ECOLOG-L Digest - 8 Dec 2001 to 9 Dec 2001 (#2001-28) ECOLOG-L Digest - 8 Dec 2001 to 9 Dec 2001 (#2001-28)
  1. ECOLOG-L Digest - 8 Dec 2001 to 9 Dec 2001 (#2001-28)
  2. FIRST II- Faculty Teams sought by MSU/Kellogg Bio Stn
  3. ECOLOG-L Digest - 9 Dec 2001 to 10 Dec 2001 (#2001-29)
  4. DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION SCIENCE: TNC STREAM PROJECT
  5. grad student award announcement
  6. Job posting
  7. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
  8. New Graduate Program in Regional Sustainability
  9. POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW POSITION IN POPULATION BIOLOGY
  10. Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions (fwd)
  11. Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions
  12. ECOLOG-L Digest - 6 Dec 2001 to 7 Dec 2001 (#2001-26)
  13. Re: Secondary Data
  14. ; Subject: Re: Secondary Data
  15. Re: Secondary Data
  16. job posting
  17. Plant ecologist position
  18. Re: Secondary Data
  19. Job Announcement
  20. RESULTS: post-clearcut eastern permanent plot studies of plant reco
  21. Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
  22. Re: experimental error tolerance in field work
  23. Endowed Chair Position
  24. Lomborg's extinction rate argument
  25. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
  26. Student Grant Announcement
  27. Re: [Nature Potpourri] Digest Number 147
  28. Archive files of this month.
  29. RUPANTAR - a simple e-mail-to-html converter.


Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 8 Dec 2001 to 9 Dec 2001 (#2001-28)

There is one message totalling 70 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:

  1. FIRST II- Faculty Teams sought by MSU/Kellogg Bio Stn

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date:    Sun, 9 Dec 2001 13:12:47 -0500
From:    Diane Ebert_May <ebertmay@PILOT.MSU.EDU>
Subject: FIRST II- Faculty Teams sought by MSU/Kellogg Bio Stn

THE FIRST II PROJECT AT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
KELLOGG BIOLOGICAL STATION

Regional Science Faculty are Invited to Participate in
Faculty Institutes for Reforming Science Teaching (FIRST II)
Through Field Stations Project
Funded by the National Science Foundation to
Michigan State University

Request for Applications
Applications for the formation of university or college Institutional
Teams committed to improving undergraduate science education are
requested.

Faculty Opportunities in FIRST II:
^Å Learn about and gain experience in active, inquiry-based science
teaching that increases student learning through workshops that model
this kind of teaching.
^Å Learn and gain confidence in using new instructional designs and
practices to enhance the effectiveness of your teaching and student
learning.
^Å Learn how to include all students in inquiry-based, active learning
activities.
^Å Learn and use multiple assessment strategies that provide evidence
of student learning.
^Å Join a regional and national network of faculty committed to
improving undergraduate science education.
^Å Facilitate collaboration among faculty teams about their reforms
toward achieving excellence in science teaching, and about the
criteria and strategies for the scholarship of teaching, so that
teaching can be recognized, evaluated, and rewarded within
institutions.

***If you wish to apply the applications are at this web site:
http://www.msu.edu/unit/lbs/first.html

The deadline for applications is January 30, 2002.

For more information contact Diane Ebert-May, Ph.D.
Director, Lyman Briggs School
Professor, Plant Biology
E-28 Holmes Hall
Michigan State University
E. Lansing, MI 48825-1107
Voice: (517) 432-7171
Fax: (517)-432-2758
ebertmay@msu.edu

--
Diane Ebert-May, Ph.D.
Director, Lyman Briggs School
Professor, Plant Biology
E-28 Holmes Hall
Michigan State University
E. Lansing, MI 48825-1107
Voice: (517) 432-7171
Fax: (517)-432-2758
ebertmay@msu.edu
http://www.msu.edu/~lbs/
http://www.msu.edu/course/lbs/144/f01

------------------------------

Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 9 Dec 2001 to 10 Dec 2001 (#2001-29)

There are 7 messages totalling 441 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:

  1. DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION SCIENCE: TNC STREAM PROJECT
  2. grad student award announcement
  3. Job posting
  4. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
  5. New Graduate Program in Regional Sustainability
  6. POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW POSITION IN POPULATION BIOLOGY
  7. Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions (fwd)

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 12:40:59 -0500
From:    Mark Bain <mbb1@CORNELL.EDU>
Subject: DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION SCIENCE: TNC STREAM PROJECT

DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION SCIENCE: TNC STREAM PROJECT

JOB TITLE:  Director of Conservation Science ^Ö French Creek
JOB FAMILY: Science
JOB NUMBER: 6001
FLSA STATUS:Exempt
SUPERVISOR: Director, French Creek Project
LOCATION: Meadville, Pa., and Sherman, N.Y.
DATE PREPARED: May 2001

SUMMARY OF POSITION
Under the direction of the French Creek Project Director, the Director
of Conservation Science at French Creek is responsible for providing
comprehensive science support to conservation programs throughout the
French Creek watershed in Pennsylvania and New York.  The Director of
Conservation Science is responsible for working with a wide range
partners to develop the hydrological and biological information
necessary to identify stresses and deploy conservation strategies to
conserve French Creek^Òs diverse assemblage of plants, animals, and
aquatic systems.  Under the direction of the French Creek Project
Director, and with the assistance of Nature Conservancy staff in
Pennsylvania and New York, the Director of Conservation Science will
serve as the conduit for bringing TNC resources to bear in the French
Creek watershed.
The Director of Conservation Science splits his/her time equally between
New York and Pennsylvania and maintains an office at both the French
Creek Project office in Meadville and The Nature Conservancy office in
Sherman.  The Director of Conservation Science reports to the French
Creek Project Director and supervises The Nature Conservancy^Òs French
Creek Field Representative in New York.


DUTIES
Assists French Creek Project in establishing and implementing strategic
conservation programs within the French Creek watershed.  With academic
and public partners, develops models of biohydrology, life cycles, and
ecosystem processes in order to clarify stresses and sources and focus
conservation action.  Identifies priority stream segments and
tributaries throughout the watershed.  Identifies and develops
conservation strategies that prevent or abate threats to French Creek
conservation targets and priority stream segments or tributaries.
Ensures that the French Creek Project can measure conservation success
at abating threats and enhancing populations of key species.
Establishes watershed-wide monitoring programs for mussels and darters.
Under direction of French Creek Project Director, conducts outreach to
farmers and local communities to advance BMPs in New York.  Maintains
close relationships with local, state, and federal agencies, private
landowners, and other partners in New York.  Supervises and oversees TNC
French Creek Field Representative in New York.  Maintains close
relationships with Freshwater Initiative and other Nature Conservancy
programs and staff.  Under the direction of the French Creek Project
Director, assists with public education and outreach efforts throughout
the watershed.


ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Advanced degree in the natural resource sciences, biological sciences,
hydrology, aquatic ecology or a closely related field. At least three
years experience in conservation or natural resources management with
direct experience at developing and applying practical applications of
scientific concepts and technical innovations for conservation purposes.
Demonstrated project management experience, including defining goals and
deliverables, assembling and motivating teams, managing team
assignments, scheduling, budgeting, and tracking progress and
milestones.  Excellent understanding of biological and land and water
conservation issues and strategies.  Ability to work under pressure and
manage multiple priorities simultaneously; flexibility to perform a wide
variety of tasks and make decisions on incomplete information.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.  Demonstrated ability
to gain the respect and cooperation of a wide variety of people, sell
ideas, and conduct meetings to accomplish tangible results.  Ability and
willingness to work evenings and weekends and travel on short notice.


To apply, send a cover letter and resume to:

The Nature Conservancy             >>> DO NOT EMAIL Mark Bain -
poster <<<<
339 East Avenue
Rochester, NY 14604

The Nature Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer.

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 13:32:04 EST
From:    "Swain, Pat (FWE) (Pat Swain)" <Pat.Swain@STATE.MA.US>
Subject: grad student award announcement

I've been asked to post the following, and to encourage proposals that deal
with the biology of invasive species in New England, as well as the
traditional topics given below. As always, the quality of the proposals is
the deciding factor in making the awards.

NEW ENGLAND BOTANICAL CLUB
GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH AWARD
The New England Botanical Club will offer up to $2,000 in support of
botanical research to be conducted by graduate students in 2002. This award
is made annually to stimulate and encourage botanical research on the New
England flora, and to make possible visits to the New England region by thos

who would not otherwise be able to do so. It is anticipated that two awards
will be given, although the actual number and amount of awards will depend o

the proposals received.
The awards will be given to the graduate student(s) submitting the best
research proposal dealing with systematic botany, biosystematics, plant
ecology, or plant conservation biology. Papers based on the research funded
must acknowledge the NEBC's support. Submission of manuscripts to the Club's
journal, Rhodora, is strongly encouraged.
Applicants must submit FOUR paper copies of each of the following: a proposa

of no more than three double-spaced pages, a budget, and a curriculum vitae.
Two letters in support of the proposed research, one from the student's
thesis advisor, should be sent directly to the Awards Committee by sponsors.
All materials should be sent to: Awards Committee, The New England Botanical
Club, 22 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138-2020. Proposals and supporting
letters must be received no later than Friday, March 1, 2002. The
recipient(s) will be notified by April 30, 2002.


Pat
-----------
Patricia Swain                                   Phone: 508-792-7270 x 160
Plant Community Ecologist           FAX: 508-792-7821
Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
Division of Fisheries & Wildlife
Rt. 135
Westborough, MA 01581

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 10:37:25 -0700
From:    Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park <cdnp@ZIANET.COM>
Subject: Job posting

PROGRAM COORDINATOR ($10.00 - 12.50/hr; 20hr/wk; no benefits)
Dedicated, energetic person needed at the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park, a=
=20
nonprofit organization providing environmental science education programs=20
for over 8,000 K-12 students, 300 teachers and 1,200 other adults each year=
=20
in southern New Mexico and west Texas. The Program Coordinator will work=20
with the Executive Director and 70 volunteers to schedule, plan and deliver=
=20
the Nature Park=92s education programs (field trips to the 960-acre Nature=
=20
Park site, classroom visits, schoolyard ecology program, teacher workshops,=
=20
and annual events). The Program Coordinator will also assist with Nature=20
Park fundraising efforts, volunteer and membership program, and site=20
development plans. Must be flexible and willing to work more than 20 hours=
=20
some weeks when large projects or events are underway (unofficial comp time=
=20
available).

Responsibilities:
1)      Work with the Executive Director and volunteers to schedule, plan=20
and deliver the Nature Park=92s education programs to K-12 students,=20
teachers, and other adults;
2)      Assist the Executive Director and Board of Directors with annual=20
fundraising plans, including helping to write and review grant proposals=20
and manage fundraising events;
3)      Direct membership services, including maintaining Nature Park=20
library, writing articles for the quarterly newsletter, maintaining a=20
membership database and helping update the web site;
4)      Assist with the volunteer program, including recruiting new=20
volunteers, providing volunteer recognition, and managing volunteer work;
5)      Provide assistance with the Nature Park=92s site development plans,=
=20
especially NEPA compliance; and
6)      Present talks about the Nature Park at occasional meetings.

Qualifications:
=B7       Excellent ability to communicate the scientific method and natural

=20
science concepts in an age-appropriate manner to K-12 students, teachers=20
and other adults
=B7       Extremely well organized and capable of juggling multiple projects

=20
and tasks
=B7       B.A. or B.S. in ecology-related field (advanced degree preferred)
=B7       Experience with the NEPA compliance process
=B7       Ability to work independently as well as in a team
=B7       Good writing and public speaking skills
=B7       Excellent record of completing assigned tasks in a timely manner
=B7       Valid driver=92s license
=B7       GIS experience desirable
=B7       Fundraising experience desirable
=B7       Spanish fluency desirable

Duration: 1 year with the possibility of extension contingent on funding

Start Date: Flexible (January 7 preferred)

Application Deadline: December 19 or until position is filled

To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume and contact information for=20
three references (name, position, phone, email and mailing address) to:
Dr. Stephanie Bestelmeyer, Executive Director
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park
P.O. Box 891
Las Cruces, NM 88004
505-524-3334
E-mail: cdnp@zianet.com (E-mail submissions welcome;  attachments must be=20
in Microsoft Word)
Nature Park web site: www.cdnp.org

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 16:00:17 -0500
From:    EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork

Title:   Senior Biologist
Company: Specialty Additions, Inc. (recruiter)
Location: Roseville, California
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4931


Title:   Sr. Environmental Planner/CEQA Project Manager
Company: Specialty Additions, Inc. (recruiter)
Location: Roseville, California
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4930


Title:   Consumer Services Coordinator
Company: Horizon Organic Dairy
Location: Boulder, Colorado
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4929


Title:   Quality Systems Specialist
Company: Horizon Organic Dairy
Location: Boulder, Colorado
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4928


Title:   Pre-Doctoral Summer Fellowships
Company: International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
Location: near Vienna, Austria
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4927


Title:   Seasonal Environmental Education Intern
Company: HawkWatch International
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4926


Title:   Research Fellows
Company: Carnegie Council on Ethics and International Affairs
Location: New York, New York
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4925

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 15:09:10 -0600
From:    lgough <lgough@BAMA.UA.EDU>
Subject: New Graduate Program in Regional Sustainability

Graduate Program in Regional Resilience and Adaptation

The Interdisciplinary Graduate Education and Research Training (IGERT) Progr
m
at the University of Alaska Fairbanks

http://www.regional-resilience.uaf.edu

Target date for applications February 1, 2002

The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a graduate training
program in Regional Resilience and Adaptation (RR&A) to train scholars,
policy-makers, and managers to address issues of regional sustainability in
an integrated fashion. This program prepares students to address a major
challenge facing humanity: To sustain the desirable features of Earth's
ecosystems and society at a time of rapid changes in all of the major
forces that shape their structure and functioning. The program provides
training at the PhD and Masters level. It integrates the tools and
approaches of ecology, economics, anthropology, climate dynamics,
philosophy, and community and regional development in a systems framework
to understand the functioning of regional systems. Our underlying
assumptions are: The major problems facing the world must be addressed at
the regional scale, and no solution is tenable unless it is ecologically,
economically, and culturally sustainable.  The program emphasizes
high-latitude ecosystems, where current management issues require an
application of the integrated understanding of these disciplines. This
approach is, however, equally applicable to all developing and developed
nations, and we welcome students who seek to apply this training to any
region of the globe.

The RR&A program provides training at the PhD and Masters levels.
Our goal is to educate a new generation of scholars, policy makers, and
managers to integrate the perspectives of natural and social sciences in
addressing both the basic understanding of regional systems and the
application of this understanding to management issues.  The program
provides training to graduate students from the University of Alaska and to
graduate students at other universities who wish to enroll for one year of
intensive course work in Regional Resilience and Adaptation at the
University of Alaska.  We provide course work and a seminar program that
integrates ecology, economics, and anthropology in a systems-modeling
framework. We also provide faculty mentorship and internships in areas
outside each student's parent discipline.  The RR&A program is associated
with numerous research programs at the University of Alaska and in state
and federal agencies. These research programs provide interdisciplinary
research opportunities for RR&A students.  The program emphasizes
cross-cultural communication through heavy involvement with the Alaskan
Native American community and with managers, businesses, and conservation
groups.

We offer NSF-funded fellowships to PhD candidates entering the program.
Additional funding is available to both PhD and Masters students through
participating departments.  A detailed description of the program and
application forms are available at or by contacting F. Stuart Chapin, III
(terry.chapin@uaf.edu) at the Institute of Arctic Biology, University of
Alaska, Fairbanks, AK 99775. February 1 is the target date for reviewing
applications to the RR&A program, although applications received after that
date will also receive consideration.

We strongly encourage applications from ethnic minorities and other
under-represented groups.

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 16:24:58 -0800
From:    Robin Petsick <rpetsick@UCDAVIS.EDU>
Subject: POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW POSITION IN POPULATION BIOLOGY

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW IN POPULATION BIOLOGY--The Center for Population
Biology at U. C. Davis invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellowship
in Population Biology, broadly defined to include ecology, systematics,
population genetics, and evolution.  The position is for two years, subject
to review after one year, and can begin as early as 1 June 2002 with an
annual salary of $28,000.  Up to $1,500 in removal expenses, and $4,000 per
annum in research support, will be available. The Fellow will be a fully
participating member in the Center for Population Biology, and will be
expected to have an independent research program that bridges the interests
of two or more CPB laboratory groups.  For more information about UCD
programs in population biology, see our web
pagehttp://www.cpb.ucdavis.edu.  Interested candidates should submit a
curriculum vitae, three letters of reference, a short (1-2 page)
description of research accomplishments, and a short (1-2 page) description
of proposed research indicating potential faculty mentors to:  CPB Fellow
Search Committee, Center for Population Biology, University of California,
One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616-8755.  Evaluation of applications will
begin on February 15, 2002.  The University of California is an affirmative
action/equal opportunity employer with a strong institutional commitment to
the development of a climate that supports equality of opportunity and
respect for differences.

------------------------------

Date:    Mon, 10 Dec 2001 18:54:54 -0800
From:    Ashwani Vasishth <vasishth@USC.EDU>
Subject: Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions (fwd)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 10 Dec 2001 22:59:10 +0000
From: Alphonse MacDonald <ipress@igc.org>
To: islandpress-l@igc.topica.com
Subject: Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions

Eco-Compass: Global Biodiversity of Ecoregions
http://www.islandpress.org/ecocompass/archives/ecosystems/ecoregions.html

The Ecoregions of the World project, and subsequent mapping, database,
and educational and scientific reports that have resulted from this
endeavor, have been a focus of the World Wildlife Fund - US Conservation
Science Program for just over eight years. Developing the methods for
delineating and classifying the biodiversity of the world into
ecoregions has been an ongoing and evolving process that has enlisted
the support and participation of thousands of regional experts and
organizations from around the world. The project has been an exercise in
working across country borders and has set the stage for improved
conservation initiatives at the international, regional, and landscape
levels. Importantly, it has changed the way we look at conservation
issues and how we address them.
The results of these assessments are being published by Island Press
(www.islandpress.org). The third assessment - Terrestrial Ecoregions of
the Indo-Pacific - will be available in late December, 2001 at a 20%
discount for orders placed before January 31, 2002. The two previous
volumes - Terrestrial Ecoregions of North American and Freshwater
Ecoregions of North America    - are also available at a 10% discount;
all three volumes are available as the Ecoregions Set at a special price
of $185.00 until January 31, 2002.
For more information on this project or to order these volumes visit
Eco-Compass at
http://www.islandpress.org/ecocompass/archives/ecosystems/ecoregions.html

__________________________________________________
To subscribe to Eco-Compass send a message to
islandpress-l-subscribe@igc.topica.com

To unsubscribe from Eco-Compass send a message to
islandpress-l-unsubscribe@igc.topica.com
___________________________
Eco-Compass by Island Press
The Environmental Publisher
1 (800) 828-1302
1 (707) 983-6432
Fax: 1 (707) 983-6414
info@islandpress.org
www.islandpress.org

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------------------------------

Subject: ECOLOG-L Digest - 6 Dec 2001 to 7 Dec 2001 (#2001-26)

There are 14 messages totalling 1465 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:

  1. Secondary Data (3)
  2. job posting
  3. Plant ecologist position
  4. Job Announcement
  5. RESULTS: post-clearcut eastern permanent plot studies of plant recovery
  6. experimental error tolerance in field work (2)
  7. Endowed Chair Position
  8. Lomborg's extinction rate argument
  9. Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork
 10. Student Grant Announcement
 11. [Nature Potpourri] Digest Number 147

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 08:49:10 -0500
From:    eann@JUNO.COM
Subject: Re: Secondary Data

Confusing matters are varying interdisciplinary usages.  For example, in
the physical sciences, "datum" refers specifically to a numerical or
geometric quantity or value that **serves as a base or reference for
other quantities or values** (emphasis added), the plural of which is
"datums".  The plural "data" is used for a group of statistical or
inclusive references, such as a list of related latitudes and longitudes.

Ann
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
E. Ann Poole, Ecologist and Environmental Planner
Concord, NH
"Helping Communities Meet the Challenges of Growth"
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

On Thu, 6 Dec 2001 15:01:58 -0600 Brian Ritzel <ritzel@PRAIRIENET.ORG>
writes:
> I find it easier, in terms of correct usage and avoiding blank
> stares,
> to use the terms "data point" and "data set" in place of "datum" and
> "data".  No muss, no fuss. :)
>
> And then there is this humorous usage note from webster.com:
>
> "Data leads a life of its own quite independent of datum, of which
> it
> was originally the plural. It occurs in two constructions: as a
> plural
> noun (like earnings), taking a plural verb and plural modifiers (as
> these, many, a few) but not cardinal numbers, and serving as a
> referent
> for plural pronouns (as they, them); and as an abstract mass noun
> (like
> information), taking a singular verb and singular modifiers (as
> this,
> much, little), and being referred to by a singular pronoun (it).
> Both
> constructions are standard. The plural construction is more common
> in
> print, evidently because the house style of several publishers
> mandates
> it."
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
> > [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Dave McNeely
> > Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2001 2:28 PM
> > To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
> > Subject: Re: Secondary Data
> >
> >
> > Warren, remember that according to most grammarians, usage
> > rules.  Therefore, some dictionary soon is almost certain to
> > recognize "data" as a collective noun, like sugar, and drop
> > the separate singular and plural forms.  I know, these are
> > Latin forms, and the endings indicate whether singular or
> > plural.  And by maintaining that usage, we are able to convey
> > whether we collected one piece of information, or more than
> > one.  I am careful to preserve in MY use, these correct
> > forms.  But languages evolve, and I often get blank stares
> > when I attempt to correct my students, who then, once I
> > explain to them, seem to understand.  But they then continue
> > the use of "data" as a collective, as in "this data," despite
> > the explanation.  I have stopped attempting to correct anyone
> > else, for the sake of decorum.  Precision of language seems
> > to be going the way of too many species.

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 09:18:25 -0600
From:    Dave McNeely <dlmcneely@LUNET.EDU>
Subject: Re: Secondary Data

But of course, many data do not exist as "points," and so cannot be so
referenced in the singular.  They do exist in sets, where the plural is
concerned.  I wonder if the writer of the passage below even realizes
how unlikely it is that the average speaker will be able to follow its
meaning?  But then, I guess anyone who was bothering to look, probably
would.

Thanks.

Brian Ritzel wrote:

>I find it easier, in terms of correct usage and avoiding blank stares,
>to use the terms "data point" and "data set" in place of "datum" and
>"data".  No muss, no fuss. :)
>
>And then there is this humorous usage note from webster.com:
>
>"Data leads a life of its own quite independent of datum, of which it
>was originally the plural. It occurs in two constructions: as a plural
>noun (like earnings), taking a plural verb and plural modifiers (as
>these, many, a few) but not cardinal numbers, and serving as a referent
>for plural pronouns (as they, them); and as an abstract mass noun (like
>information), taking a singular verb and singular modifiers (as this,
>much, little), and being referred to by a singular pronoun (it). Both
>constructions are standard. The plural construction is more common in
>print, evidently because the house style of several publishers mandates
>it."
>
>

David L. McNeely, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
P.O. Box 1500
Langston University
Langston, OK 73050

Telephone (405) 466-6025
Email dlmcneely@lunet.edu
Web page http://www.lunet.edu/mcneely

"Are we there yet?"
Source unknown

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 09:36:47 -0500
From:    Kate Jones <kate.jones@VIRGINIA.EDU>
Subject: job posting

Opportunities for research in biodiversity and conservation in
John Gittleman's lab, University of Virginia.

GIS Research Assistant
Full time research assistant needed for 18 months beginning
January 2002 in the Department of Biology, University of
Virginia. The research assistant is needed for an international
collaborative project with Conservation International, The
World Conservation Union (IUCN), and other prominent
conservation and university research groups around the world.
The applicant must have extensive experience in the use of
Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms (including
ArcView and ArcInfo). Computer programming skills must
include ability to program in ArcView and ArcInfo as well as the
technical ability to perform complex spatial analyses. Experience
with database platforms is also required, especially Microsoft
Access. Applicant must also have the ability to handle multiple
tasks, deal with large databases, and provide technical problem-
solving.

Graduate Student: PhD Candidate in Biodiversity and
Macroevolution
PhD candidate position available in biodiversity and comparative
biology. Specifically to study large-scale questions in mammalian
evolution, including biogeographical patterns and processes,
biodiversity, macroecology, life history evolution, phylogenetics
and conservation. Applicants should have a strong quantitative
analytical background; any experience in phylogenetic methods,
relational databases and geographic information systems would
be an advantage. Stipends will be provided by teaching and
research assistantships in the department. Positions to begin at
the latest in Fall 2002.

Our lab is interested in large-scale questions in biodiversity and
macroevolution see http://www.faculty.virginia.edu/gittleman for
more details. We are located at the University of Virginia, in
beautiful Charlottesville, Virginia, close to the Shenandoah
National Park.

For more information, please contact Dr. Kate Jones
Department of Biology, Gilmer Hall
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA 22904
Phone: +00 1 (434) 982-5629
Email: kate.jones@virginia.edu



*********************************************************
Dr. Kate Jones
Department of Biology
Gilmer Hall
University of Virginia
Charlottesville VA 22904-4328, USA
+00 1 (804) 982-5629; Fax: +00 1 (804) 982-5626
*********************************************************
http://faculty.virginia.edu/katejones/

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 09:58:58 -0800
From:    Matt Sanderson <mas44@PSU.EDU>
Subject: Plant ecologist position

Plant Ecologist (GS-11/12). The Agricultural Research Service of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture has a permanent, full-time research employment
opportunity for a Plant Ecologist who will conduct basic and applied
research on plant community changes and ecosystem processes in
temperate/humid grassland ecosystems as affected by grazing animals and
agricultural management. The position will be located in the USDA-ARS
Pasture Systems and Watershed Management Research Unit on the campus of
Penn State University in University Park, PA. The specific research
objective is to quantify the contribution of plant species diversity to
grazed ecosystem productivity, resilience, and persistence by: 1)
determining how biodiversity in grazing lands affects productivity at
multiple scales, 2) quantifying spatial variability in plant populations
and communities in grazed ecosystems, and 3) integrating the information
into appropriate models. Research is predominantly field-based and will be
conducted at multiple scales and will require innovative experimental
designs and approaches to determine how spatial variability and landscape
factors affect ecosystem processes.  The research will be conducted
collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team researching the
effects of grazing systems on biodiversity, nutrient cycling, productivity,
and hydrology of farms and landscapes. A Ph.D. or equivalent in plant
ecology, botany, or a closely related field is desired. Candidates must
have knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of plant ecology
and be skilled in the use of multivariate and spatial statistical
techniques in the design and analysis of plant ecology experiments.
Starting annual salary will be $43,326 to $67,500. For information on the
research program please contact Dr. Matt Sanderson at 814-865-1067 or
mas44@psu.edu. For a Vacancy Announcement, which includes complete
application instructions and required qualifications please contact Donita
Gibonney (814-863-0940). You will also find the announcement posted on the
REE website at www.ars.usda.gov/afm2/divisions/hrd/index.html under
announcement ARS-X2E-1551. Applications must be postmarked by December 17,
2001. This is a competitive, permanent appointment and U.S. citizenship is
required. ARS is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Women and
minorities are encouraged to apply.


Matt A. Sanderson
Research Agronomist
Pasture Systems and Watershed Management Research Unit
USDA-ARS
Building 3702, Curtin Road
University Park, PA 16802-3702
Tel (814) 865-1067
FAX (814) 863-0935
email:mas44@psu.edu

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 12:44:38 -0600
From:    Dave McNeely <dlmcneely@LUNET.EDU>
Subject: Re: Secondary Data

When I wrote this, I failed to observe precision of language, and so
failed to note that some might think I meant that what you wrote was
difficult to follow for the average person.  Not at all.  It was the
webster.com passage that I referred to.  I apologise if my meaning was
misunderstood.

Dave McNeely wrote:

> But of course, many data do not exist as "points," and so cannot be so
> referenced in the singular.  They do exist in sets, where the plural
> is concerned.  I wonder if the writer of the passage below even
> realizes how unlikely it is that the average speaker will be able to
> follow its meaning?  But then, I guess anyone who was bothering to
> look, probably would.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Brian Ritzel wrote:
>
>> I find it easier, in terms of correct usage and avoiding blank star
s,
>> to use the terms "data point" and "data set" in place of "datum" an

>> "data".  No muss, no fuss. :)
>>
>> And then there is this humorous usage note from webster.com:
>>
>> "Data leads a life of its own quite independent of datum, of which 
t
>> was originally the plural. It occurs in two constructions: as a plu
al
>> noun (like earnings), taking a plural verb and plural modifiers (as
>> these, many, a few) but not cardinal numbers, and serving as a refe
ent
>> for plural pronouns (as they, them); and as an abstract mass noun (
ike
>> information), taking a singular verb and singular modifiers (as thi
,
>> much, little), and being referred to by a singular pronoun (it). Bo
h
>> constructions are standard. The plural construction is more common 
n
>> print, evidently because the house style of several publishers mand
tes
>> it."
>>
>>
>
> 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
>
>
>
>

--
David L. McNeely, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
P.O. Box 1500
Langston University
Langston, OK 73050

Telephone (405) 466-6025
Email dlmcneely@lunet.edu
Web page http://www.lunet.edu/mcneely

"Are we there yet?"
Source unknown

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 12:59:37 -0600
From:    Jorgensen.Eric@EPAMAIL.EPA.GOV
Subject: Job Announcement

Sorry for the Subject Line that was in error before.


Vacancy Announcement
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA)
Vacancy Announcement Number: EPA-02-SES-ORD-6230

Go to USAJOBS for more information.
           Opening Date:
                        12/03/2001
           Closing Date:
                        01/18/2002

           Position:
                        DIRECTOR, SUBSURFACE PROTECTION & REMEDIATION
                        DIVISION - USEPA

                        ES-0340-01/03

           Salary:  $117,749 - $128,570 per year

          Duty Location:     1 vacancy at Ada, OK
          WHO MAY APPLY:

          Open to all qualified persons.
          MAJOR DUTIES:
          This is a Senior Executive Service
          (SES) position located in Office of Research and Development,
National Risk
          Management Research Laboratory, in Ada, Oklahoma.
          Serves as the Director, Subsurface Processes and Systems
Division and is
          responsible for planning, developing, organizing, directing
and implementing a
          number of national research, development and demonstration
programs for which
          assigned Agency-wide.   These programs are in the broad areas
of subsurface
          systems management and ground water cleanup.  Incumbent will
assess needs,
          define goals, develop program plans, establish organizational
structure of the
          Division, delegate authority and responsibility, establish
over-all Division
          operating policies, priorities and procedures, develop long-
and short-range
          plans and projects, allocate dollar and manpower resources
within broad
          budgetary limitations, establish optimum intramural vs.
extramural (contract
          and grant effort) balance, direct, coordinate and review all
Division
          conducted or directed activities, reviews and evaluates
progress and
          performance of these activities.  Incumbent selects, assigns
and provides
          leadership, direction and guidance to a multi-disciplined
staff to achieve
          assigned program objectives.
          QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

          This position is interdisciplinary in nature.  It may be
filled by an
          applicant from one of several occupational series and is also
announced under
          those series.
          Qualifications include both general management skills and
characteristics that
          are applicable to all SES positions AND technical or program
responsibilities
          specific to this position. Applicants must have substantive
general experience
          which provides a good basic or general knowledge of the
principles of
          organization, management and administration; and substantive
specialized
          (operating administrative or managerial) experience in a type
of work or a
          combination of functions directly related to this position.
               ECQ 1 -- LEADING CHANGE:  This core qualification
encompasses the ability
          to develop and implement an organizational vision which
integrates key
          national and program goals, priorities, values, and other
factors.  Inherent
          to it is the ability to balance change and continuity--to
continually strive
          to improve customer service and program performance within the
basic
          Government framework, to create a work environment that
encourages creative
          thinking, and to maintain focus, intensity and persistence,
even under
          adversity.
              Leadership Competencies:  Creativity & Innovation,
Continual Learning,
          External Awareness, Flexibility, Resilience, Service
Motivation, Strategic
          Thinking, Vision
              ECQ 2 -- LEADING PEOPLE:  This core qualification involves
the ability to
          design and implement strategies which maximize employee
potential and foster
          high ethical standards in meeting the organization's vision,
mission, and
          goals.
              Leadership Competencies:  Conflict Management, Leveraging
Diversity,
          Integrity/Honesty, Team Building
              ECQ 3 -- RESULTS DRIVEN:  This core qualification stresses
accountability
          and continuous improvement.  It includes the ability to make
timely and
          effective decisions and produce results through strategic
planning and the
          implementation and evaluation of programs and policies.
              Leadership Competencies:  Accountability, Customer
Service,  Decisiveness,
          Entrepreneurship, Problem Solving, Technical Credibility
              ECQ 4 --  BUSINESS ACUMEN:  This core qualification
involves the ability
          to acquire and administer human, financial, material, and
information
          resources in a manner which instills public trust and
accomplishes the
          organization's mission, and to use new technology to enhance
decision making.
              Leadership Competencies:  Financial Management, Technology
Management,
            Human Resources Management
              ECQ 5  --  BUILDING COALITIONS/COMMUNICATION:  This core
qualification
          involves the ability to explain, advocate and express facts
and ideas in a
          convincing manner, and negotiate with individuals and groups
internally and
          externally.  It also involves the ability to develop an
expansive professional
          network with other organizations, and to identify the internal
and external
          politics that impact the work of the organization.
              Leadership Competencies: Influencing/Negotiating,
Interpersonal Skills,
          Oral Communication, Partnering, Political Savvy, Written
Communication
          Executive Core Qualification Key Characteristics
              ECQ 1   LEADING CHANGE
              (a) Exercising leadership and motivating managers to
incorporate vision,
          strategic planning, and elements of quality management into
the full range of
          the organization's activities; encouraging creative thinking
and innovation;
          influencing others toward a spirit of service; designing and
implementing new
          or cutting edge programs/processes.
              (b) Identifying and integrating key issues affecting the
organization,
          including political, economic, social, technological, and
administrative
          factors.
              (c )    Understanding the roles and relationships of the
components of the
          national policy making and implementation process, including
the President,
          political appointees, Congress, the judiciary, state and local
governments,
          and interest groups; and formulating effective strategies to
balance those
          interests consistent with the business of the organization.
              (d) Being open to change and new information; managing
ambiguity; adapting
          behavior and work methods in response to new information,
changing conditions,
          or unexpected obstacles; adjusting rapidly to new situations
warranting
          attention and resolution.
              (e) Displaying a high level of initiative, effort, and
commitment to
          public service; being proactive and achievement-oriented;
being
          self-motivated; pursuing self-development; seeking feedback
from others and
          opportunities to master new knowledge.
              (f) Dealing effectively with pressure; maintaining focus
and intensity and
          remaining
                  persistent, even under adversity; recovering quickly
from setbacks.
              ECQ 2   LEADING PEOPLE
              (a) Providing leadership in setting the workforce's
expected performance
          levels commensurate with the organization's strategic
objectives; inspiring,
          motivating, and guiding others toward goal accomplishment;
empowering people
          by sharing power and authority.
              (b) Promoting quality through effective use of the
organization's
          performance management system (e.g., establishing performance
standards,
          appraising staff accomplishments using the developed
standards, and taking
          action to reward, counsel, or remove employees, as
appropriate).
              (c )    Valuing cultural diversity and other differences;
fostering an
          environment where people who are culturally diverse can work
together
          cooperatively and effectively in achieving organizational
goals.
              (d) Assessing employees' unique developmental needs and
providing
          developmental opportunities which maximize employees'
capabilities and
          contribute to the achievement of organizational goals;
developing leadership
          in others through coaching and mentoring.
              (e) Fostering commitment, team spirit, pride, trust, and
group identity;
          taking steps to prevent situations that could result in
unpleasant
          confrontations.
              (f) Resolving conflicts in a positive and constructive
manner; this
          includes promoting labor/management partnerships and dealing
effectively with
          employee relations matters, attending to morale and
organizational climate
          issues, handling administrative, labor management, and EEO
issues, and taking
          disciplinary actions when other means have not been
successful.
              ECQ 3   RESULTS DRIVEN
              (a) Understanding and appropriately applying procedures,
requirements,
          regulations, and policies related to specialized expertise;
understanding
          linkages between administrative competencies and mission
needs; keeping
          current on issues, practices, and procedures in technical
areas.
              (b) Stressing results by formulating strategic program
plans which assess
          policy/ program feasibility and include realistic short-  and
long-term goals
          and objectives.
              (c )    Exercising good judgment in structuring and
organizing work and
          setting priorities; balancing the interests of clients and
readily readjusting
          priorities to respond to customer demands.
              (d) Anticipating and identifying, diagnosing, and
consulting on potential
          or actual problem areas relating to program implementation and
goal
          achievement; selecting from alternative courses of corrective
action, and
          taking action from developed contingency plans.
              (e) Setting program standards; holding self and others
accountable for
          achieving these standards; acting decisively to modify them to
promote
          customer service and/or the quality of  programs and policies.
              (f) Identifying opportunities to develop and market new
products and
          services within or outside of the organization; taking risks
to pursue a
          recognized benefit or advantage.
              ECQ 4   BUSINESS ACUMEN
              (a) Assessing current and future staffing needs based on
organizational
          goals and budget realities.  Applying merit principles to
develop, select, and
          manage a diverse workforce.
              (b) Overseeing the allocation of financial resources;
identifying
          cost-effective approaches; establishing and assuring the use
of internal
          controls for financial systems.
              (c )    Managing the budgetary process, including
preparing and justifying
          a budget and operating the budget under organizational and
Congressional
          procedures; understanding the marketing expertise necessary to
ensure
          appropriate funding levels.
              (d) Overseeing procurement and contracting procedures and
processes.
              (e) Integrating and coordinating logistical operations.
              (f) Ensuring the efficient and cost-effective development
and utilization
          of management information systems and other technological
resources that meet
          the organization's needs; understanding the impact of
technological changes on
          the organization.
              ECQ 5   BUILDING COALITIONS/COMMUNICATION:
              (a) Representing and speaking for the organizational unit
and its work
          (e.g., presenting, explaining, selling, defining, and
negotiating) to those
          within and outside the office (e.g., agency heads and other
Government
          executives; corporate executives; Office of Management and
Budget officials;
          Congressional members and staff; the media; clientele and
professional
          groups); making clear and convincing oral presentations to
individuals and
          groups; listening effectively and clarifying information;
facilitating an open
          exchange of ideas.
              (b) Establishing and maintaining working relationships
with internal
          organizational units (e.g., other program areas and staff
support functions);
          approaching each problem situation with a clear perception of
organizational
          and political reality; using contacts to build and strengthen
internal support
          bases; getting understanding and support from higher level
management.
              (c )    Developing and enhancing alliances with external
groups (e.g.,
          other agencies or firms, state and local governments,
Congress, and clientele
          groups); engaging in cross-functional activities; finding
common ground with a
          widening range of stakeholders.
              (d) Working in groups and teams; conducting briefings and
other meetings;
          gaining cooperation from others to obtain information and
accomplish goals;
          facilitating "win-win" situations.
              (e) Considering and responding appropriately to the needs,
feelings, and
          capabilities of different people in different situations; is
tactful and
          treats others with respect.
              (f) Seeing that reports, memoranda, and other documents
reflect the
          position and work of the organization in a clear, convincing,
and organized
          manner.
              Leadership Competencies:  Influencing/Negotiating,
Interpersonal Skills,
          Oral Communication, Partnering, Political Savvy, Written
Communication
          Applicants that are currently serving under Senior Executive
Service (SES)
          career appointments or are eligible for reinstatement to the
SES, should
          include a copy of their Standard Form 50 (Notification of
Personnel Action)
          documenting their career  appointment to the SES. Graduates of
OPM-approved
          candidate development programs should provide proof of OPM
Qualifications
          Review Board certification.
          Applicants that are currently serving under Senior Executive
Service (SES)
          career appointments, eligible for reinstatement to the SES and
those who have
          successfully completed an SES candidate development program
approved by OPM
          may omit the five Mandatory Executive Core Qualifications
(ECQ's), but should
          address the Mandatory Technical and Desirable Technical
Factors.
          Public Health Service (PHS) Officers are eligible to apply.
          MANDATORY EXECUTIVE CORE QUALIFICATIONS (ECQ's) - Factors 1-5
must be
          addressed in a supplemental statement to your application.
Your supplemental
          statement should be clear and concise and show level of
accomplishment and
          degree of responsibility. The responses to these statements
allow you to
          highlight significant experience, training, and achievements
which will be of
          great assistance to the panel
          in their assessment of your qualifications. Your responses
will be used in
          conjunction with the SF-171, OF-612, or resume. Additional
sheets may be
          attached. If additional sheets are attached, be sure to
include your name and
          the announcement number. *Failure to address ECQ's may result
in your
          application being disqualified.*
          IMPORTANT! In responding to each of the ECQ statements, please
structure your
          responses in terms of specific problem or goal (CHALLENGE);
the environment in
          which you worked to tackle the problem or goal (CONTEXT); the
specific actions
          taken (ACTION); and the outcome from such actions (RESULTS).
Please provide at
          least 2 examples for each area, where practical.  An
applicant's ECQ's MUST
          NOT EXCEED 10 PAGES.  For additional guidance, applicants are
encouraged to
          visit the Office of Personnel Management's 'Guide to Senior
Executive Service
          Qualifications' located at:
http://www.opm.gov/ses/handbook.html
          ECQ 1. Leading Change.
          ECQ 2. Leading People.
          ECQ 3. Results Driven.
          ECQ 4. Business Acumen.
          ECQ 5. Building Coalition/Communications.
          MANDATORY TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS
          In addition, applicants must possess the following technical
qualifications
          which represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential
to perform the
          duties and responsibilities of the position. Failure to
address these factors
          will result in your application being disqualified.
          6.  Experience in demonstrating leadership in scientific
management of
          state-of-the-art programs in areas such as groundwater
protection research,
          cleanup of contaminated soils and groundwater, and ecosystem
restoration.
          7.  Experience which demonstrates the ability to initiate
action and follow
          through to completion the resolution of complex problems and
issues.
          8.  Experience which demonstrates the ability to communicate
complex
          environmental scientific and non-scientific programs to a
variety of
          audiences.
          9.  Experience in dealing with high-level officials in
Congress, Federal,
          State, or local government, public interest groups, private
industry, academia
          and/or the general public.
          DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
          Although not required, addressing these desirable
qualifications provides more
          information for the Rating Panel to evaluate.  Applicants will
be rated and
          ranked using only the information submitted for consideration.
Failure to
          address the desirable qualifications could result in lowering
your score.
          10.  Experience which demonstrates ability to establish and
maintain an
          effective working relationship with the national science and
technical policy
          community.
          11.  Experience in working with a variety of diverse
environmental
          organizations or health programs at local and national levels
with Federal,
          State, or local governments.
          12.  Experience in managing and directing a diverse technical
organization
          consisting of senior scientists in various disciples as well
as staff in other
          occupations.
          13.  Experience in more than one administrative/environmental
program and/or
          more than one organization or entity (e.g., headquarters and
field
          experience).
          BASIS OF RATING:

          Candidates will be rated on the basis of meeting the
qualifications criteria
          stated.  Only candidates meeting all of the mandatory
qualifications will be
          deemed eligible for further consideration.  In determining the
degree to which
          candidates possess the required or desired knowledge, skills,
and abilities,
          the rating panel will consider related experience, education,
training,
          awards, assessments and appraisals, and professional
references.
          PAY, BENEFITS, AND WORK SCHEDULE:

          All Federal employees are required by PL 104-134 to have
federal payments made
          by Direct Deposit.
          Salary for Senior Executive Service jobs will vary depending
on your
          qualifications and locality pay rates.
          Selectee will be eligible for health and life insurance,
annual (vacation) and
          sick leave and will be covered under the Federal Employees
Retirement System.
          CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

          Under Executive Order 11935, only United States citizens and
nationals
          (residents of American Samoa and Swains Island) may compete
for civil service
          jobs.  Agencies are permitted to hire noncitizens only in very
limited
          circumstances where there are no qualified citizens available
for the
          position.
          As a condition of employment, male applicants born after
December 31, 1959,
          must certify that they have registered with the Selective
Service System, or
          are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service
Law.
          A background security investigation will be required for all
new hires.
          Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful
completion of a
          background security investigation and favorable adjudication.
Failure to
          successfully meet these requirements will be grounds for
termination.
          This position requires completion of a one year probationary
period.
          Government facilities are required to provide a smoke free
environment for
          their employees.  Smoking will be permitted only in designated
areas.
          OTHER INFORMATION:

          Selectee MUST file an Executive Personnel Disclosure Report,
SF-278 form, upon
          entering the position as well as annually.
          HOW TO APPLY:

          If application is submitted by mail, it must be postmarked by
the closing date
          of the announcement to receive consideration.  Hand delivered
applications
          must be received by closing date.
          Applications mailed using government postage and/or internal
federal
          government mail systems are in violation of agency and postal
regulations and
          will not be accepted.
          Fax/electronic application materials will not be accepted.
          Application Package: All candidates are required to provide
the following
          information. Candidates who do not submit complete packages
will be eliminated
          from consideration.
          Applicants must submit FOUR (4) copies (Original & 3 copies)
of the following
          documents:
          (1) Job Application. You may use an OF-612 (Optional
Application for Federal
          Employment), the SF-171 (Application for Federal Employment)
OR a resume or
          some other format as long as it includes the information
listed below. Failure
          to include this information may result in the loss of job
consideration.
          - Announcement number and job title.
          - Your full name and mailing address, along with day and
evening telephone
          numbers.
          - Your Social Security number.
          - Country of citizenship.
          - Name and location of colleges/universities you attended.
Major field of
          study.  Semester/quarter hours completed and date of
graduation.
          - List any other qualifications or training (e.g., honors,
awards, special
          accomplishments, publications, memberships in professional
societies, etc.)
          you have which you feel makes you a good candidate for this
position.
          (2) A Supplemental Applicant Statement which address each of
the five
          executive core qualifications (ECQ's), the mandatory technical
factors and the
          desirable factors. This statement must provide examples of
your experience
          training, and accomplishments which are relevant to the
position.
          DO NOT simply repeat entries from other parts of your
application package.
          Instead, elaborate on your training, experience, and
accomplishments
          highlighting the problems involved in and the objectives of
your work, how you
          handled the problems and met work objectives, and the result
of your efforts
          (evidence of your success) and recognition received.
          Applications MUST BE POSTMARKED by the CLOSING DATE. If hand
delivered,
          applications must be received in the Office of Human Resources
and
          Organizational Services (Room 3711 Mall) by the closing date
(office closes at
          4:30pm).
          Where to mail applications:
          U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
          OARM/OHROS/Executive Resources & Special Programs Division
          Attn: SES Human Resources Staff Mailcode: 3650
          1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20460
          Contact number: (202) 260-6374
          Where to hand carry or send Federal Express/UPS packages:
          U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
          OARM/OHROS/Executive Resources & Special Programs Division
          Attn: SES Human Resources Staff
          401 M Street, S.W. Room 3711 Mall Washington, DC 20460
          For additional information about this position please
          contact:

          SES HUMAN RESOURCES TEAM
          2022606374
          Submit your application package to:

          U.S. EPA/OARM/OHROS/SES TEAM
          1200 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., N.W.
          MAILCODE:  3650
          ATTN: CGG
          WASHINGTON, DC   20460-0001
          It is the policy of the Government of the United States to
provide equal
          opportunity in Federal employment for all persons and to
prohibit
          discrimination in employment because of race, color, religion,
sex, national
          origin, handicap, age, or sexual orientation through a
continuing affirmative
          program in each executive department and agency.
          This Agency provides reasonable accommodations to applicants
with
          disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any
part of the
          application and hiring process, please notify the agency. The
decision on
          granting reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case
basis.

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 16:05:24 -0400
From:    fmoola <fmoola@IS2.DAL.CA>
Subject: RESULTS: post-clearcut eastern permanent plot studies of plant reco
ery

hello friends,

these are the preliminary results of my inquiry on permanent plot studies
(PSP)  of understory plant recovery in eastern North America. Thank you to a
l
those folks who sent me their citations. I have organized the citations into
geographical regions, and have listed the length of time the most recent
publication covered. You will notice two major trends. Firstly, most studies
cover short periods of time (< 10 years) and second, all the studies docu
ent
the successional changes following clearcutting of second-growth forest of
harvest or old-field origin. As far as I am aware, no PSP studies of plant
recovery exist following the logging of remnant old-growth eastern forest.
Please contact me if you are aware of data documenting changes in understory
richness and composition before and after clearcutting of old-growth eastern
forest. For those of you who are interested in the impacts of harvesting on
eastern old-growth flora, several retrospective-type studies exist: (Duffy a
d
Meier 1992; Meier et al. 1995; Rooney and Dress 1997;Nichols 1913;
Oosting and Reed 1944).

the citations are below. I have only listed citations of PSP studies which
document post-logging understory recovery .

cheers

faisal


1 Appalachian permanent plot studies:  (1 year pre-treatment, up 17
years post-treatment)

Response of Vascular Plant Communities to Harvest in Southern Appalachian
Mixed-Oak Forests:  Two Year Results . Bryan W. Wender, S. M. Hood, D. W.
Smith, S. M. Zedaker and David L. Loftis, 10th Biennial S. Silv. Res. Conf.,
Shreveport, LA Feb 16-18, 1999. GTR-SRS-30

Floral Diversity Following Harvest on Southern Appalachian Mixed Oak Sites
Danial K. Hammond, DW Smith, SM Zedaker, DK Wright and JW Thompson, 9th
Biennial S. Silv. Res. Conf., Clemson SC, Feb. 25-27, 1997.  GTR-SRS-20

Elliot, J.K., Boring, L.R., Swank, W.T. & Haines, B.R. 1997. Successional
changes in plant diversity and composition after clearcutting a Southern
Appalachian watershed. For. Ecol. Manage. 92: 67-85.

Boring, L.R., Monk, C.D. and Swank., W.T. 1981. Early regeneration of a
clearcut Southern Appalachian forest. Ecology. 62: 1244-1253.

2. Missouri Ozarks permanent plot studies: (three years pre-treatment, 5 yea
s
post-treatment)

Brookshire, B. L. and S. R. Shifley, eds. Proceedings of the Missouri Ozark
Forest Ecosystem Project symposium:an experimental approach to landscape
research; 1997 June 3-5; St. Louis,MO.

General Technical Report NC-193. St. Paul, MN: U. S. Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station.

3. New Hampshire permanent plot studies: (up to 60 years post-treatment)

Hornbeck, J. W., and W. B. Leak. 1992. Ecology and management of northern
hardwood forests in New England. General Technical Report NE-159, USDA Fores

Service, Radnor, PA.

Leak, W. B. 1991. Secondary forest succession in New Hampshire, USA. Forest
Ecology and Management 43:69-86.

Leak, W. B., and S. M. Filip. 1977. Thirty-eight years of group selection in
New England northern hardwoods. Journal of Forestry 75:641-643.

Leak, W. B., and M. L. Smith. 1996. Sixty years of management and natural
disturbance in a New England forested landscape. Forest Ecology and Manageme
t
81:63-73.


5. Acadian forest permanent plot studies (1 year pre-treatment, 2 years
post-treatment)

Roberts, M. 2001. Early responses of the herbaceous layer to harvesting in a
mixed deciduous-coniferous forest in New Brunswick, Canada. For. Ecol. Manag
.
(in press)

5. Hubbard Brook permanent plot studies (up to 10 years post-treatment)

Gove, J.H., Martin, C.W., Patil, G.P., Solomon, D.S. and Hornbeck, J.W. 1992

Plant species diversity on even-aged harvests at Hubbard Brook Experimental
Forest: 10 year results. Can J.For. Res. 22: 1800-1806.

Bormann, F.H., Likens, G.E. 1979. Pattern and process in a forested ecosyste
.
Springer-Verlag. New York. NY. USA

Faisal Moola,
Forest Ecologist
MSc.,Biology, Lakehead University
Ph.D. candidate, Biology, Dalhousie University

2-524 MacLaren Street
Ottawa, Ontario
K1R-5K7
CANADA
613-236-3513
fmoola@is2.dal.ca

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 12:17:26 -0800
From:    "Eric B. Peterson" <peterson@GOVMAIL.STATE.NV.US>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work

This didn't get sent right the first time I tried, but that gives me a
chance to make a couple corrections:

This doesn't give any answers, it's just an amusing way that I like to
explain the differences in perspective between lab sciences (population
or community) ecology...

Chemists like to speak of quantities in terms of moles... "lets see what
happens when we add a mole of this to a mole of that."  A mole being
Avogadro's number of molecules, or 602,000,000,000,000,000,000,000
molecules. (Yes they often work with fractions... I'll get to that later.)

Let's consider such for ecology.  Say we want to study a mole of trees.
  (note for you animal ecologists: I did consider using a particular
rodent for this example but thought the wording would get too
confusing.)  Hmmm... 602,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 trees.  I don't
want to even begin to think of the time or number of graduate students
required for the sampling.  I'll just start with the area.  Coming from
forests of the Pacific Northwest, I'll go with Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga
menziesii).  There is evidence that many of the existing old-growth
forests grew at about 50 trees per hectare, but most younger, human
initiated forests now are much denser.  I'll go with a figure of 200
trees per hectare.  The surface of land on the Earth is 1.48 X 10^8 km^2
( http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/phys_props_earth.html ), or 1.48 X 10^10 ha
(14,800,000,000 ha).  If all the land on Earth were covered by Douglas
fir at 200 trees per hectare, we could fit 2.96 X 10^12 trees on the
planet (2,960,000,000,000 trees).  At that rate, it would take just
203,378,378,378 Earths to supply 1 mole of Douglas Fir.

Yes.  Over two hundred billion Earths.  At a dollar an Earth, even Bill
Gates would have a hard time funding the research.

Of course, we don't exactly have that many Earths to work with.  So lets
see what we do have.  For chemists, it is a very small amount, but I
think I've heard of picomoles.  Covering the planet in douglas fir gives
us 1.2 X 10^-11 mol trees, or 12 picomoles.  But Douglas fir covers only
a small part of the planet, and studies of it generally involve even
smaller portions.  A pretty good sized study might cover 100 ha.  That
comes to 50000 trees  (I'm thinking studies of forest structure, or
things living in the forest where each individual tree would not be
sampled).  100 ha provides 8.3 X 10^-20 moles, or 0.083 of what would be
called 'attomoles'.  Try telling chemists that their experiments must
all be done in hundredths of attomoles and watch their expressions.

But it gets worse.  Those 100 ha of forest generally have varying slope,
aspect, elevation, precipitation, ..., ..., ..., ...  To make comparable
work for our poor chemists, we should tell them to conduct their
hundredths-of-an-attomole experiments within a sponge of varying
densities that is separating an acid from a base, resulting in complex
pH variations.

And this still hasn't addressed the time scale issue of growing those
trees and the monkey wrench it can throw into "experiments".

Considering that it would take 203 billion Earths to grow one mole of
trees at 200 per ha seems to help people to understand that ecologists
have a different perspective on experimental precision, and have
different tools, methods, and even philosophies of how to deal with it
(as many other respondents have been explaining).

Have fun,
-Eric

--
Eric Peterson, Ph.D.
Plant/Landscape Ecologist (and Lichenologist)
Nevada Natural Heritage Program
1550 E. College Pkwy Suite 145
Carson City, NV 89706-7921
Voice: (775) 687-4245  FAX: 687-1288
http://www.state.nv.us/nvnhp/

alternate email: ecomodeler@yahoo.com

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 15:12:27 -0600
From:    "D. Liane Cochran-Stafira" <cochran@SXU.EDU>
Subject: Re: experimental error tolerance in field work

Ouch - I just gave my last lectures of the semester and now my brain really
hurts!!!!!!

Thanks for the diversion! Now back to grading labs.

Liane Cochran-Stafira


At 12:17 PM 12/7/01 -0800, you wrote:
>This didn't get sent right the first time I tried, but that gives me a
>chance to make a couple corrections:
>
>This doesn't give any answers, it's just an amusing way that I like to
>explain the differences in perspective between lab sciences (population
>or community) ecology...
>
>Chemists like to speak of quantities in terms of moles... "lets see what
>happens when we add a mole of this to a mole of that."  A mole being
>Avogadro's number of molecules, or 602,000,000,000,000,000,000,000
>molecules. (Yes they often work with fractions... I'll get to that later
)
>
snip


***************************
Liane Cochran-Stafira, Ph.D.
Department of Biology
Saint Xavier University
3700 West 103rd Street
Chicago, Illinois  60655

phone:  773-298-3514
fax:    773-779-9061
email:  cochran@sxu.edu
http://www.sxu.edu/science/faculty_staff/cochran_stafira/

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 15:02:47 -0800
From:    "David S. White" <David.White@MURRAYSTATE.EDU>
Subject: Endowed Chair Position

Please post the following.


Endowed Chair of Environmental Science and Engineering/College of Science,
Engineering and Technology, Murray State University.

Full time, tenure track position to begin July 2002.  Applicants must be
recognized leaders in basic and/or applied research in aquatic
environmental systems.  Chair will have an active role in a new
undergraduate Environmental Engineering program and the Commonwealth Center
for Reservoir Research.  Qualifications:  Ph.D. in Environmental Science,
Environmental Engineering or closely related discipline and a distinguished
record of research and scholarship appropriate to the rank of
full-professor.  Some environmental engineering credential via degree or
experience required.  Responsibilities:  Develop a nationally visible and
externally funded research program that complements existing
interdisciplinary research activities in reservoir and watershed science.
Teach one upper level specialty course or seminar course per year.  Develop
an active graduate program.  Specific research area open but should be
complementary to both environmental engineering and water science.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2002. To Apply: Send statement of research
interests, current vitae, and names, addresses and phone numbers of four
references to Dr. David S. White, Center for Reservoir Research, 561 Emma
Dr., Murray, KY 42071 (Phone 270-474-2272).  Women and minorities are
encouraged to apply. Murray State University is an equal education and
employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA employer.

------------------





-------------------------------------------------------
David S. White
Professor, Biological Sciences, Murray State University
Director, Hancock Biological Station
Coordinator, Center for Reservoir Research

Address:
Hancock Biological Station
561 Emma Drive
Murray, KY 42071, USA

Phone   270/474-2272
FAX:    270/474-0120
Email: david.white@murraystate.edu
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/bio/davidswhite.htm
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/hbs/hbs.htm
http://www.mursuky.edu/qacd/cos/crr/crr-wtr.htm
------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 13:13:37 -0800
From:    Patrick Foley <patfoley@CSUS.EDU>
Subject: Lomborg's extinction rate argument

Environmentalists, skeptical and not,

I just skimmed through the Biodiversity section in Lomborg's recent book
the Skeptical Environmentalist. He appears to admit that extinction
rates may be running at something like 0.07% per half century and
believes this is a manageable problem rather than a cause for hysteria.
Lomborg does not make the easy calculation that such a rate would lead
to the loss of 13% of the world's species in one thousand years.  (that
is exp(-0.007*20) = 0.8693582). He does make the easy joke about most of
these extinctions would be insects, bacteria and viruses (an uninformed
joke, since the usual calculations are not based on viral or bacterial
Species-Area curves).


While his book does not seem overly rabid and rhetorical, I was
surprised by the superficial treatment of the biodiversity problem,
which is the problem that most environmentalists today are most troubled
by. It seems to make his book weak at the core, and I wonder why he did
not pursue the problem in more depth.

Does anyone who has read more deeply (I couldn't bring myself to send
him money for this superficial analysis), have any insight into
Lomborg's cop out on this serious issue?

Perhaps I took Lomborg too much at his word that he is an
environmentalist and a skeptic (good things), and should assume instead
that he is an opportunist with a superficial understanding of the key
issues.

Patrick Foley
patfoley@csus.edu

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 16:00:06 -0500
From:    EnviroNetwork@NATURALIST.COM
Subject: Environmental Job Openings from EnviroNetwork

Title:   Senior Scientist/ Archeologist
Company: Parsons Engineering Science, Inc.
Location: Chesterfield, Missouri
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4916


Title:   Senior Environmental Engineer
Company: Parsons Engineering Science, Inc.
Location: Denver, Colorado
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4915


Title:   Associate in Science Instruction, Environmental Sc
Company: Middlebury College,  Program in Environmental Studies
Location: Middlebury, Vermont
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4914


Title:   Environmental Education Interns
Company: YMCA Camp Colman
Location: Longbranch, Washington
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4913


Title:   Kamchatka Program Coordinator
Company: Wild Salmon Center
Location: Portland, Oregon
For more information click below:
http://www.naturalist.com/eco-jobs/index.cfm?temp=job&job=4912

------------------------------

Date:    Fri, 7 Dec 2001 15:34:10 -0500
From:    John Graham <jgraham@BERRY.EDU>
Subject: Student Grant Announcement

Research Grant Announcement

Coosa Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited is offering a research grant of
up to $2,000 to provide partial financial support for undergraduate
and graduate research in cold-water fisheries biology, fisheries
management, stream ecology, tail-water fisheries, and water quality.
Grant applications are judged on a competitive basis, considering the
qualifications of the applicant, the objectives of the research
proposal, and
the design of the research project.

Grants are awarded only to individuals.  Eligible individuals include
undergraduate or graduate students in fisheries biology, fisheries
management, and biological or environmental science.  There are no
restrictions with regard to nationality, gender, age, or Trout Unlimited
membership.

For more information and application forms, contact John H. Graham at
jgraham@berry.edu <mailto:jgraham@berry.edu>
Deadline for applications is 1 March 2002.

This grant is made possible by the Coosa Valley Chapter of Trout
Unlimited's Annual Chili Cookoff,
<http://www.tuchilicookoff.org>


John H. Graham
Department of Biology
490446 Berry College
Mount Berry, GA  30149-0446

jgraham@berry.edu <mailto:jgraham@berry.edu>
office: (706)-290-2671
fax: (706)-238-7855

------------------------------

Date:    Sat, 8 Dec 2001 10:33:15 +1100
From:    "Vr. Richard Bejsak-Colloredo-Mansfeld" <ricardo@ANS.COM.AU>
Subject: Re: [Nature Potpourri] Digest Number 147

Dear colleagues,

Our website about beetles / coleoptera on www.coleoptera.org has been
updated


You can look on earth from 100's different satellites in real time  in
section <other useful things> <Locality search>
You can search fir any locality in section <FAQ>
You can download special program for naturalists and webmasters in section
<software house>
there is Free delta program,  true font (male female symbols) and FREE very
good ANTIVIRUS PROGRAM, free font, graphic, bullets in section <Intereste

for internet?>
You can search Organism names, Journal Index etc. in section <Other usefu

things> <For taxonomists>

We have updated Entomologists glossary on front/index page.

and front index page you can subscribe free newsletter/ discussion forum for
anyone who is interested for beetles / coleoptera.

and more..

Regards

Keep care and be of good cheer.

Regards

(name) Vratislav Richard Eugene Maria John Baptist
(surname) of Bejsak (Bayshark)-Colloredo-Mansfeld

website: http://www.coleoptera.org
listserver: coleoptera on www.egroup.com/group/coleoptera/info.html
Coleoptera - Australia, Tenebrionidae of World
(incl. Lagriinae, Alleculinae)

University of Sydney
The Wentworth Bldg., Box 62
NSW 2006
AUSTRALIA
phone  :  +61 414 540 465
email: vratislav@bigfoot.com
           ricardo@ans.com.au
           (before Ricardo@compuserve.com
             and    ricardo@login.cz )

Only after the last tree has been cut down,
only after the last river has been poisoned,
only after the last fish has been caught,
only then will you find that money can not be eaten.'
        CREE INDIAN PROPHECY.

Incoming  mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

------------------------------

End of ECOLOG-L Digest - 6 Dec 2001 to 7 Dec 2001 (#2001-26)
************************************************************
ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ

Archive files of THIS month

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.


More about RUPANTAR

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