Senior Scientist David
Blockstein will participate in the Voice of America global call-in
program "Talk to America". Governor Lerner will present the story of
Curitiba, one of the world^Òs most sustainable cities, during the first
plenary session of the Conference on December 6. The show will be
webcast at www.voanews.com/talk - check this web site also for
information on how to observe the show via radio and television. The
email is talk@voanews.com People can call into the show (collect) at
202-619-3111. If you cannot call collect, call for one minute, leave
your country code, city code and phone number and you will be called
back.
Also on Wednesday, December 5 from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m., the US Department
of Agriculture will hold an Open Briefing and Listening Session on
Sustainable Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Issues for the World
Summit on Sustainable Development. The session will be held in the
Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel, Rooms 10 and 11, at 999 9th St. NW,
Washington D.C. The session will provide a special opportunity to
comment on progress on implementing Agenda 21, particularly Land
Resources and Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development (SARD) and
to propose new implementation initiatives on sustainable agriculture,
land, and rural development issues. For background see the Commission on
Sustainable Development (CSD-8) Decisions on Sustainable Agriculture and
Rural Development and Integrated Approach to the Planning and Management
of Land Resources at www.un.org/documents/ecosoc/docs/2000/e2000-
29.htm#Decision 8/4. For more info on this session, see
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=1399 or
contact Adela Backiel, USDA, Director, Sustainable Development
(adela.backiel@usda.gov) or Jennie O'Connor, USDA-Forest Service
(jmoconnor@fs.fed.us).
On Friday December 7, admission for the Sustainability Science Products
& Projects Exhibition will be free between 9 a.m. and 12 noon and
between 2 and 4 p.m. (access will be restricted to registered conference
participants between 12 noon and 2 p.m.). Recent literature, new
innovative machinery, sustainable ideas, and much much more will be on
display throughout the day. Exhibitors include: Abt Associates, American
Association for the Advancement of Science, American Forests, Earthome
Productions, ESRI, Environmental Literacy Council, FoxFire Associates
LLC ^Ö Terrabuilt, Island Press, National Academy Press, NOAA's National
Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Population Action International, US
EPA^Òs ETV Program, and World Steward and Little White Salmon
Biodiversity Reserve.
For more information, see
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=999
The conference web site
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/ will continue to be
updated after the conference, including speaker presentations,
recommendations of conference breakout sessions, and information on
ordering audio and videotapes of conference proceedings.
Advance registration for the conference has now exceeded 450, but
additional space remains. Please join us on December 6 and 7 to hear:
Maurice Strong, special advisor to the UN Secretary General
Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, Chair of the House Science Committee
Donald Kennedy, editor of Science and past-President of Stanford
University
Distinguished Harvard University biologist Dr. Edward O. Wilson
Governor Jaime Lerner of the Brazilian state of Parana
Plenary case studies of Portland, Oregon and the Working for Water
Program in the Republic of South Africa.
Participate in one of 19 breakout sessions, which will develop
recommendations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD),
the UN-sponsored conference that will take place in Johannesburg, South
Africa in September 2002. These recommendations will be reviewed by a
distinguished panel including former congressman John Porter, Maurice
Strong, the leading people in the Bush Administration's preparation for
WSSD, and representatives of the United Nations and citizens groups. See
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=949#LIST
for a list of breakout sessions and to register online for a session.
If you have not yet registered and are planning to attend the
conference, please avoid the lines and register today at
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/registration.cfm
Discounted rooms are still available at the Renaissance Washington DC
Hotel. Go to
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/travel.cfm
More information can be found at the conference web site:
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/
--
Kevin Hutton, Webmaster
National Council for Science and the Environment
1725 K St. NW Suite 212 Washington, DC 20006
http://www.cnie.org
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 27 Nov 2001 to 28 Nov 2001 (#2001-17)
There are 21 messages totalling 793 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. Graduate Assistantship at MTU
2. darwin
3. Southern Forest Resource Draft Assessment Report--Public Comment Welcom
4. Travel Grants for Women Scientists
5. Graduate Research Opportunity - Fish Ecology
6. Job Posting
7. hemispherical photography
8. Tribolium source
9. Graduate research opportunity in fire science and modelling
10. Plant/Environmental Science Position
11. laser
12. Software or Databases on Bird Spp
13. Job announcement
14. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
15. Position Announcement- Parasitologist
16. FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS
17. FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS - Great Gray Owls
18. TWO FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS - Sierra Nevada
19. Four Faculty Positions at Univ. of Alabama
20. nominations, Corporate Award - recycling
21. job postings
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 08:54:22 -0500
From: Linda Nagel <lmnagel@MTU.EDU>
Subject: Graduate Assistantship at MTU
Ph.D. Research Assistantship
Michigan Technological University
A Ph.D. research assistantship is available for a student interested in
forest ecology, tree ecophysiology, and/or silviculture at the School of
Forestry and Wood Products, Michigan Technological University. The
research will investigate production dynamics and carbon storage potential
of mixed species stands in the northern Great Lakes. The position will
begin Fall 2002, or sooner. Desirable qualifications include a B.S. or
M.S. in forestry, biological sciences, or a closely related
discipline. The position includes tuition, fees, and a competitive stipend
based on qualifications. Applicants should send a letter of interest,
resume, transcripts, GRE scores, and names, phone numbers, and e-mail
addresses of 3 references to: Dr. Linda Nagel, School of Forestry and Wood
Products, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931. For
additional information, contact lmnagel@mtu.edu or call
906-487-2812. Michigan Tech is located near some of the most spectacular
natural areas in the eastern United States that boasts unparalleled outdoor
recreational opportunities (http://forestry.mtu.edu).
************************************
Linda M. Nagel
Assistant Professor
School of Forestry and Wood Products
Michigan Technological University
1400 Townsend Drive
Houghton, Michigan 49931-1295
Phone: (906) 487-2812
FAX: (906) 487-2915
lmnagel@mtu.edu
http://forestry.mtu.edu
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 08:12:44 -0600
From: Dave McNeely <dlmcneely@LUNET.EDU>
Subject: Re: darwin
Even a superficial reading of Darwin's work makes it clear that he made
voluminous observations. Some of these, if we do not notice his
extensive "theorizing," which he evidently cautioned against for junior
scientists, would seem on the face of them to be of the "counting the
gravel" sort that he also cautioned against. But he did theorize. Do
you mean that the statements quoted suggest that he may have gotten the
purpose of data collection mixed up, so that it sounds as if he was
searching for underpinnings of his ideas, rather than searching for data
that would test his ideas? You evidently do not think he meant that,
but seem to be cautioning others against such an interpretation. For
anyone who might be tempted to think that, I suggest two things: (1)
notice the caution with which he approached publishing his theories that
the historical record clearly contains, and (2) read Darwin more
extensively.
Does this mean that I think scientists are incapable of believing in a
theory too much, and so biasing their work? Now really [wry smile ;- }].
agkistrodon@MINDSPRING.COM wrote:
>>Two years later, Darwin wrote on a similar subject to John Scott, an
>>Edinburgh botantist:
>>
>>"Let theory guide your observations, but till your reputation is wel
>>established be sparing
>>in publishing theory. It makes persons doubt your observations." (1
63
>>letter to John Scott)
>>
>
>
>Now for my question. Did Chuck Darwin mean that observations should be
ade
>"for some theory" in the sense of supporting it or in the sense of testi
g
>it and finding it consistent with the observations? It seems to me that
he
>would have been a better philosopher than a trivial reading would imply.
>
>Jim Sutton
>
>US EPA
>
--
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: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 10:23:13 -0500
From: Nadine Lymn <NADINE@ESA.ORG>
Subject: Southern Forest Resource Draft Assessment Report--Public Comment
Welcome
The Ecological Society of America's Public Affairs Office encourages those w
th interest and expertise in this area to consider providing feedback on the
recently released Southern Forest Resource Assessment Report.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------
Southern Forest Resource Draft Assessment Report--Public Comment Welcome
On November 23, 2001, four federal agencies, alongside southern state forest
y agencies, released the findings of the Southern Forest Resources Assessmen
, a two-year study launched in April 1999. The Assessment was initiated by t
e U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency, the Tennessee Valley
Authority, and the Fish and Wildlife Service as a result of questions raised
by natural resource professionals and the public regarding the status and po
sible future of forests in the South. These questions addressed rapid urban
zation, increasing demand for southern timber, changing processing technolog
es such as chip mills, forest pests, and changing air quality and their effe
ts on a broad range of forest resources. The draft Assessment Report is the
culmination of more than 2 years of effort by more than 25 scientists and an
lysts from the four federal agencies listed above as well as southern univer
ities.
Although the draft Assessment has been peer-reviewed, additional input is en
ouraged to ensure that the Assessment questions have been addressed as thoro
ghly and accurately as possible. The draft Assessment is available online at
www.srs.fs.fed.us\sustain\
Comments should address the content of the Assessment, specifically the comp
eteness and accuracy of the work. Comments should clearly indicate the chap
er(s) to which they apply. Please specify sections and page numbers if poss
ble. Additional sources of information should include citation information
o it can be readily located. Copies of reference articles would be very hel
ful.
Comments are due by February 1, 2002. They should be addressed to:
Southern Forest Resource Assessment
USDA Forest Service
1720 Peachtree Rd. NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
Attn.: John Greis
Fax: Fax: (404) 347-2776
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 10:25:25 -0500
From: Nadine Lymn <NADINE@ESA.ORG>
Subject: Travel Grants for Women Scientists
Women's International Science Collaboration (WISC) Program 2001-2003
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Directorate f
r International Programs announces the Women's International Science Collabo
ation (WISC) Program for 2001-2003. Supported by the U.S. National Science F
undation (NSF), this program aims to increase the participation of women in
nternational scientific research by helping establish new research partnersh
ps with colleagues in Central/Eastern Europe, Newly Independent States of th
former Soviet Union, Near East, Middle East, Pacific, Africa, the Americas,
and Asia.
Small grants ($4,000-5,000) will provide travel and living support for a U.S
scientist and, when appropriate, a co-PI to visit a partner country to deve
op a research program. Funds can also be used to support a second visit to t
e partner country or for a foreign partner to travel to the U.S.
Men and women scientists who have their Ph.D. or equivalent research experie
ce are eligible to apply. Applicants who have received their doctoral degree
within the past six years will receive special consideration, as will scien
ists applying to work with colleagues in less frequently represented countri
s and regions. With the exception of applications involving the Americas, ap
lications from male co-PIs must be accompanied by an application from a fema
e co-PI as part of a U.S. research team (please contact M. Ratchford, see be
ow, regarding special guidelines for the Americas). Male and female graduate
students (Ph.D. candidates) are also eligible to pply, if they will be condu
ting research in an established Ph.D. program in the U.S. and will be travel
ng with their Ph.D. advisor and will serve as co-PI on future proposals. (Ma
e graduate students will need a female co-PI.) Applicants must be citizens o
permanent residents.
Only fields funded by the National Science Foundation and interdisciplinary
esearch cutting across these fields are eligible. For further information, p
ease visit the NSF website (http://www.nsf.gov), or contact one of the AAAS
dministrators listed below.
Two competitions will be held, with application deadlines of January 15, 200
and July 15, 2002. Approximately 40 awards will be made in each competition
For further application information and region-specific guidelines, please v
sit http://www.aaas.org/international/wiscnew.shtml
or contact the appropriate AAAS administrator:
-Central and Eastern Europe, Newly Independent States (NIS) of the former So
iet Union: Karen Grill, kgrill@aaas.org.
-East Asia and Pacific: Suteera Nagavajara, snagavaj@aaas.org, (202) 326-649
.
-Africa, Middle East, Near East, and South Asia: Alan Bornbusch, abornbus@aa
s.org, (202) 326-6651.
-Americas and Caribbean: Marina Ratchford, mratchfo@aaas.org, (202) 326-6490
Or, please write to (AAAS contact), WISC Travel Grant, American Association
or the Advancement of Science, Directorate for International Programs, 1200
ew York Avenue, NW,Washington, D.C., 20005.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 09:55:04 -0600
From: Matthew Doeringsfeld <matthew_doeringsfeld@UND.NODAK.EDU>
Subject: Graduate Research Opportunity - Fish Ecology
Graduate Assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D)
Dept. of Biology, Univeristy of North Dakota
Support is available for either an M.S. or Ph.D. student to conduct work on
the ecology of clonal fish in successional landscapes. This on-going
research project is currently funded by the Ecology Program at the National
Science Foundation. The general goal of the project is to examine the
influence of landscape succession on the dispersal and ecological
interactions of clonal and sexual fish. The research is being conducted in
Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota. The graduate degree will be
obtained from the Department of Biology at the University of North Dakota
in Grand Forks. The University of North Dakota is the primary liberal arts
institution in the state with an enrollment of approximately 12,000
students. The Department of Biology has 18 full time faculty and
approximately 20 graduate students, with particular strength in the area of
evolutionary ecology and field biology. More details regarding the
graduate program in the Biology department can be found at our web site
http://www.und.edu/dept/biology/biology.html. Interested students should
contact Ike Schlosser by e-mail at isaac_schlosser@und.nodak.edu or by
regular mail at the Dept. of Biology, Box 9019 University Station, Grand
Forks, ND 58202. Women and minority students are particularly encouraged
to apply.
*********************************
Dr. Isaac J. Schlosser
Dept. of Biology, UND
Box 9019
Grand Forks, ND 58202
isaac_schlosser@und.nodak.edu
**********************************
Matthew R. Doeringsfeld
Dept. of Biology, UND
Box 9019 Starcher Hall
Grand Forks, ND 58202
Ph#: (701)777-3676
Fax: (701)777-2623
matthew_doeringsfeld@und.nodak.edu
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 11:03:23 -0500
From: Chuck Hopkinson <chopkins@MBL.EDU>
Subject: Job Posting
PostDoc: Wetland Geomorphology or Succession
The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory
(<http://ecosystems.mbl.edu>) has a postdoctoral scientist position
available to study the response of intertidal marshes to sea level rise and
watershed perturbations. We are interested in developing scale invariant
geomorphic indices of estuarine wetlands and channel networks that are
correlated with rates of wetland accretion or erosion. We want to determine
how to "scale up" from plot-level marker horizon and sediment elevation
table (SET) measures of marsh elevation change. Is there a relation between
the elevational stability of coastal wetlands and the geomorphic pattern or
fractal signature of wetland drainage networks? We seek an individual with a
background in image analysis, GIS, drainage network geomorphology, coastal
geology or wetland ecology. This position will involve interaction with
geographers, ecologists and biogeochemists at the University of South
Carolina, Mt. Holyoke College and Clark University.
Instructions: Send cover letter with position desired, curriculum vitae,
statement of research interests and names and addresses of references to:
Marine Biological Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 7 MBL Street, Woods
Hole, MA 02543 reference: [PDS-PIEWETL].
Deadline:The position will be filled as soon as a qualified person accepts
an offer.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 08:39:36 -0800
From: "Janisch, Jack" <JAJA461@ECY.WA.GOV>
Subject: hemispherical photography
we're considering purchase of a hemispherical camera to help document canopy
development over succession for low order forest streams. several camera and
software types are available so if anyone has a recommendation on what
options might be best suited to such a project i would be interested (please
respond off list). other comments, such as how such a camera might hold up
during transport to headwaters streams (which can be rugged) are also
welcome.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 09:53:20 -0800
From: Marion Preest <mpreest@JSD.CLAREMONT.EDU>
Subject: Tribolium source
I have an undergraduate student who is trying to locate a supply of flour
beetles (Tribolium madens) infected with the bacterium Wolbachia. She has
tried a number of sources without any luck.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you, Marion Preest
Marion Preest, Ph.D.
Joint Science Dept.
925 N. Mills Ave
The Claremont Colleges
Claremont, CA 91711
mpreest@jsd.claremont.edu
Phone 909-607-8014
FAX 909-621-8588
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 10:48:10 -0700
From: Steve Cumming <stevec@BERL.AB.CA>
Subject: Graduate research opportunity in fire science and modelling
Graduate Research Position in Fire Science and Modelling
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
A graduate research position is available to a motivated individual with an
interest in fire science and ecological modelling. The objective of this 2-3
year project is to quantify large-scale spatial variation in the occurrence
of wildfire within the boreal forests of western Canada. All wildfires are
started by lightning, but most lightning strikes don't result in a detected
fire, or "arrival". The processes of fire ignition and growth are influenced
by many factors, including the moisture content of surface fuels, which is
related to summer weather. It appears that interacting spatial variation in
summer weather and lightning frequency may be producing stable patterns in
fire arrivals over the study region: in other words, some areas are more
likely to burn than others. This bears on some important problems in applied
ecology relating to sustainable forestry and the design and management of
protected areas, such as Wood Buffalo National Park.
The main responsibilities of the position will be to develop predictive
statistical models of spatial variation in arrival frequency. This will
require analysis of extensive spatial datasets (e.g. daily weather,
lightning detections, and fire records) that will be provided by the
sponsoring agencies, including the Canadian Forest Service and Parks Canada.
The position is suited to graduate studies at the Masters or Doctoral level.
However, a Ph.D. student would be expected to contribute independently to
project development or application.
The project offers the opportunity to develop rare and valuable skills,
including a facility with large and complex assemblages of ecological and
environmental data, multivariate statistical analysis, spatial statistics
and ecological modelling.
We will consider candidates from a wide range of academic backgrounds,
including forestry, ecology, geography, the physical sciences, mathematics,
statistics and computing science. The essential qualifications include: an
interest in boreal ecosystems; strong quantitative skills; a willingness to
learn and apply new statistical and analytical methods as needed; the
ability to work independently; and a demonstrated facility with written
communications. Candidates must also qualify for graduate studies in the
Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta:
http://www.rr.ualberta.ca The project is funded, but preference will be
given to candidates qualified for or presently holding an NSRC or similar
scholarship. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. The
position may commence as early as January 01 2002.
For further information, contact Steve Cumming, Mike Flannigan, or Ross
Wein.
Dr. Steve Cumming
Boreal Ecosystems Research Ltd.
6915 106 St.
Edmonton, AB, Canada T6H 2W1
780-432-1589
mailto:stevec@berl.ab.ca
http://www.berl.ab.ca
Dr. Mike Flannigan
Canadian Forest Service
Northern Forestry Centre
5320 122 St.
Edmonton, AB, Canada T6H 3S5
780-435-7338
mailto:mflannig@nrcan.gc.ca
http://nofc.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/fire/frn/English/frames.htm
http://www.unites.uqam.ca/gref/flanna.htm
Dr. Ross Wein
Department of Renewable Resources
University of Alberta
Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2E3
780-492-2038
mailto:ross.wein@ualberta.ca
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 13:11:55 -0600
From: David Kesler <Kesler@RHODES.EDU>
Subject: Plant/Environmental Science Position
Plant/Environmental Science
The Department of Biology at Rhodes College (http://www.rhodes.edu)
seeks qualified applicants for an initial 3-year Assistant Professor
position to begin in August of 2002. Candidates must have a Ph.D., a
strong interest in teaching at the undergraduate level, and the ability
to maintain an active research program in which undergraduate students
can participate. Teaching responsibilities will include a field-based
plant course, evolution, and participation in the introductory biology
sequence. The successful candidate will also have an opportunity to
participate in the development of an interdisciplinary environmental
program and offer courses on current environmental issues. The
applicant's area of research should demonstrate a familiarity with
environmental policy, with preference given to persons whose research
involves plant systems.
Rhodes College is a highly selective, nationally ranked undergraduate
college of the liberal arts and sciences, whose location in metropolitan
Memphis provides the cultural and social amenities of a city of one
million residents. The College is historically affiliated with the
Presbyterian Church in the United States.
Applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae,
transcripts of graduate coursework, representative reprints, statements
of teaching philosophy and research goals, and three letters of
recommendation by January 31, 2002 to:
Dr. David Kesler, Chair of the Search Committee
Department of Biology
Rhodes College
Memphis, TN 38112
Rhodes welcomes applications for all of its faculty positions from all
persons and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color,
age, religion, disability, or national and ethnic origin.
--
David H. Kesler, Ph.D. "We need the tonic of wildness,
Associate Professor of Biology to wade sometimes in the
marshes."
Rhodes College --- Thoreau
2000 N. Parkway
Memphis, TN 38112
e-mail: kesler@rhodes.edu
web page: http://kesler.biology.rhodes.edu
phone: 901-843-3557
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 12:21:33 -0800
From: "Janisch, Jack" <JAJA461@ECY.WA.GOV>
Subject: laser
thanks to all who are responding with camera advice. i'll summarize key
point from this feedback and send it back to the list in a few days when all
who want to comment have had a chance.
sorry for failure to include this earlier but we are also considering
another expensive item- a laser range finder for measuring stream reach and
stream width. any comments (durability, brand preference, etc) are welcome
(please respond off-list).
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 15:10:00 -0500
From: "Christopher A. Lepczyk" <lepczykc@PILOT.MSU.EDU>
Subject: Software or Databases on Bird Spp
Hi,
I have been looking into software packages that contain species names
(e.g., Bird Brain) and natural history information for North American
birds, but have been unable to find either the best ones or exactly what I
am looking for. Specifically I am interested in either databases, software
pacakges, or websites that contain not just current A.O.U. species names,
but natural history information, such as body masses (similar to that of
the CRC Handbook of Avian Body Masses by Dunning), nesting
location/habitat, clutch size, number of clutches, method of foraging, etc.
(the information that is found in the Birder's Handbook by Erhlich et al.).
Please contact me directly if you have any recommendations on software
packages or existing databases. I appreciate your time and assistance.
Thanks,
Chris Lepczyk
Christopher A. Lepczyk
Department of Fisheries and Wildlife
Michigan State University
13 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI 48824-1222
lepczykc@msu.edu
517-353-5468
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 14:47:32 -0600
From: Mark Seamans <seama005@TC.UMN.EDU>
Subject: Job announcement
To whom it may concern,
Could you please post the following job announcement on the ECOLOG_L
Listserver.
Sincerely,
Mark Seamans
RESEARCH SPECIALIST/FELLOW, Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and
Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus. Position
Description: This will be a full-time (100%), professional/academic
position, working on a long-term study on the population ecology of
California spotted owls in the central Sierra Nevada. The starting date
will be January 2, 2002, or as soon after as possible. Responsibilities
include:coordinating project logistics, leading and coordinating field
crews from April to August, in addition to collecting data, maintaining
integrity of collected data, updating, summarizing and analyzing large data
sets with computers, facilitating payroll and project budget oversight,
assisting in developing project reports and peer-reviewed publication, and
maintaining liaison with project assistants at other field sites. Minimum
qualifications:Qualifications: B.S. in wildlife ecology/management or
related field for research specialist; M.S. for research fellow. Must be
physically fit, i.e., able to walk long distances in rough terrain, and be
willing to learn new skills. Desired qualifications: Strong field,
analytical, and organization skills. Salary: $25,000-$26,000 (depending
on qualifications); University benefits including life and health
insurance. Application Procedure: Send a letter of interest, curriculum
vitae, & the names, addresses and phone numbers of three references as
soon as possible to: Dr. R.J. Gutierrez, Dept. of Fisheries, Wildlife and
Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, 200 Hodson Hall, 1980
Folwell Ave., St. Paul, Minnesota, 55108 or e-mail to: gutie012@fw.umn.edu
The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons
shall have equal access to its programs, facilities and employment without
regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital
status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual
orientation.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 16:00:06 -0500
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Biodiversity Research Fellow
Company: Center for Philosophy of Law, University of Louvain
Location: , Belgium
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4864
Title: Program Director
Company: Greater Yellowstone Coalition
Location: Bozeman, Montana
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4863
Title: Crew Leader
Company: Department of Natural Resources - Minnesota Conservation Corps
Location: St. Croix State Park, Minnesota
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4862
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 17:41:32 -0500
From: Robert Pillsbury <bobpillsbury@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Position Announcement- Parasitologist
<html><div style='background-color:'><DIV>Please consider
osting this on Ecolog:</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Tenure-track assistant professor in Biology with specialty in Par
sitology beginning 1 September 2002. Ph.D. required; postdoctoral and
eaching experience desirable. Responsibilities: teach course in parasi
ology, share in teaching Biology of Animals and introductory biology; develo
research program in parasitology; pursue extramural funding; supervise M.S.
theses. Letter of application, statements of teaching philosophy and researc
interest, CV, reprints, 3 letters of recommendation and transcripts to: Cha
r, Department of Biology and Microbiology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh,
shkosh, WI 54901, by January 2002. At least one of the letters of reco
mendation should come from the institution with which the candidate is curre
tly affiliated. The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is an affirmative
ction/equal opportunity employer and values diversity. For additional
nformation contact Dr. Gregory Kleinheinz, Chair of the Search and Scre!
en Committee, at <A href="mailto:kleinhei@uwosh.edu">kleinhei@uwosh.ed
</A> or 920/424-1100.</DIV></div><br clear=all><h
>Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at <a href='http://go.msn.com/
ql/hmtag_itl_EN.asp'>http://explorer.msn.com</a><br></html>
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 16:18:19 -0800
From: Phil Nott <pnott@BIRDPOP.ORG>
Subject: FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS
Many FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS needed May 7 July 31 to survey birds by point=
=20
counts and assess vegetation in North Cascades National Park and Olympic=20
National Park in Washington state, and possibly additional sites in=20
California. Must be familiar with, or able to learn quickly, the songs and=
=20
calls of western montane landbirds. Seeking applicants in excellent=20
physical condition with a willingness to backpack to remote sites and camp=
=20
out most nights. Knowledge of western montane flora is a plus, as is a=20
personal vehicle. Shared housing and on-the-job mileage reimbursement=20
provided along with a per diem of $32 for food and general living expenses=
=20
(amounts to $800 per month). Send cover letter, r=E9sum=E9 and the names,=
=20
phone numbers and e-mail addresses of two references to BOB WILKERSON, The=
=20
Institute for Bird Populations, P.O. Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA=20
949561346 or email bwilkerson@birdpop.org.=20
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 16:21:01 -0800
From: Phil Nott <pnott@BIRDPOP.ORG>
Subject: FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS - Great Gray Owls
Two FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS needed approx. April 1 June 30 to survey Great=
=20
Gray Owls in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Previous=
=20
field experience required; experience surveying owls strongly=20
preferred. Position entails working at night, sometimes in harsh=20
weather, occasionally backpacking to remote sites, and camping out most=20
nights. Rugged personal vehicle is a strong plus. Great opportunity for=20
friends or couples, but solo applicants are also welcome. Shared housing=20
and onthejob mileage reimbursement provided along with a per diem of $20=20
for food and general living expenses (amounts to $500 per month).
Send cover letter, r=E9sum=E9 and the names, phone numbers and e-mail=
addresses=20
of two references to BOB WILKERSON, The Institute for Bird Populations,=20
P.O. Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA 949561346 or email=20
bwilkerson@birdpop.org.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 16:22:38 -0800
From: Phil Nott <pnott@BIRDPOP.ORG>
Subject: TWO FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS - Sierra Nevada
TWO FIELD BIOLOGIST INTERNS needed May 1 June 30 to survey birds by point=
=20
counts and assess vegetation in burned and unburned forest patches in the=20
Dome Land Wilderness Area of California=92s Sierra Nevada=20
mountains. Applicants should have strong birding skills and be familiar=20
with the songs and calls of western montane landbirds. Position requires=20
backpacking to remote sites and camping out most nights. Personal vehicle=
=20
is a plus. Great opportunity for friends or couples, but solo applicants=20
are also welcome. Shared housing (when not in the field) and on-the-job=20
mileage reimbursement provided along with a per diem of $32 for food and=20
general living expenses (amounts to $800 per month).
Send cover letter, r=E9sum=E9 and the names, phone numbers and e-mail=
addresses=20
of two references to BOB WILKERSON, The Institute for Bird Populations,=20
P.O. Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA 949561346 or email=20
bwilkerson@birdpop.org.=20
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 17:17:31 -0600
From: lgough <lgough@BAMA.UA.EDU>
Subject: Four Faculty Positions at Univ. of Alabama
Four Faculty Positions in Ecology and Systematics at the University of Alaba
a
The Department of Biological Sciences at The University of Alabama invites
applications for four faculty positions to begin August 16, 2002. The
Department's Aquatic Biology faculty has collective strengths in freshwater
ecosystem processes, ecology of freshwater flora, fauna, and microbes, as we
l
as in vascular plant, fish, invertebrate and microbial systematics. We are
seeking individuals interested in collaborating with departmental faculty an
with our growing interdisciplinary research groups, such as the Center for
Freshwater Studies and its NSF IGERT Ph.D. Program in Freshwater Sciences.
e
are particularly interested in attracting applicants whose research interest
complement our existing research strengths and programmatic themes linking
Freshwater Biodiversity and Ecosystem Studies. These positions are part of
competitive University Enhancement of the Aquatic Biology Graduate Program
that also includes seven new Ph. D. fellowships.
The four faculty positions are in the areas of:
1) The Bishop Professorship in Freshwater Biology, Associate Professor
2) Systematic Ichthyologist, Assistant Professor
3) Conservation Biology, Assistant Professor
4) Aquatic Vertebrate Ecology, Assistant Professor
Please see our departmental web site for further information regarding
qualifications, application procedures, and contact information at:
http://www.as.ua.edu/biology
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYE
.
-----------------------------------------
Laura Gough, Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0206
phone: 205-348-9034
fax: 205-348-1403
LGough@biology.as.ua.edu
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 17:05:47 -0700
From: Laura Foster Huenneke <lhuennek@NMSU.EDU>
Subject: nominations, Corporate Award - recycling
Ecological Society of America Corporate Award for Resource Recovery and
Recycling
The Ecological Society of America is seeking nominations for its
corporate award to be given in 2002 to a corporation, company, non-profit
entity, or program or individual associated with a company, for Resource
Recovery and Recycling. We are seeking examples of corporate entities
whose land resource management reflects a sound foundation in basic
ecological principles and science. The award is designed to encourage and
recognize the incorporation of ecological concepts and knowledge in
corporate planning and operations.
Nominations should be submitted by a member of the Ecological Society of
America, the professional organization representing North American
ecological scientists. (See the ESA web site, http://esa.sdsc.edu, for
more information on the Ecological Society.) Nominations should be
submitted to Dr. Laura Huenneke (contact information below) by December
20. A complete nomination should include:
name, address, phone number, email, and affiliation of ESA member making
the nomination;
name of the person, program or division, or company being nominated;
description of the recycling or resource recovery activity being recognized
by nomination;
name, address, phone number, email, and affiliation of an impartial
individual who could corroborate the nomination.
Nominees may be invited to provide additional documentation. Final
recommendations will be made by a committee of ESA members by March 2002;
the awardee will be contacted and a representative invited to receive the
award (a framed certificate) and make a presentation at the annual
Ecological Society meeting. In the year 2002, the annual ESA meeting will
take place in
Tucson, Arizona, in August.
To nominate a deserving corporation, program, or individual, or to seek
further information, please contact:
Dr. Laura Huenneke
Department of Biology
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM 88003
Telephone (505) 646-3933
Fax (505) 646-5665
Email LHuennek@nmsu.edu
**************************************
Laura Foster Huenneke
Professor and Department Chair
Dept. of Biology, MSC 3AF
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM 88003-8001
(505) 646-3611 (voice)
(505) 646-5665 (fax)
LHuennek@nmsu.edu
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 21:49:26 -0500
From: Kara Johnson <travellingfools@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: job postings
can you please put the job title or keywords in the subject line of job
postings when you post them? it makes it easier to go through the messages.
thanks!
kara johnson
_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 28 Nov 2001 to 29 Nov 2001 (#2001-18)
There are 10 messages totalling 639 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. darwin
2. Graduate Teaching/Research Fellowships in Mammalian Ecology, Fordham Un
v.
3. MS Assistantship available
4. Second National Conference on Science, Policy & the Environment: Decemb
r
6 & 7, Washington, D.C.
5. Freshwater Sciences Ph.D. Fellowships
6. Another biological crust question
7. Help Stop the Invasions!
8. Graduate student or possible Post-Doc opportunity
9. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
10. research associate announcement
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2001 22:36:43 -0800
From: Ashwani Vasishth <vasishth@USC.EDU>
Subject: Re: darwin
Three citations I found useful in my efforts to understand the rhetorical
context of Darwin's life and times are:
Campbell, John A. 1984. "A Rhetorical Interpretation of History,"
Rhetorica, v2n3 (Autumn 1984): p227-266.
Campbell, John A. 1986. "Scientific Revolution and the Grammar of
Culture: The Case of Darwin's Origin," Quarterly Journal of Speech, v72n4
(Nov. 1986): p351-376.
Campbell, John A. 1989. "The Invisible Rhetorician: Charles Darwin's
"Third Party" Strategy," Rhetorica v8n1 (Win. 1989): p55-85.
Ashwani
Vasishth vasishth@usc.edu (310) 576-7735
http://www-scf.usc.edu/~vasishth
--------------------------------------------------------
School of Policy, Planning and Development, RGL 108
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
http://www.usc.edu/dept/sppd/
--------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 08:26:53 -0700
From: David Inouye <di5@umail.umd.edu>
Subject: Graduate Teaching/Research Fellowships in Mammalian Ecology,
Fordham Univ.
Graduate Teaching/Research Fellowships in Mammalian Ecology.
Two combined teaching/research stipends are now available for
M.S. students to conduct thesis studies on the hibernation patterns
of free-ranging: a) ground squirrels in California, b) free-ranging
woodchucks in central-northern New York, and, c) chipmunks
throughout New York State. Students will have access to the
facilities of the Louis Calder Center - Biological Field Station for
their studies.
(http://www.fordham.edu/calder_center).
- Stipends range $17,000 to $20,000 per year, (including summer
support), plus full tuition remission.
- Applications for the Fall 2002 semester are now being accepted.
Contact Dr. Craig L. Frank for the application procedure at the
following address: frank@fordham.edu
Craig L. Frank, Ph. D.
The Louis Calder Center
Fordham University
53 Whippoorwill Road
Armonk, NY 10504, U.S.A.
telephone: 914-273-3078, ext. 14www.fordham.edu/calder_center
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 09:00:15 -0600
From: "John D. Krenz" <john.krenz@MNSU.EDU>
Subject: MS Assistantship available
Note: second posting but with a change in deadline.
MS Assistantship in Aquatic Macroinvertebrates
Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Graduate Assistant to estimate the abundance and diversity of aquatic
macroinvertebrates in a large prairie wetland. This two-year
study, funded by the Minnesota Waterfowl Association, will estimate
abundance and compare current and previous levels at Swan Lake. While
afield alone, the GA must be able to launch and operate a boat, locate
traps using a GPS device, and collect samples. The 12-month $11,000
stipend will consist of a summer Research Assistantship and an
academic-year Teaching Assistantship. Full tuition waiver provided.
Start date is 14 May, 2002, or negotiable. Submit on paper by 18
January, 2001, curriculum vitae, letter of application, unofficial
transcripts, GRE scores (if available), and names and telephone numbers
of two references to: Dr. John D. Krenz, Dept. of Biological Sciences,
Minnesota State University, Mankato MN 56001. Information:
john.krenz@mnsu.edu, (507) 389-5735, www.mankato.msus.edu.
AA/EOE.
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 09:13:32 -0500
From: Kevin Hutton <khutton@NCSEONLINE.ORG>
Subject: Second National Conference on Science,
Policy & the Environment: December 6 & 7, Washington, D.C.
Second National Conference on Science, Policy & the Environment:
December 6 and 7, Washington, D.C.
REGISTER NOW!
[Online version is here: http://www.cnie.org/updates/113.htm ]
Join the expected 500 scientists and decisionmakers from academia,
government, business, and citizens' organizations at the 2nd National
Conference on Science, Policy and Environment, with the theme of
Sustainable Communities: Science and Solutions on December 6 and 7 at
the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Renaissance
Washington DC hotel.
This will be the largest, most diverse group of scientists and
decisionmakers brought together to date for the purpose of preparing
recommendations for the World Summit for Sustainable Development (WSSD)
and for exploring the use of science for sustainable communities.
The conference features world class speakers including:
Maurice Strong, special advisor to the UN Secretary General, and chair
of the 1992 Earth Summit will receive a Special Lifetime Achievement
Award.
Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, Chair of the Science Committee of the
U.S. House of Representatives will receive the NCSE Congressional
Leadership Award.
Donald Kennedy, editor of Science magazine and past-President of
Stanford University will present the keynote address.
Distinguished Harvard University biologist Dr. Edward O. Wilson will
present the second John H. Chafee Memorial Lecture. Dr. Wilson's talk is
entitled "The Future of Life."
Governor Jaime Lerner of the Brazilian state of Parana and former Mayor
of Curitiba, will speak about Curitiba, one of the world's most
sustainable cities.
Plenary case studies will also look at Portland, Oregon and the Working
for Water Program in the Republic of South Africa.
Participate in one of 19 breakout sessions, which will develop
recommendations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD),
the UN-sponsored conference that will take place in Johannesburg, South
Africa in September 2002. These recommendations will be reviewed by a
distinguished panel including former congressman John Porter, Maurice
Strong, the leading people in the Bush Administration's preparation for
WSSD, and representatives of the United Nations and citizens groups. See
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=949#LIST
for a list of breakout sessions and to register online for a session.
View the Sustainability Science Products & Projects Exhibition. Recent
literature, new innovative machinery, sustainable ideas, and much much
more will be on display throughout the day. A list of exhibitors can be
found at
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=1347
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is hosting a Sustainable
Agriculture, Rural Development, and Land stakeholder discussion on
Wednesday, December 5, 2001 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. in Rooms 10 and 11 at
the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel. This FREE to the public open
briefing and listening session will assist the U.S. Government in its
preparations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD).
This session is open to all stakeholders and will focus on receiving
citizen ideas on important on sustainable agriculture, rural development
and land issues for WSSD. See
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/page.cfm?FID=1399
Do not miss this opportunity to meet some of the most innovative people
in the sustainable development field.
If you are planning to attend the conference, please register today at
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/registration.cfm
Discounted rooms are still available at the Renaissance Washington DC
Hotel. Go to
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/travel.cfm
More information can be found at the conference web site:
http://www.cnie.org/NCSEconference/2001conference/
--
Kevin Hutton, Webmaster
National Council for Science and the Environment
1725 K St. NW Suite 212 Washington, DC 20006
http://www.cnie.org
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 11:22:59 -0600
From: lgough <lgough@BAMA.UA.EDU>
Subject: Freshwater Sciences Ph.D. Fellowships
The Center for Freshwater Studies at the University of Alabama (UA) and the
Hydrogeoecology Group at the University of New Mexico (UNM) are pleased to
announce the availability of Ph.D. fellowships for our collaborative
Freshwater Sciences Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program that is funded throug
the National Science Foundation (NSF) Integrative Graduate Education and
Research Training (IGERT) Program. This program was initiated by the NSF to
broaden career options for Ph.D. graduates by developing expertise in
interdisciplinary, team-oriented research. Our UA/UNM Freshwater Sciences
program emphasizes aquatic ecology, environmental geology, and hydrology. I
provides opportunities for IGERT Fellows through a newly developed core
curriculum, inter-regional research, applications of fundamental research to
problem-solving in ecosystem restoration and management, and other activitie
that will enhance student skills in team-building and communication.
We currently have 18 students in our program and are recruiting students for
entry in the 2002/2003 academic year. Students receive 12-month, $15,000
stipends for up to 3 years and additional years of support through graduate
research and/or teaching assistantships (with tuition and fees paid) as need
d
to complete the degree. Additional funding is provided to support IGERT
activities. The application process includes (1) application and acceptance
into one of the participating IGERT departments at either UA or UNM (deadlin
s
for application vary depending on department or institution); and (2) review
of applications for an IGERT fellowship.
The IGERT fellowships are available only to US citizens.
Please visit our website at: http://www.as.ua.edu/IGERT/
Before you apply or for more information, please contact one of the followin
:
Dr. Amy Ward
Director, Center for Freshwater Studies
The University of Alabama
P.O. Box 870206
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0206
205-348-1896
award@biology.as.ua.edu
Dr. Cliff Dahm
Hydrogeoecology Research Group
The University of New Mexico
Department of Biology, 167A Castetter Hall
Albuquerque, NM 87131-1091
505-277-2850
cdahm@sevilleta.unm.edu
-----------------------------------------
Laura Gough, Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0206
phone: 205-348-9034
fax: 205-348-1403
LGough@biology.as.ua.edu
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 14:49:57 -0500
From: Jaclyn Schnurr <schnurr@SREL.EDU>
Subject: Another biological crust question
Hi everyone,
The pdf document that was suggested the other day had loads of helpful data
on biological crusts, especially those found in the arid environments of the
west. My question has to do with biological crusts in the southeastern
United States, in particular in the Sandhill systems of the coastal plain.
Does anyone know of any citations or studies/people currently researching
these systems?
Thanks for any information,
Jackie
---------------------------------------------
Jaclyn Schnurr, PhD
Postdoctoral Associate
Savannah River Ecology Lab
Drawer E
Aiken, SC 29802
803-725-5925
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 14:33:11 -0500
From: Jason Mathers <jmathers@UCSUSA.ORG>
Subject: Help Stop the Invasions!
Apologies for cross-postings
** The Problem: The spread of invasive species is one of the
most serious, and least appreciated, causes of both species
extinctions and major environmental and economic impacts
across the United States and around the world. How do we
ensure that policymakers and the media understand the
gravity of the problem and use sound science to improve
policy more quickly and effectively?
** One Part of the Solution: The Union of Concerned
Scientists (UCS) has undertaken an exciting new project
designed to strengthen policies that substantially reduce
the introduction and spread of invasive species in the
United States and decrease their impacts on native
ecosystems and biodiversity.
UCS will be working closely with ecologists and conservation
biologists to bring credible science to national and state
policy debates on this issue. Maximizing opportunities to
interact with policymakers, the media, and the public, UCS
will help ensure that scientists' voices are heard in the
policy arenas that matter most.
We invite you to join us.
You may have heard about us -- UCS (70,000 members strong)
has a long history of advancing responsible public policies
in areas where science and technology play a critical role.
Most recently, in an effort to educate members of Congress
about the science and impacts of climate change, UCS
sponsored visits by scientists from 12 strategically
selected states -- along with local economists, business
leaders, and religious leaders -- to their state's
congressional delegation. We have also engaged in two
extremely productive collaborations with the Ecological
Society of America -- one to bring the ecological impacts of
climate change home to particular regions, and a second to
effectively communicate the concepts of ecosystem services
to the public and policymakers.
We work with scientists through our **Sound Science
Initiative** (SSI) -- established in response to the
scientific community's growing concern over damage to
Earth's natural systems. Since 1995, SSI has been an
effective email-based vehicle for scientists to respond to
and influence fast-breaking media and policy developments on
environmental issues of global significance, with a special
focus on climate change and loss of biological diversity.
Through an electronic "action alert," SSI informs its more
than 2,600 member scientists of opportunities for action.
Scientists participating in the SSI network can expect an
average of one to three emails per month, although the
number varies depending on where you live and on which
issues you choose to focus. "Taking action" normally
involves writing letters, but some members may also write
op-eds, become a "resource scientist" for a local reporter,
talk with policymakers, or speak publicly. We make it easy
for you, a busy scientist, to participate by providing
thoughtful analyses, background resources, political
insights, and guidance on communicating with policymakers
and the media. SSI will make sure you have the information
you need to be effective in your work with us on invasive
species.
How You Can Help: Please take a moment to learn more about
UCS, SSI, and our new invasive species project by visiting
our website at:
< http://www.ucsusa.org/environment/bio_invssi.html >
As harmful invasive species spread across the landscape,
threatening habitats and the species within them, there is
much to be done. Policymakers tell us again and again that
the voice of science -- your voice -- is urgently needed to
provide sound input into decisionmaking by the
Administration, Congress, and state and federal agencies; to
increase the level of scientific accuracy in the media; and
to provide leadership in building a more informed citizenry.
To join SSI, please visit the UCS website at:
< http://www.ucsusa.org/environment/bio_invssi.html >. If you
have any questions or concerns, please contact us at
<ssi@ucsusa.org>. (Please note: SSI membership is intended
for professionals or graduate students in the physical,
natural, or social sciences.)
Please join us in our work on invasive species and other
global environmental issues. Together we can make an
important contribution to environmental literacy and
scientifically sound policy.
Sincerely,
Phyllis N. Windle, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist & Invasive Species Project Leader
Global Environment Program
Union of Concerned Scientists
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 15:47:10 -0500
From: Courtney Murren <cmurren@WAM.UMD.EDU>
Subject: Graduate student or possible Post-Doc opportunity
Ph.D. or possible PostDoc Opening:
A five year Ph.D. studentship from NSF, open to all nationalities, is
available to work with C. Fenster and M. Dudash at the University of
Maryland. The aim of the project is to quantify the role of pollinators
as selective agents of floral design for three closely related Silene
species (Caryophyllaceae). The research is motivated by the current
discussion of the relevancy of pollination syndromes to our
understanding of the origin and maintenance of floral diversity. The
emphasis of the work will be field studies conducted at Mountain Lake
Biological Station, in the Southern Appalachians, USA. An abstract of
the funded proposal follows below, as well as relevant citations.
Fellowship includes a minimum of 3 semesters of research assistantship,
five years of summer salary, and all expenses during the summer.
Alternatively, funding could be stretched to hire a PostDoc, especially
if the PostDoc provides partial support.
We wish to have a candidate that can conduct research during the 2002
field season (mid-May-August). Interest in understanding evolutionary
process is a prerequisite.
Graduate student applications need to be directed to either the
Department of Biology (www.life.umd.edu/Biology/ ) or BEES (Behavior,
Ecology, Evolution, Systematics) (www.life.umd.edu/grad/BEES/ )
interdepartmental graduate program. The window of acceptance of
applications to the Department of Biology is January 7 to March 1, 2002,
however international candidates must apply by February 1. BEES
applications must be received by January 15, 2002. Qualified graduate
applicants will be eligible for further University based fellowship
support. If interested or requiring more information, please contact C.
Fenster AND M. Dudash. Applications should include a letter describing
research interests, a C.V., and names, telephone number and e-mail
addresses of references.
Please send all inquiries/applications to:
C. Fenster
Dept. of Biology
H. J. Patterson Hall
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
e-mail: cf25@Umail.umd.edu
www.life.umd.edu/Biology/Faculty/Fenster/index.html
AND
M. Dudash
Dept. of Biology
H. J. Patterson Hall
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
e-mail: md59@Umail.umd.edu
www.life.umd.edu/Biology/Faculty/Dudash/index.html
Project Summary
Quantifying the role of pollinator mediated selection in the evolution
of pollination syndromes in Silene (Carophyllaceae)
The origins of pollination syndromes as reflecting pollinator mediat
d
selection is one of the central paradigms related to the evolution of
floral diversity. However, observations and recent models question the
importance and commonness of pollination syndromes and reveal how little
is known of the precise processes responsible for the evolution of
floral traits that influence plant-pollinator interactions. The central
focus of the proposal is to quantify the role of pollinator mediated
selection in generating and maintaining the present suite of floral
traits that differentiate three closely related species of Silene, S.
virginica, S. caroliniana, and S. stellata (Carophyllaceae). Another
important goal of the proposal is to determine if pollination syndromes
represent the evolution of synergistically interacting trait
combinations. There is very high support from a molecular phylogeny that
all three species are closely related to one another and either S.
caroliniana or S. stellata are sister taxa to S virginica. Silene
virginica, or fire-pink, exhibits traits typical of the hummingbird
pollination syndrome: bright red, pendant flowers which have no landing
platform, no detectable nectar guides or floral odors and produce
copious amounts of deeply held rich nectar. In contrast, S. caroliniana
has narrow tubed, white-pink flowers corresponding to predicted moth
pollination and S. Stellata has wide tubular white flowers suggesting
pollination by a combination of moths and bees. Our previous work has
documented that hummingbirds account for the greatest proportion of
seed-set of all floral visitors to S. virginica. Consequently, a major
theme of this proposal is to determine whether patterns of selection on
floral characters match the predicted role of the important pollinators
as the primary selective agents in the floral evolution of the three
closely related Silene species. Because our questions are within a
phylogenetic context we can define the relevant character states and
transitions that contribute to the origin and/or maintenance of
potential pollination syndromes in the three Silene species. Given that
there is only one species of hummingbird in eastern North America, the
Ruby-throat, Archilocus colubris, we believe that S. virginica may
represent a simplified model of plant-pollinator interactions in which
to compare its candidate sister taxa.
To quantify pollinator importance for each of the three Silene speci
s,
we propose detailed pollinator observations that incorporate measures of
visitation frequency and efficient pollen transport. We also propose to
study the level of discrimination among the pollinators for each of the
Silene species by quantifying pollinator visitation in a mixed species
array. The efficiency of pollen transport may be more important than
discrimination in determining which pollinators are the major selective
agents of floral design for our study species. Thus, we also propose to
measure efficiency or inefficiency of inappropriate important
pollinators on the different Silene species (e.g., the important
pollinator of S. virginica, likely hummingbirds, on S. caroliniana). We
will conduct single and multi-trait floral phenotypic manipulation for
each of the three Silene species. By conducting multi-trait
manipulations we can also examine the contribution of interactions among
floral traits and future survivorship and reproduction which may give
rise to apparent stabilizing selection on floral traits, or stasis of
floral traits when pollinators are exerting directional selection on
these traits. Our studies will be conducted across years to place our
experiments and observations in the appropriate ecological context
incorporating temporal variation. Thus we hope to provide a deeper
understanding of the validity of the pollination syndrome concept as
well as the selective processes responsible for the origin and
maintenance of floral traits in the three divergent, yet closely related
species of Silene.
Relevant Citations:
Fenster, C. B., C. Hassler and M. R. Dudash. 1996. Fluorescent powder is
a good analog of pollen in Silene virginica (Caryophyllaceae). Canadian
Journal of Botany 74: 189-193.
Dudash, M. R. and C. B. Fenster. 1997. Multiyear study of pollen
limitation and cost of reproduction in iteroparous Silene virginica.
Ecology 78: 484-493.
Fenster, C. B. and M. R. Dudash. 2001. Spatiotemporal variation in the
role of hummingbirds as pollinators of Silene virginica. Ecology 83:
46-50.
Dudash, M. R. and C. B. Fenster. 2001. The role of breeding system and
inbreeding depression in the maintenance of an outcrossing mating
strategy in Silene virginica (Caryophyllaceae). American Journal of
Botany 88: 1953-1959.
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 16:00:08 -0500
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Natural History Educator
Company: Buffalo Bill Historical Center
Location: Cody, Wyoming
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4869
Title: Intern, San Francisco Bay Sedimentation Project
Company: US Geological Survey
Location: Menlo Park, California
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4868
Title: Eco-Policy Research Assistant
Company: Consumers Union
Location: Yonkers, New York
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4867
Title: Sr. Wetlands Project Manager
Company: Onsite Companies (recruiter)
Location: Sacramento, California
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4866
Title: Senior Building Energy Analyst
Company: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Location: Richland, Washington
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4865
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 15:11:48 -0700
From: Tom Kolb <Tom.Kolb@NAU.EDU>
Subject: research associate announcement
Research Associate
School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University
Forest Entomology/Entomology/Host Plant Interactions
General Information: A position for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate is
open in the School of Forestry at Northern Arizona University (NAU). The
researcher will work with Dr. Michael Wagner (Forest Entomology) and Dr.
Tom Kolb (Forest Ecophysiology) on a project supported by the USDA Forest
Service. The overall objective of the project is to assess the effects of
various stand level forest treatments including thinning, prescribed
burning, and forest restoration treatments on damaging insects, tree growth
and physiology, and tree resistance to insects. The work will require
field assessment of pine bark beetle and defoliating insect populations
and forced bioassays for bark beetles. The tree physiology work will
include periodic measurements of tree water, carbon and nutrient relations,
and tree growth. The researcher will be expected to collect and analyze
data collected, prepare oral and written reports and manage the field sites
with a high degree of autonomy. Funding is anticipated for 1-2 years.
NAU is a committed Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action
Institution. Women, minorities, veteran and individuals with disabilities
from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. NAU is responsive to the
needs of dual career couples. Finalists for the position will undergo a
background investigation.
Minimum Qualifications: Nearly completed Ph.D. in forest entomology,
entomology, plant-insect interactions, or a related area of study; research
experience with forest insects and field forestry; high motivation to
perform self-directed research in the laboratory and field; ability to work
collaboratively with a research team; demonstrated ability in oral and
written presentation of research results.
Desired Qualifications: Completed Ph.D. in forest entomology, entomology,
plant-insect interactions, or a related area of study; research experience
with forest insects and field forestry experience; research experience with
forest insects in pine forests; experience with insect populations
assessment; research experience with insect bioassay experiments; research
experience with insect surveys in conifer forests.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities: Ability to use modern computers, including
word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software; ability to produce
databases, reports, and manuscripts; ability to travel and work unusual
hours; ability to work with people from a variety of culturally diverse
backgrounds.
Salary: $30,000 per year; includes medical, dental, and retirement benefits
Application: This is a pre- notification for an expected position. An NAU
job application will be required for this position. Application
information will be available at the following website:
http://www.nau.edu/~hr/jobs/index.html beginning in about mid- December
2001. Please send an email to Dr. Wagner below to receive the formal job
announcement when it is released.
If you have any questions about the position, please contact:
Michael R. Wagner
School of Forestry
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5018
Ph: 928-523-6646
Email: Mike.Wagner@nau.edu
------------------------------
Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 29 Nov 2001 to 30 Nov 2001 (#2001-19)
There are 13 messages totalling 827 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. two positions- ecologist and a zoologist
2. camera and laser
3. correction
4. Urban Wildlife Biologist
5. Job Posting - Research Technician with forest restoration project
6. Buffer zones
7. Past fire regime is key to managing chaparral fires in southern Califor
ia
8. Study in Nature provides startling new evidence of declines in global
fisheries
9. Transgenic DNA discovered in native Mexican corn, according to a new st
dy
by U
10. Fw: 14DEC Deadline approaching: Call for Papers: US-IALE 2002
11. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
12. Gordon Research Conference on Floral Scent
13. Two Post-Doctoral Fellowships
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 10:18:47 -0500
From: Mary Crowe <crowe@COASTAL.EDU>
Subject: two positions- ecologist and a zoologist
<color><param>0100,0100,0100</param><smaller><sma
ler>We have the following 2 positions open. CCU was recently
recoqnized by NSF for excellence in the integration of teaching
and research......
Ecologist & Zoologist (2 positions) The Department of Biology
at Coastal Carolina University seeks to fill two full-time,
tenure-track positions at the Assistant Professor level for Fall,
2002. The Ph.D. is required. Successful candidates will be
expected to emerge as exemplars of teaching and to develop
potentially fundable research programs involving
undergraduates. These positions involve collaboration with
colleagues and a contribution to the introductory courses for
majors. For departmental information go to: http://coastal.edu.
ECOLOGIST: Applicants should have a strong background in
one or more of the following areas: physiological ecology of
aquatic plants or animals, community, ecosystem or landscape
ecology of wetlands or rivers. The research program
developed at Coastal Carolina University should focus on
coastal systems. Participation in a new M.S. degree in Coastal
Marine and Wetland Studies is expected. Teaching
responsibilities include general ecology and other courses
developed to strengthen existing programs. Preference will be
given to individuals with a plant focus.
ZOOLOGIST: We seek a broadly trained zoologist capable of
using molecular biology techniques to address questions in
one or more of the following areas: physiology, endocrinology,
or evolution. Teaching responsibilities include comparative
vertebrate anatomy and other courses developed to strengthen
existing programs. Applicants should submit a letter of interest
indicating the desired position, c.v., statement of teaching and
research goals, names, addresses and phone numbers of
three references to: Dr. James O. Luken, Department of
Biology, Coastal Carolina University, P.O. Box 261954,
Conway, SC 29528-6054. Application deadline is December
15, 2001. Coastal Carolina University is an E/O/E <bigger><bigger>
<nofill>
we must be the change we expect in the world
Mary Crowe
Associate Professor of Biology
Coastal Carolina University
P.O. Box 261954
Conway, S.C. 29528-6054
843 349 2236
crowe@coastal.edu
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 07:45:08 -0800
From: "Janisch, Jack" <JAJA461@ECY.WA.GOV>
Subject: camera and laser
a distillation of responses to my earlier question. many wrote with
recommendations. thanks to all.
camera:
camera users fell into two general groups, slr users and digit camera users.
digital recommendations were almost exclusively for the Nikon coolpix series
and most users were enthusiastic. the camera is small, light, easily
transported, described as producing high-quality pictures, and can be used
with simple bubble level and light tripod. this camera has survived heavy
use in both tropical and temperate ecosystems with little freeze-up, its
many image features and avoidance of the digitizing step giving it
additional appeal. however, at low light levels some commenters found that
lai estimates given by photos from the camera did not match those given by
lai-2000. in addition, Frazer et al 2001 (ag for met 109(4): 249-263), who
compared slr and digital results in a recent analysis of forest canopy
structure, found that " the Nikon coolpix 950 produced canopy openness
measures that were 1.4 times greater than film estimates in 22 of the 36
photo pairs". for high use, somewhat expensive extra batteries and storage
media may also be needed. a final point on the digital side was that some
felt the lens (some called it glass, others plastic) was easily scratched
and prone to generate distortion (possibly of unknown magnitude) near the
image perimeter. such distortion may be at least partially corrected by
match of corrective software to each camera when camera+software packages
are purchased. such packages also offer options such as northfinder, an
automated means of marking north compass direction on the photo.
professional, expensive digital systems with complex, minimal distortion
lenses may be available but we did not pursue this option. the Frazer
article also suggests digital camera and lens alternatives to the coolpix.
on the slr side users often had long successful histories with their
cameras. the range of high quality true 7-9 mm hemispherical lenses appears
to be wider and camera bodies (such as Nikon and Pentax) have proven
durability. lenses are easily exchanged, allowing types of photography with
a single camera body. some viewed digitization as relatively simple and
straight forward; others found it very time consuming. regardless,
digitization requires either a film scanner or contact with a film developer
who offers this service, returning the photos on cd. some users cautioned
that not all film developers will scan all film types to digital and, with
this system, there may thus be an added cost of film digitization to each
roll. slr-generated pictures were generally viewed as of higher resolution
and lower distortion than those produced by digital cameras, at least by
digital cameras in the $1000 range. since cost was repeatedly cited as a
determining factor in system choice and initial investment in an slr system
may be higher, project resolution needs should thus be considered. it may
be that distortion in digital photos does not interfere with forestry
applications where low-resolution is adequate but may in applications such
as lai. for some further discussion see "Frazer et al 1997. A method for
estimating canopy cover, leaf area index and photosynthetically active
photon flux density using hemispherical photography and computerized image
analysis techniques. Can. For. Serv., Pac. For. Cent., Inf. Rep. BC-X-373"
at www .pfc.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/ecology/chrono/chronopub_e.html.
hemispherical software: canopy, hemiview, GLA, and winscanopy were all
recommended. hemiview and winscanopy were described as good to excellent
but expensive (e.g. winscanopy $540-2250). winscanopy allows purchase of a
base version with later upgrade to versions with more image analysis
features. GLA is viewed as taking more attention to data management and
specific lens requirements, but with useful features and available free of
charge on the web at: www .ecostudies.org/gla. canopy is older but still
relevant dos-based software upon which some of the more recent hemispherical
software is based. in some cases trial software is available either by cd
or download from the internet.
laser: there were few comments but the Impulse, made by Laser Technology,
was highly recommended, in some cases exclusively by users with several
years experience. aside from general references to other laser-based
distance finding equipment, the only suggested alternative was a set of
Sonins, their advantages including low cost and small size. Sonin now
offers a laser which guides focus on the receiver, but does not measure
distance--e.g. the system is still sonar-based. maximum range for the
pro-quality set is 60 m. my personal experience with sonins was that they
were very useful in measuring 10-20 m plot forest plot radii but a shrub
understory introduced many false echos, and strangely (restless sonin
gods?), there were days when even perfectly clear shots seemed impossible.
in addition to distance, calculation of tree height, slope distance, and so
on are possible with the Impulse, a compact range finder costing around
$2400. a compass and monopod adds a further $1665.
thanks again for the commentary. regards,
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 07:59:54 -0800
From: "Janisch, Jack" <JAJA461@ECY.WA.GOV>
Subject: correction
max range for the pro sonin pair is 75 m, not 60 m.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 12:06:00 -0600
From: Patricia Ott <ottp@MAIL.CONSERVATION.STATE.MO.US>
Subject: Urban Wildlife Biologist
The Missouri Department of Conservation has a position available for a Urban
Wildlife Biologist in Kansas City, Missouri.
URBAN WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST
SALARY RANGE: Monthly $2,702 - $4,798; Annually $32,424 - $57,576
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides wildlife information and consultation
o individuals, groups, city, county, state and federal governments and real
state developers for management and development of urban wildlife habitat an
urban wildlife issues; develops urban wildlife management plans in coordina
ion with Urban Forester, Fisheries Biologist, Natural History Regional Biolo
ist and other Department personnel; conducts urban wildlife population surv
ys; provides response to public inquiries relating to wildlife habitat and b
havior; coordinates work of civic clubs and volunteer groups on tracts desig
ated for demonstrations; works closely with Media Specialist for development
of media coverage; develops programs and presentations for workshops and sem
nars; develops urban wildlife management guidelines and publications; coordi
ates outdoor programs with agencies and organizations and assists with publi
ity, activities and programs; maintains working relationship with!
nuisance wildlife control operators; and performs other duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a B
chelor's Degree in Biological Sciences, Zoology, Wildlife Management, Urban
ildlife Management or closely related subjects and three (3) years of profes
ional experience in wildlife research, management or other applicable work;
r an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Master's Degree
nd experience in Urban Wildlife Management are desirable. Approval as Certi
ied Wildlife Biologist by The Wildlife Society is desired.
Position closes December28, 2001.
For an application, contact the Missouri Department of Conservation, Human R
sources Division, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102 (573/751-4115
. Applications also available on Internet site at www.Conservation.state.mo
us/about/jobs/.
Equal Opportunity Employer
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 11:27:05 -0700
From: cmm65 <Chris.McGlone@NAU.EDU>
Subject: Job Posting - Research Technician with forest restoration project
There is a Research Technician position available with the Ecological
Restoration Institute at Northern Arizona University. The ERI is a large
research organization working on ponderosa pine forest restoration. We are
looking for a field research technician, preferrably with experience in fore
t
science (eg, dendrochronology, forest health measurements, etc.), though
individuals with other field experience or interests are welcome to apply.
For further details, please see the job posting on the web at
http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~hr/Home/NAU_Jobs/index.php
The job is listed under Classified Staff, vacancy # 553452. For additional
information, please contact me at chris.mcglone@nau.edu.
Please pass this notice on to anyone you feel may be qualified for and
interested in this position.
Thanks,
Chris McGlone
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Christopher M. McGlone
Research Specialist
Ecological Restoration Institute
Northern Arizona University, Box 15017
Flagstaff, AZ 86011
Chris.McGlone@nau.edu
(928)523-7739
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 14:12:42 -0800
From: Debbie Brewer <dabbrewer@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Buffer zones
Hello All,
I have a question that has no single answer, I know.
I have an area that contains a small short-lived
wetland and a gunnison's prairie dog town. A project,
that could disturb the nearby area by noise, large
vehicle use, and high foot traffic, is proposed. I am
interested in hearing from those of you who have
experience working with wetlands or small mammals and
buffer zone efficacy, what you believe would be an
effective buffer zone to insure the sustainability of
these resources.
Debbie A Brewer
Environmental Resources
Arizona State University
__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Buy the perfect holiday gifts at Yahoo! Shopping.
http://shopping.yahoo.com
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 17:34:39 -0500
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Past fire regime is key to managing chaparral fires in southern
California
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2001-11/usgs-pfr113001.php
Contact: Gloria Maender
gloria_maender@usgs.gov
520-670-5596
United States Geological Survey
Past fire regime is key to managing chaparral fires in southern
California
Understanding the natural role of fire in chaparral ecosystems is
necessary to effectively manage fires in southern California's
shrublands, where large, high-intensity fires sweep the landscape each
year, threatening lives and homes. Researchers have wondered if the
natural fire regime in chaparral ecosystems has been lost because of
overly effective fire suppression, and if fire managers can restore the
natural fire regime with widespread prescription burning and eliminate
the hazard of catastrophic fires.
USGS studies argue no to these speculations -- that there is no evidence
that past fire management policies have created the contemporary
chaparral fire regime dominated by massive Santa Ana wind-driven fires.
Writing in the December issue of Conservation Biology, USGS scientist
Dr. Jon Keeley and co-author C. J. Fotheringham, a graduate student at
the University of California, Los Angeles, refuted earlier studies that
suggested the natural chaparral fire regime was one of frequent small
fires that formed a landscape patchwork as a barrier to large,
catastrophic crown fires. They questioned the earlier claim that
destructive wildfires in southern California shrublands are a result of
unnaturally high fuel accumulation from past efforts to suppress fires,
and they presented arguments suggesting that landscape-scale
prescription burning is not an effective means of preventing such fires.
They added that limited and strategically placed prescription burns are
more cost effective.
"One of the most important roles for fire managers of these ecosystems
may be educating land planners on the limitations of reducing fire
hazards in these natural crown-fire ecosystems," said Keeley, a research
ecologist with the USGS Western Ecological Research Center at
Sequoia-Kings Canyon Field Station in Three Rivers, Calif.
Keeley and Fotheringham examined a model that compared contemporary
burning patterns in southern California, where fire suppression has been
practiced, with patterns in northern Baja California, Mexico, without
effective fire suppression. After reviewing the evidence, they concluded
that the degree to which fire regimes vary between these two regions was
debatable and that any differences that existed could not be
conclusively attributed to differences in fire suppression.
"Indeed, historical fire records show clearly that fire suppression has
not even come close to excluding fire in these chaparral ecosystems, as
is the case in many Western U.S. coniferous forests," said Keeley.
"Increased expenditures on fire suppression, and increased loss of
property and lives, are the result of human demographic patterns that
place increasing demand on fire suppression forces."
###
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 17:49:42 -0500
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Study in Nature provides startling new evidence of declines in glob
l
fisheries
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2001-11/s-sin112801.php Contact:
Jessica Brown
jbrown@seaweb.org
202-483-9570
SeaWeb
Study in Nature provides startling new evidence of declines in global
fisheries since late '80's
Vast over-reporting by China to United Nations has masked falling
catches
Leading scientists raise serious concerns about world food supply of
fish and management and economic decisions based on flawed data
Contrary to the statistics published by the Food and Agricultural
Organization of the United Nations (FAO), which indicate that the global
fisheries catch is stable, leading fisheries scientists reveal that
catches have actually been declining for over a decade. This new
evidence means that the true state of the oceans is far worse than
anyone has previously realized.
The study published in the November 29th issue of Nature shows that vast
over-reporting by the People's Republic of China combined with the large
and wildly fluctuating catch of a small fish, the Peruvian anchoveta,
have painted a false picture of the health of the oceans by inflating
the catch statistics and implying that "business as usual" is
sustainable.
"The global catch trend is not increasing, it is not even stable, but
rather it has been decreasing steadily since the late 80's," states one
of the study's authors, Dr. Reg Watson. "The bottom line is that the
downward trends in global fisheries catches have been obscured.
Fisheries management and economic decisions are being based on flawed
data," says Dr. Daniel Pauly, the other author.
"These earthshaking findings are the most significant fishery and food
security results in decades," says Dr. Jane Lubchenco, a Distinguished
Professor at Oregon State University and former president of the
American Association for the Advancement of Science. "They call into
question the very basis of international fisheries management."
Presently only a single institution, FAO, maintains global fisheries
statistics. As a UN organization, FAO receives but is not able to verify
the statistics reported by member countries, even when they are
suspected of being wrong. No mechanism exists for independent
verification of catch reports.
"I have been troubled a long time by the mismatch between what we know
is the case for various fisheries- that they are going downhill -and the
triumphalist reports of a global catch that continues to increase," says
Daniel Pauly, a renowned international authority on global fisheries.
"This study reconciles what we see at the local level - failing
fisheries - with what is happening at the global level - falling
catches."
Using FAO's catch data and a massive statistical analysis that compared
the predicted fisheries against those reported, the authors showed
errors in the official fishery statistics. These inflated statistics
have led to complacency about the need to more effectively manage
fisheries and have resulted in unwise investment decisions by banks and
industry.
Over the past 30 years there have been dramatic increases in the
exploitation of world fisheries including more species being marketed
and new fishing areas opening up. Increased effort and fishing pressures
are devouring the accumulated "old growth" riches of the sea. Despite
scientists' widespread expectations that world fisheries would plateau
at values of around 80 million tons, global catches reported by FAO
generally increased through the 1990's - driven largely by catch reports
from China.
The huge discrepancy between what is reported and the true state of
global fisheries is largely due to misreporting by countries with large
fisheries. "Many countries over and under-report their catch statistics,
but none has as big an impact as China," explains Pauly. Although
Chinese waters covers only 1 percent of the world's water surface, China
accounts for 40 percent of the deviation between reported and corrected.
The study highlights anomalies of in the 1990's of as much as 10
tonnes/km2 when compared to reported amounts for Chinese waters. "The
same state entities devoted to monitoring the economy are also tasked
with increasing its output. Our studies showed that whatever leaders set
as production targets is what is officially reported. If you dictate
fisheries to increase by 5 percent then it is reported to increase by 5
percent."
"Regardless of 'whodunnit' the message here is that our overfishing
problems are far more urgent than we even realized," says Andy
Rosenberg, Dean of the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the
University of New Hampshire and the former deputy director of the
National Marine Fishery Service. "It's not a case of 'lets gradually
phase in some solutions.' It's rather more urgent than that. Overfishing
is not a just a Chinese problem. We have serious overfishing problems
here as does Europe and we need to come to grips with them as urgently
as the Chinese do. This is a global problem, not a case of a few bad
actors."
This new picture of the state of the oceans raises serious concerns
about the supply of fish and world food supply, and its ability to keep
up with a rising world population. Some governments and industries
believe that aquaculture is the solution. But Watson and Pauly warn that
it is a fallacy to believe that aquaculture can make up the shortfall,
and caution against their results being used to call for more
aquaculture.
"Aquaculture cannot replace wild seafood because so much farmed seafood
relies on wild fish for fishmeal," Watson says. "Currently a third of
all fish landed globally goes into fishmeal and oil. Half is used for
aquaculture and half is used for agriculture.
The aquaculture component is increasing rapidly because we are using
fishmeal to raise carnivorous fish like salmon. If aquaculture is going
to help the situation, you have to raise vegetarian fish - like carp,
tilapia and shellfish - and not supplement their food with fish meals or
oils."
Fisheries are the most globalized food industry that exists. Over 75
percent of the world marine fisheries catch (over 80 million tons per
year) is sold on international markets.
This means that what happens in one country matters to another. Many
people do not realize the extent to which fish sold in the U.S. are
caught elsewhere in the world. "A lot of the fish eaten in the US now
are being imported from New Zealand, the Pacific, West Africa and
Antarctica," Pauly says. In terms of value the US catches shrimp, sea
cucumbers and now even jellyfish, and exports much of it to East Asia."
Pauly hopes that the study will remove a psychological weapon (the
distortions in the global reports submitted to FAO) that industry has
used to justify putting out more boats and building bigger trawlers.
"The United Nations FAO must have a stronger position in the future when
negotiating the supply of accurate data from the nations of the world,
and those data must be evaluated," he emphasizes. "Fisheries management
and economic decisions must be based on the best available data."
"I think the high seas must be managed, not simply watched," Watson
says. "We must insist that nations provide statistics that can be
verified."
###
ATTENTION JOURNALISTS: To obtain the studies, maps, graphics and contact
information go to: www.seaweb.org/NatureNovember29.html or contact
Jessica Brown at SeaWeb, phone 202-483-9570,
cell 202-437-5502, or email jbrown@seaweb.org
Contact:
Dr. Daniel Pauly
University of British Columbia Fisheries Centre
Phone: 604-822-1201
604- 221-5294
Cell: 604-338-4723
d.pauly@fisheries.ubc.ca
Dr. Reg Watson
University of British Columbia Fisheries Centre
Phone: 604-822-0226
r.watson@fisheries.ubc.ca
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 17:55:35 -0500
From: Karen Claxon <kclaxon@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Transgenic DNA discovered in native Mexican corn,
according to a new study by U
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2001-11/uoc--tdd112601.php
Contact: Sarah Yang
scy@pa.urel.berkeley.edu
510-643-7741
University of California - Berkeley
Transgenic DNA discovered in native Mexican corn, according to a new
study by UC Berkeley researchers
Berkeley - Some of Mexico's native varieties of corn grown in remote
regions have been contaminated by transgenic DNA, a finding that has
both surprised and dismayed the University of California, Berkeley,
researchers who made the discovery.
"This is very serious because the region where our samples were taken
are known for their diverse varieties of native corn, which is something
that absolutely needs to be protected," said Ignacio Chapela, assistant
professor of microbial ecology in the Department of Environmental
Science, Policy & Management at UC Berkeley's College of Natural
Resources.
In the study, published Thursday (Nov. 29) in the journal Nature,
Chapela and David Quist, lead author and UC Berkeley graduate student in
environmental science, policy and management, compared indigenous corn
with samples known to be free from genetic engineering as well as with
genetically modified varieties.
The native corn, or "criollo," samples were taken from four fields in
the remote, mountainous region of Sierra Norte de Oaxaca. Control
samples that had not been genetically modified came from blue maize
grown in the Cuzco Valley in Peru, and also from a collection of seeds
from the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca region taken in 1971, before the advent
of transgenic crops.
Using highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based tests, the
researchers checked for various elements of transgenic DNA constructs
used when bioengineered genes are introduced into a plant genome.
They found no signs of transgenic DNA in the Peru and 1971 seed
collection. In the criollo samples, however, four out of six samples
tested showed weak but clear evidence of p-35S, a promoter from the
cauliflower mosaic virus widely used in transgenic crops. When they
sequenced the DNA of the transgenic-positive criollo samples, the
researchers found that the CMV promoter matched those used in commercial
transgenic crops.
The presence of the nopaline synthase terminator sequence (T-NOS) from
Agrobacterium tumefasciens, another telltale sign of transgenic
contamination, was detected in two of the six criollo samples tested.
One criollo sample tested positive for the actual cry-1A gene of
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), the insecticidal bacterium that kills pests
feeding on corn.
"I repeated the tests at least three times to make sure I wasn't getting
false-positives," said Quist. "It was initially hard to believe that
corn in such a remote region would have tested positive."
Chapela and Quist said the contamination likely came from multiple
pollinations over time. They were able to identify the DNA fragments
flanking the CMV promoter sequence through inverse PCR tests. Those
fragments were diverse, suggesting a random insertion of the transgenic
sequence into the maize genome.
"If this contamination was the result of a single gene transfer event,
we would expect to find the transgenic DNA in a consistent location on
the criollo genome," said Quist. "Instead, we're finding it at different
points along the genome."
The researchers first detected the transgenic DNA in October 2000 while
working with the Mycological Facility in Oaxaca, a locally-run
biological laboratory where Chapela serves as the scientific director.
Soon after the initial discovery of the transgenic contamination,
Chapela alerted the Mexican government, which then proceeded to conduct
its own tests. Reporting the results in a September press release,
Mexico's Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources found
transgenic DNA in three to 10 percent of the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca
maize, supporting the results of the UC Berkeley researchers.
Just how the contamination occurred remains a puzzle. Agricultural
experts and proponents of biotech crops maintain that corn pollen is
characteristically heavy, so it doesn't blow far from corn fields by the
wind. Chapela said this assumption may need to be reevaluated in light
of the recent findings in Mexico.
In addition, Mexico imposed a moratorium in 1998 on new plantings of
transgenic maize. The closest region where bioengineered corn was ever
known to have been planted is 60 miles away from the Sierra Norte de
Oaxaca fields, said Chapela.
"It's not clear if the moratorium was poorly enforced, or if the
contamination occurred before the moratorium was enacted," said Chapela.
While new plantings are banned in Mexico, it is still legal to import
biotech corn into the country. "Whatever the source, it's clear that
genes are somehow moving from bioengineered corn to native corn," he
said.
Such a prospect is almost certain to fuel the already contentious debate
over the use of genetically modified crops. Proponents of transgenic
agriculture say biotechnology helps to increase crop yields for feeding
a rapidly growing world population, improve the food's nutritional value
and reduce the use of pesticides.
Opponents say not enough is known about the health and ecological
effects of biotech crops and that the risks outweigh the benefits.
To date, more than 30 million hectares of transgenic crops have been
grown, according to "Transgenic Plants and World Agriculture," a white
paper published in 2000 by a group of seven national science academies
around the world, including the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and
the Royal Society of London.
Genes from genetically modified crops that spread unintentionally can
threaten the diversity of natural crops by crowding out native plants,
said Chapela. A wealth of maize varieties has been cultivated over
thousands of years in the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca region, providing an
invaluable "bank account" of genetic diversity, he said. Chapela added
that genetically diverse crops are less vulnerable to disease, pest
outbreaks and climatic changes.
"We can't afford to lose that resource," said Chapela.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 17:33:12 -0600
From: Geoff Henebry <ghenebry@CALMIT.UNL.EDU>
Subject: Fw: 14DEC Deadline approaching: Call for Papers: US-IALE 2002
+ACI-LANDSCAPES IN TRANSITION: CULTURAL DRIVERS AND NATURAL CONSTRAINTS+ACI-
US-IALE 2002 Meeting: 17th Annual US Landscape Ecology Symposium
Lincoln, Nebraska, 23-27 April 2002
The December 14th deadline for abstract submission is rapidly approaching.
You may also access this information on the Symposium website:
www.calmit.unl.edu/usiale2002/
Abstract submission is now open. The preferred mode of submission is via
the webpage.
Abstract submission deadline is December 14th 2001.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 16:00:11 -0500
From: EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
Title: Tropical Forestry Lecturer
Company: The School for Field Studies
Location: Queensland, Australia
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4873
Title: Director of Bus Rapid Transit Education Program
Company: Fuel Cells 2000, Breakthrough Technologies Institute
Location: Washington, DC
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4872
Title: Climate Change and Energy Policy Officer
Company: WWF Philippines
Location: Quezon City, Philippines
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4871
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 15:19:23 -0800
From: Heidi Dobson <dobsonhe@WHITMAN.EDU>
Subject: Re: Gordon Research Conference on Floral Scent
Please note the upcoming conference:
Gordon Research Conference on
The Biology, Chemistry and Evolution of Floral Scent
March 3-8, 2002
The conference is open to all interested people, and we welcome all posters
n floral scent !
The program will have four sessions addressing widely different aspects of f
oral scent, each with 6 speakers:
Session 1: Pollination ecology and evolution of floral scent
Session 2: Methodology and chemistry
Session 3: Neurophysiology of scent perception
Session 4: Biosynthesis and genetic engineering
To view the complete program, and obtain more information, see the GRC websi
e at http://www.grc.org/programs/2002/floral.htm
To apply, go to the GRC website at http://www.grc.org (or http://www.grc.u
i.edu); the conference is listed under "Floral scent...".
Registration fees (which cover lodging and meals) are $680- $825, depending
n your lodging choice. The conference will take place in Ventura, California
USA at the Four Points Sheraton/Harbortown Resort (both hotel names are use
interchangeably in the GRC website).
For more information, please contact Heidi Dobson at dobsonhe@whitman.edu .
Dr. Heidi E. M. Dobson
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Biology
Whitman College
345 Boyer Avenue
Walla Walla, WA 99362 U.S.A.
Phone: (509) 527-5141 or 525-0972
Fax: (509) 5275904
E-mail: dobsonhe@whitman.edu
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 30 Nov 2001 16:38:10 -0800
From: Beth Sanderson <Beth.Sanderson@NOAA.GOV>
Subject: Two Post-Doctoral Fellowships
1) NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITION IN STREAM
ECOLOGY
2) NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP: OCEAN
CLIMATE CHANGE AND FISH POPULATION BIOLOGY
**************************
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITION IN STREAM
ECOLOGY
We are offering a National Research Council sponsored post-doctoral
research fellowship at the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NMFS) in
Seattle. The position is to study nutrient dynamics in streams of the
Salmon River Basin as part of a larger project designed to test the
effect of different nutrient enrichment strategies on and stream food
webs, emphasizing salmon. Generally, we are looking for an individual to
examine the cycling of nutrients in stream (surface and sub-surface) and
riparian ecosystems as a part of this project. Qualifications include a
Ph.D. with demonstrated experience in hydrology, biogeochemistry,
ecology, experimental design, field methods, and statistical analysis.
Support is initially for one-year but may be renewed depending on
funding. Fieldwork will take place in the Salmon River basin, Idaho
with laboratory and office facilities at the Northwest Fisheries Science
Center in Seattle, WA or the Mukilteo field station.
A primary focus of research at the Northwest Fisheries Science Center is
the conservation and recovery of wild populations of anadromous Pacific
salmonids. The postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to
interact with over 100 scientists from several Divisions at the
Northwest Fisheries Science Center on a diversity of scientific topics.
More details about specific research foci at the Center and potential
collaborators can be found at the NWFSC^Òs web site
(http://www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/) and through contacts below.
The postdoctoral positions are part of the National Research Council
Research Associateship program; salary is $36,000 U.S. per year.
Requirements for this NRC program are that you must have received a PhD,
ScD, or MD degree (or foreign equivalent) within the last five years, or
you must be able to present evidence of having completed all formal
requirements for the degree before tenure begins. U.S. citizenship is
not required. Application for the position will involve submission of a
research proposal to the National Research Council Research
Associateship Program (Application deadline is January 15, see more
information at the following web address:
http://www4.nationalacademies.org/pga/rap.nsf.). Awards will be
announced in March or April 2001, and tenure could begin soon
thereafter.
For more information on the project, position, and application process,
please contact Peter.Kiffney@noaa.gov (206-860-5611) or
Beth.Sanderson@noaa.gov (206-860-3410)
(Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725 Montlake Blvd. East, Seattle,
WA 98112).
*******************************************
NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP: OCEAN
CLIMATE CHANGE AND FISH POPULATION BIOLOGY
We are offering a postdoctoral research fellowship, sponsored by the
National Research Council, at the Northwest Fisheries Science Center
(National Marine Fisheries Service) in Seattle. A primary focus of
research at the Science Center is the conservation and recovery of wild
populations of anadromous Pacific salmonids and marine groundfish. The
postdoctoral position is to study the role of variation in ocean climate
in the decline and recovery of threatened and endangered fish. While
the impact of short and long-term climate cycles for fisheries is
generally recognized, the marine survival of anadromous and ocean fish
species has received less attention. Although a wide range of research
topics might be appropriate, we are particularly interested in proposals
that address 1) how existing climate models can improve our
understanding of the significance of the marine environment for the
status of a number of North Pacific fish species 2) the linkages between
the extent and frequency of climate cycles and potential impacts on fish
stocks in the North Pacific, 3) how these impacts interact with fish
density (i.e., marine density dependence), and 4) the possibility that
changes in North Pacific ocean condition may mask continuing declines in
salmon or marine fish stocks.
The postdoctoral position is part of the National Research Council
Research Associateship program; salary is $36,000 U.S. per year.
Requirements for this NRC program are that you must have received a PhD,
ScD, or MD degree (or foreign equivalent) within the last five years, or
you must be able to present evidence of having completed all formal
requirements for the degree before tenure begins. U.S. citizenship is
not required. Application for the position will involve submission of a
research proposal to the National Research Council Research
Associateship Program (Application deadline is January 15, see more
information at the following web address:
http://www4.nationalacademies.org/pga/rap.nsf.). Do not apply directly
to NRC--all applicants must apply through a specified advisor at a NOAA
laboratory (see contact information below). Awards will be announced in
March or April 2001, and tenure could begin soon thereafter.
For more information on the project, position, and application process,
please contact or Beth.Sanderson@noaa.gov (206-860-3410) or
Chris.Jordan@noaa.gov ( 206-860-3423) (Northwest Fisheries Science
Center, 2725 Montlake Blvd. East, Seattle, WA 98112).
------------------------------
End of ECOLOG-L Digest - 29 Nov 2001 to 30 Nov 2001 (#2001-19)
**************************************************************
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