[ECOLOG-L] Good-bye ESA, a farewell photo gallery
After 21 years working for the Ecological Society of America, first as communications officer and then as director of public affairs, I feel like I've kind of grown up with ESA. During my time here, I got to see ESA go from a mostly volunteer-run organization to one with a professional staff of thirty. The Society opened a headquarters office in Washington, DC and learned what goes into effectively managing a mid-size scientific organization. It launched its Issues in Ecology series and the journals Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment and Ecosphere and started a blog. It worked to increase human diversity in our field through its award-winning SEEDS program. And members sought out more opportunities to share ecological science beyond our community. I am deeply grateful to our members and my colleagues for the wealth of experiences and happy memories I'm taking with me. Hope you enjoy some of my favorites in this photo gallery: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-and-society/good-bye-esa-a-farewell-photo-gallery/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Fifth World Conference on Ecological Restoration
Register for SER's 5th World Conference on Ecological Restoration! The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) invites ESA members to join them at their 5th World Conference on Ecological Restoration in Madison, Wisconsin, October 6-11, 2013. Online registration is open until September 27th. www.ser2013.org 10% off Registration from ESA Members! Use code ESA10 to get your discount at the end of your registration form. The SER2013 World Conference on Ecological Restoration: Reflections on the Past, Directions for the Future will bring together more than 1,200 delegates from around the world interested in the science and practice of ecological restoration as it relates to natural resource management, climate change responses, biodiversity conservation, local and indigenous communities, environmental policy and sustainable livelihoods. Check out the Schedule at a Glance The Schedule at a Glance is now available on the conference website. The four-day scientific program includes more than 140 scientific sessions with a total of nearly 700 oral presentations. SER is also expecting 185 poster presentations and will have a dedicated poster session on Tuesday evening, October 8. See the schedule for details. Sign Up for a Pre-Conference Training Course SER is offering a number of exciting pre-conference training courses. These courses cover topics ranging from restoration of pollinator habitat, invasive species, restoration project planning, introduction to statistical analysis, ecological site descriptions, and application of quality control methods. All courses run for one full day and have a cost of $125. Stick Around for a Post Conference Field Trip Attendees and their partners can also sign up for one of several post-conference field trips to be offered on Friday, October 11. A knowledgeable team of local hosts has organized an exciting slate of one-day trips to a number of restoration sites and natural areas throughout southern Wisconsin. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the region's unique landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Accommodation SER has a number of recommended hotels conveniently located near the conference center. Contact the hotel to see about discounted hotel rooms. Register today: www.ser2013.org
[ECOLOG-L] USGS scientist named Ecological Society of America president
For immediate release: Monday, 9 September 2013 USGS scientist named Ecological Society of America president Jill Baron, an ecosystem ecologist with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and a senior research ecologist with Colorado State University's Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, has been named President of the Ecological Society of America (ESA), the world's largest organization of professional ecologists. As president, Baron now chairs ESA's governing board, which lays out the vision for overall goals and objectives for the Society. Ecologists explore the organisms and processes that make up the living world, but we also evaluate the environmental and societal consequences of human activities, said Baron. For many of us, this knowledge drives us to seek solutions and promote better stewardship of our natural resources. As well we should: the funding that supports our work comes with the expectation that we will give back to the public that subsidizes us; this is something I, as a civil servant, am keenly aware of. The Ecological Society of America is a tremendously effective vehicle for discharging our responsibility to society. ESA's rich portfolio of activities, from its influential journals, public affairs and communication activities, education, science office, and vibrant meetings, reflect how the Society both promotes the science and its application. It is an honor and a privilege for me to help lead these tasks. Baron is co-Director of the John Wesley Powell Center for Earth System Science Analysis and Syntheisis, a center founded to promote the emergence of new knowledge through interdisciplinary collaboration. Baron's own research has helped inform policy related to air-quality issues in the state of Colorado. For over three decades, she has researched the effects of atmospheric deposition and climate change on Rocky mountain lakes, forests, and soils. Her work has garnered recognition from a swath of federal agencies. Most recently, she was recognized with two National Park Service awards: the 2012 Intermountain Region Regional Director's Natural Resource Award and the 2011 Rocky Mountain National Park Stewardship Award. She was also honored with Department of Interior Meritorious Service Award in 2002. Baron was editor of ESA's Issues in Ecology for several years and previously served as Member at Large on ESA's governing board. Baron was lead author of the US Climate Change Science Program report on Climate Change Adaption Options for National Parks, and a contributor to the National Climate Assessment. She has served on the Department of Interior's Climate Change Task Force and was part of the Science Strategy Team that structured the scientific direction of the USGS. She has authored over 140 publications and edited two books, including Rocky Mountain Futures, an ecological perspective that addresses past, present, and future human-environment interactions. The Ecological Society of America is the world's largest community of professional ecologists and the trusted source of ecological knowledge. ESA is committed to advancing the understanding of life on Earth. The 10,000 member Society publishes five journals, convenes an annual scientific conference, and broadly shares ecological information through policy and media outreach and education initiatives. Visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org or find experts in ecological science at http://www.esa.org/pao/rrt/.
[ECOLOG-L] Scientists, practitioners, religious communities urge collaborative action to save our planet
Scientists, practitioners, religious communities urge collaborative action to save our planet Big global questions face us, among them: How will we feed a growing global population without ruining the soil and polluting freshwater? Or meet our burgeoning energy demands while curbing the greenhouse gas emissions that fuel rising sea levels, flooding, drought, disease and wildfire? And what can we do to stem the extinction of thousands of other species that share the planet with us? These daunting environmental problems are not only in the domain of ecologists and environmental scientists. Other natural scientists, social, behavioral and economic researchers, urban designers and planners, and religious groups are also grappling with ways to turn around our sobering collective trajectory. And, in what marks a significant shift, ecologists are recognizing that generating and distributing scientific data is not enough. They see the need to embrace the social and ethical dimensions of scientific practice and to join with a wide variety of allies to solve these real-world problems. September's Special Issue of Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment brings together the perspectives of anthropologists, architects, city planners, ecologists, engineers, ranchers, members of religious communities and others on ways to foster Earth Stewardship-defined here as taking action to sustain life in a rapidly changing world. Anthropologist Laura Ogden and colleagues highlight socio-ecological drivers of global change that create patterns of environmental injustice and economic inequalities. Architect Frederick Steiner and colleagues address the need to make urban areas more resilient to natural disasters and they highlight the potential of green infrastructure. Alex Felson et al. offer four practical examples that emphasize interactions between urban designers and ecologists. Psychologist Susan Clayton and co-authors review ways to encourage people to change a behavior that causes unintended damage. For example, old fishing lines that wash into the sea can entangle marine mammals, often leading to severe injury or death. A successful initiative invites anglers to dispose of their unwanted fishing tackle in specially marked bins placed in popular fishing areas. The relative ease of performing this behavior as well as the large potential audience for the intervention makes it worth targeting, say the authors. Gregory Hitzhusen and Mary Tucker explore the potential of religion to advance Earth Stewardship. Religions play a central role in formulating worldviews that orient humans to the natural world and in articulating ethics that guide human behavior, say the authors. Often overlooked and undervalued, rangelands are subject to degradation, conversion to other land uses and fragmentation worldwide. Noting that rangelands support the livelihoods of some 1 billion people and provide the animal protein, water and other resources to twice as many, Nathan Sayre and co-authors argue that rangelands are in dire need of Earth Stewardship. The next generation of scientists, Ricardo Colon-Rivera and colleagues, bring attention to the desire of an increasing number of graduate students in science fields to integrate civic concerns with their research. This Frontiers Special Issue and the workshop on the ecological dimensions of Earth Stewardship were generously funded by the National Science Foundation. The September issue is open access, as are all Frontiers Special Issues and may be accessed at: http://www.esajournals.org/toc/fron/11/7 ESA's press release may be viewed at: http://www.esa.org/esa/?p=9142 Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Farm bill action alert
The Ecological Society of America encourages members to contact their representatives to sustain several important conservation programs as a new farm bill is authorized. The Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-234) expired in 2012. Congress and the White House enacted a temporary extension of most farm bill programs, which expire Sept. 30. The extension did not include conservation programs. While the Senate has passed legislation to reauthorize a number of critical environmental programs, the House-passed alternative either severely curtails or zeroes out funding for these programs. If this concerns you, please contact your Members of Congress and Senators requesting they maintain critical conservation provisions included in the Senate bill, including: Fund the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Reserve Program. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program gives financial assistance to farmers who implement conservation practices that preserve natural resources and ecosystems and save energy. The Conservation Reserve Program is a rental-payment program that provides farmers with incentives to remove environmentally-sensitive land from agricultural production to preserve water, soil quality and wildlife habitat. Include the Senate bill's conservation compliance provisions. Unlike the House bill, the Senate bill includes a provision requiring that farmers comply with basic conservation requirements in order to receive federal subsidies for crop insurance. Include the Senate bill's bipartisan sodsaver provision. The sodsaver provision was originally added at the committee level as an amendment by Sens. John Thune (R-SD), Mike Johanns (R-NE) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). The provision preserves native prairie through various subsidy reduction measures intended to discourage farmers from agricultural production on native grasslands. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, the reforms in the Senate farm bill cut $12.9 billion in spending over the next 10 years. The above measures help farmers, sustain valuable agricultural production, create wildlife habitat and improve the water quality in our rural communities and beyond. To contact your US representative, click here: http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/ To contact your US Senator, click here: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/general/one_item_and_teasers/contacting.htm
[ECOLOG-L] Abstracts invited for conference on Soil's Role in Restoring Ecosystem Services
The Ecological Society of America, American Geophysical Union, and US Geological Survey are co-sponsors of the upcoming Soil Science Society of America ecosystems services conference--abstracts are now being invited and are due by 12/1/2013. Purpose of Conference: Soils provide provisioning and regulating ecosystem services relevant to grand challenge areas of 1) climate change adaptation and mitigation, 2) food and energy security, 3) water protection, 4) biotechnology for human health, 5) ecological sustainability, and 6) slowing of desertification. The purposes of this conference will be to evaluate knowledge strengths and gaps, encourage cross-disciplinary synergies to accelerate new learning, and prioritize research needs. More info is available here: https://www.soils.org/meetings/specialized/ecosystem-services Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] What's the Future of Ecologist-Communicators?
Below, is an excerpt from an EcoTone guest post by Holly Menninger, Director of Public Science for Your Wild Life at NC State University, in which she calls for greater recognition of science communicators within ESA's membership Read the complete post here: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-and-society/whats-the-future-of-ecologist-communicators/ I've been attending the ESA Annual Meeting since I was an incoming graduate student in 2000. More so than any time in the last 13 years, this year's meeting in Minneapolis featured a sustained waving of rally caps in support of ecologists participating in public engagement, communication and policy, greater than I've ever witnessed before. In fact, I wildly swung my own rally cap during an earlier Ignite session about bridging the gap between basic and applied science - I spoke passionately about the lessons we've gleaned from building a successful science outreach and communication program about biodiversity. I suggested approaches that could enhance other scientists' efforts to connect their science to the public, as required for addressing our planet's grand environmental challenges. Continuing the drumbeat at the Future of Ecology session, there was a call for ecologists to learn how to communicate and to recognize that communication is not a one-way transfer of information. Agreed, I thought. But then, as I surveyed the room full of nodding heads, I felt something powerful well up in me. It wasn't anger. It wasn't heartburn (although I did have Mexican food for lunch). It was more like that red-faced indignant feeling one gets when one is either deliberately or inadvertently ignored. I felt ignored because I sensed that many in the room (and those avidly live-tweeting the session) didn't realize or recognize the awesome pool of communications and outreach talent already within ESA's membership. The rallying calls for increased and improved science communication seemed aimed squarely at the Society's mid-to-late career academic scientist crowd, a crowd that has long needed arm-twisting and cajoling to engage the public, not a group that had already embraced public engagement as a core value. Whether by choice (as was my case) or circumstance (surely, you've seen the statistics about the availability of academic jobs), there are MANY of us who've carved out meaningful careers where we engage, communicate and reach out to diverse public audiences EVERYDAY. Some, like me, work largely in informal and formal science education - in museums and science centers, in classrooms, on the printed page or airwaves, and online. Others have applied their talents to addressing science policy issues at the federal, state, and local levels. Still others are based at non-governmental organizations or in Cooperative Extension, moving the outcomes of ecological research directly into the hands of stakeholders and resource managers. We all engage, communicate and reach out to public audiences in a professional capacity as scientist-communicators. And we're good at it. We have important skills and expertise that we are willing and excited to share with the members of our professional society - we would be the first to respond to a call to action if we felt that there was a seat at the table for us. Read more on ESA's EcoTone blog: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-and-society/whats-the-future-of-ecologist-communicators/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Using fire to manage fire-prone regions around the world
The Ecological Society of America's first online-only Special Issue of Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment showcases prescribed burns around the globe, some of them drawing on historical practices to manage forests and grasslands in fire-prone regions. The Online Special Issue looks at fire practices in the United States, Australia, southern Europe, South Africa and South America. One review article focuses on the cooperative efforts of US ranchers in the Great Plains using fire to beat back juniper encroachment on native grasslands. Another features traditional Aboriginal approaches to minimize greenhouse-gas emissions from savanna fires in northern Australia. In South America, traditional Mayan practices to produce forest gardens are applied to create spaces within the forest for different kinds of crops while contributing to soil fertility and sustaining wildlife. And in southern Europe, a significant challenge is contending with stringent laws that create obstacles for using managed burns to decrease wildfire risk and manage habitats for grazing and wildlife. The August online-only issue of Frontiers is open access, as are all Frontiers Special Issues. Prescribed burning in fire-prone landscapes may be viewed at: http://www.esajournals.org/toc/fron/11/s1 Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Minnesota Energy Environment Senior Advisor Ellen Anderson to receive ESA Regional Policy Award
Minnesota Energy Environment Senior Advisor Ellen Anderson to receive ESA Regional Policy Award On Sunday, August 4, 2013, the Ecological Society of America (ESA) will present its sixth annual Regional Policy Award to Ellen Anderson, Energy and Environment Senior Advisor to Minnesota's Governor Dayton, during the Society's conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The ESA award recognizes an elected or appointed local policymaker who has an outstanding record of informing policy decisions with ecological science. Ellen Anderson exemplifies leadership in promoting sustainability said ESA President Scott Collins. As a Minnesota state senator she championed bills to foster renewable energy, clean water and parks and in her current capacity she's working to advance Minnesota's environmental quality initiatives. She sets a high standard for policy makers everywhere. Anderson served in the Minnesota Senate for eighteen years, where she was the chief author of the 25 percent by 2025 legislation, which requires Minnesota energy companies to generate at least 25 percent of their energy from renewable sources by the year 2025. She also co-authored numerous bills related to energy, natural areas, and many other environmental issues. Since February 2012, Anderson has served as senior advisor on energy and environment to Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton. Anderson works on clean energy, environmental policy issues, and public outreach for numerous state agencies and the Governor. Sustainability is the headliner of our time, said Anderson. I feel incredibly honored to receive this award from the Ecological Society of America whose members have spearheaded and helped shape our thinking about how we manage our ecosystems-from agricultural to urban-to sustain them for future generations. ESA, which holds its Annual Meeting in a different city each year, established its Regional Policy Award in 2008 to recognize an elected or appointed local policymaker who has integrated environmental science into policy initiatives that foster more sustainable communities. Past recipients of the ESA award are Ken Bierly, with the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, Karen Hixon, with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, Braddock, Pennsylvania Mayor John Fetterman, Senator Tom Udall of New Mexico and former Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle. ESA President Collins will present Anderson with the 2013 ESA Regional Policy Award at the start of the Opening Plenary on Sunday, August 4 at 5 PM in the auditorium of the Minneapolis Convention Center. ESA's conference is expected to draw 3,000 scientists, educators, and policymakers from across the nation and around the world. The press release is online at: http://www.esa.org/esa/?p=8495 Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] ESA’s Diversity Program receives NSF Award
ESA’s Diversity Program receives NSF Award The Ecological Society of America’s (ESA) long-standing program to diversify the field of ecology recently got another boost from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The federal research agency awarded ESA a grant of $183,158 to support the Society’s “Diverse People for a Diverse Science” project. Not only will the funding go to key existing program components, such as research fellowships, it will also fund an independent evaluation of SEEDS. “As a longtime SEEDS supporter and current advisory board member, I've always been convinced we could make a real difference for ESA and the field of ecology by doing all we can to promote diversity within our profession,” said Mark Brunson, professor at Utah State University. “So as a researcher, I'm excited that now with this grant we'll be able to get a scientifically rigorous, expert assessment of what we're doing so we can increase our momentum toward our diversity goals.” The professional evaluation will assess SEEDS program activities between 2002 and 2012, documenting outcomes, effectiveness of program components and identifying opportunities to strengthen the program. Among other questions, it will explore to what extent SEEDS has increased participants’ knowledge about ecology, pathways to enter the field and increased engagement within ESA and in community-based activities. Evaluators will also look at the ways in which SEEDS has influenced the many ESA members who have served as student mentors over the years. The NSF grant will also allow ESA to initiate two new regional field trips to connect students with opportunities and researchers in their own communities. The mission of SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability) is to diversify and advance the ecology profession through opportunities that stimulate and nurture the interest of underrepresented students to participate, and to lead in ecology. Focused mainly at the undergraduate level—with extension services for communities, high schools, graduate students, and international collaborations—the program envisions wide representation in the ecology field. Key activities include Undergraduate Research Fellowships, leadership development, travel awards to ESA’s Annual Meeting and a national field trip. Jeramie Strickland, who also serves on the SEEDS Advisory Board, is an alum of the program. Now a wildlife biologist for the Fish Wildlife Service, Strickland credits SEEDS for helping him on the path to his chosen career. “SEEDS has made significant progress in bringing diversity into ecology by providing professional development and mentoring opportunities for underserved students. Working with SEEDS helped me get my foot in the door for graduate school and with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.” Formative Evaluation Research Associates (FERA) is conducting the SEEDS program evaluation. FERA is a woman-owned firm with experience evaluating NSF-supported and other science education programs focused on engaging underrepresented groups. The Ecological Society of America is the largest professional organization for ecologists and environmental scientists in the world. The Society’s 10,000 members work to advance our understanding of life on Earth, directly relevant to environmental issues such energy and food production, natural resource management, and emerging diseases. ESA works to broadly share ecological information through activities that include policy and media outreach, education and diversity initiatives and projects that link the ecological research and management communities and help integrate ecological science into decision-making. The Society also organizes scientific conferences and publishes high-impact journals. Visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org.
[ECOLOG-L] Ecology of zoonotic diseases
Earlier this week, the Ecological Society of America held a congressional briefing on the ecology of zoonotic diseases. Below is an excerpt from ESA's blog: Ecology of zoonotic diseases Figuring out the what, where and when of disease outbreaks Plague, Lyme disease, Hantavirus, West Nile Virus-these bacteria and viruses are zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to people from animals like ticks, mosquitoes and rodents and were the subject of a recent Ecological Society of America (ESA) congressional briefing. Disease transmission is an environmental issue--understanding the ecological dynamics at play is crucial. Ecology can help sleuth out the source of new diseases and help predict where and when new outbreaks are likely to occur. That was a key message Robert Parmenter and Gregory Glass had for the congressional, federal agency and scientific society staff attending ESA's briefing on April 23, 2013. Parmenter directs the Scientific Services Division of the US Department of Agriculture's Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico. He has years of experience with zoonoses, especially plague and Hantavirus. Glass is a professor at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and directs the Global Biological Threat Reduction Program of the Southern Research Institute. His work has included a focus on Lyme disease and Anthrax, along with hantaviruses. Between the two of them, Parmenter and Glass painted a vivid picture of the dynamics of these diseases and how collaborations between ecological and medical research can solve disease mysteries, such as that of the first hantavirus outbreak in the Four Corners region of the US. In May of 1993, people were coming down with flu-like symptoms that rapidly filled their lungs with fluid, killing some of them. Others just as quickly recovered. A sense of panic gripped the area and scientists from the Centers for Disease Control arrived and, within 19 days, identified the disease as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome for which there is neither a vaccine nor a cure. But where had it come from and why now? Read more on EcoTone: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-and-society/ecology-of-zoonotic-diseases/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Congressmen lauded for their commitment to biological research
Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition press release: REPRESENTATIVES LIPINSKI, REICHERT RECEIVE BESC AWARD Congressmen lauded for their commitment to biological research Washington, DC-Representatives Daniel Lipinski (D-Illinois) and Dave Reichert (R-Washington) are the recipients of the 2013 Biological and Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC) Congressional Leadership Award. The award is given to recognize congressional leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting public policy that advances the nation's scientific research enterprise. We are fortunate to have two such strong supporters of the natural sciences in Congress, said Nadine Lymn, co-chair of BESC and director of public affairs for the Ecological Society of America. Representatives Lipinski and Reichert have repeatedly demonstrated that they value the contributions of biology and other sciences to society and believe that sustaining the nation's research and technology enterprise is a worthy investment. Lipinski is the Ranking Member on the House Subcommittee on Research. He sponsored the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2010, which authorized increased funding for the National Science Foundation; the legislation became part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act, which was signed into law in 2011. Lipinski is a vocal supporter of the use of prizes to stimulate innovation, and successfully amended U.S. law to allow federal agencies to award cash prizes to innovators. The congressman is also a co-chair of the House Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics Education Caucus, and a member of the Congressional Research and Development Caucus. Reichert has worked actively to conserve the wild areas of Washington state and the nation. A former member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, he sponsored a resolution that recognized the contributions of female scientists. Reichert was one of only 17 House Republicans to support the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010. He is co-chair of the National Parks Caucus and National Landscape Conservation Caucus, and a member of the Congressional Biomedical Research Caucus and Wild Salmon Caucus. Reichert is chair of the Human Resources Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee. Representatives Lipinski and Reichert are steadfast advocates for scientific research, particularly at the National Science Foundation, said BESC co-chair Robert Gropp, director of public policy at the American Institute of Biological Sciences. They both appreciate that research drives innovation, contributes to the solution of complex problems, and will help drive new economic growth. The Biological and Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC) is an alliance of organizations united by a concern for every aspect of the biology of the natural world, from agricultural systems to zoology. BESC supports the goal of increasing the nation's investment in the non-medical biological sciences across all federal agencies including the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Department of Energy, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Please visit www.esa.org/besc.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA 2012 Annual Report online
New ESA initiatives for young ecologists, honorific fellowships for outstanding members, new reports on landscape connectivity and the risks of excess nitrogen in the environment, urban ecology at the US Science Engineering Festival, development of conservation targets at Emerging Issues conference and exciting projects fostering ecological education were among the highlights of 2012 for ESA and its members. ESA's 2012 Annual Report is available here: http://www.esa.org/esa/?page_id=491 Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Biodiversity concepts survey
Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a methodology used for assessing the environmental impacts associated with products throughout their lifecycle. Many impacts are accounted for within the LCA framework, such as air water pollutants and global warming. However, biodiversity impacts have received little attention. For example, LCAs on Palm Oil plantations in the tropics might indicate there are positive greenhouse outcomes because of biofuel production, but at present LCA does not have a method to incorporate potential biodiversity impacts associated with the loss of tropical forest. Forest and Wood Products Australia are funding a project team including ecologists and LCA practitioners from New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), University of Wollongong and University of Tasmania, to test a semi-quantitative methodology for estimating biodiversity impacts for inclusion in LCA. One of the key steps is identifying the factors and concepts that should be included in estimating biodiversity impacts. We are seeking the input of ecologists with a short survey, which will take no more than 5 - 10 minutes to complete. Any answers you provide are completely anonymous. If you would like to find out more information about this project please contact Dr Perpetua Turner (perpetua.tur...@utas.edu.au). To start the survey please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Biodiversity_in_LCA
[ECOLOG-L] Resurrection Ecology?
Maybe it's time to coin a new term, said Stanley Temple a long-time conservation biologist who played key roles in preventing species such as the Peregrine Falcon and Whooping Crane from going extinct. We were already well into the 'Why Why Not' portion of TEDxDeExtinction on Friday, March 15, and it was clear that Temple, the man who occupied Aldo Leopold's chair at the University of Wisconsin for 32 years, has deep reservations about reversing extinction through genetic engineering. But he also clearly believes that conservation biologists need to be part of developments as the quest to revive extinct species inevitably moves forward. Thus his proposed new term: Resurrection Ecology. After listening to 6 hours of TEDxDeExtinction presentations last Friday, my head was spinning with gripping stories of charismatic and extinct species such as the Thylacine (a meat-eating marsupial-its name means dog-headed, pouched one), the biological, ethical and political dilemmas of bringing back species, and descriptions of the genetic techniques underway to make this is a reality. Several themes threaded throughout the event. Here are two of them that are closely intertwined: 1. A strong concern that revival of extinct species could make current efforts to save endangered species even harder, and 2. The potential for gene technology to help save today's endangered species. To the first theme: We've got our hands full trying to save what's still here now, said Stanley Temple. Temple, a professor emeritus at the University of Wisconsin, is worried that de-extinction efforts could destabilize already difficult conservation efforts. We already have a tendency to rely on technological fixes, he said. If extinction isn't forever, then the attitude could become, 'let it go extinct, we can always bring it back later.' To read the rest of this EcoTone post see: http://www.esa.org/esablog/research/conservation/reviving-extinct-genetic-diversity-resurrection-ecology/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Diana Wall is 2013 Tyler Environmental Prize winner
ESA member and past president Diana Wall is the winner of the 2013 Tyler Environmental Prize: Antarctic Soil Researcher Awarded Prestigious 2013 Tyler Environmental Prize Diana H. Wall, PhD, recognized for her work on the important role of soil biodiversity in climate change, ecosystems and human life Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary Los Angeles, CA (March 17, 2013) - The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement today named Diana H. Wall, PhD, of Colorado State University the recipient of the 2013 Tyler Prize for her research documenting and exploring the complex and fragile soil ecosystem. Her research - extending from more than 20 years in Antarctica's deserts, to the plains of Kansas and New York City's Central Park - has explored the dynamics of species like nematodes, small worm-like organisms, living in the soil and their impact on life above ground. Wall's work in the Antarctic continues to demonstrate the critical links between climate change and soil. Wall's research has shown that changes in climate can fundamentally alter the ecology of soil life. This, in turn, changes the way that soil is able to transfer and store carbon from sources such as plant roots and decaying organic matter. When soil holds more organic carbon, less carbon dioxide, a driver of climate change is released into the atmosphere. This cycle of plant uptake and breakdown of carbon impacts the rate of climate change. I hope winning the Tyler Prize helps bring awareness that soil is more than dirt that feeds our crops, it also plays a major role in storing carbon globally, said Wall, a University Distinguished Professor, Professor of Biology, and Director of the School of Global Environmental Sustainability. We've learned that there is an astonishing amount of life hidden underground that is critical to sustaining our planet. It is an amazing honor to receive this prestigious award and have the research results generated by my lab, students and collaborators, recognized in this way. Since its inception 40 years ago as one of the world's first international environmental awards, the Tyler Prize has been the premier award for environmental science, environmental health and energy. The complete press release is available here: http://www.tylerprize.usc.edu/press/pr2013.html Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] EIC sought for new ESA-ESC journal
EIC sought for new ESA-ESC journal The Ecological Society of America (ESA) and the Ecological Society of China (ESC) seek a visionary individual to serve as the founding Editor-in-Chief (EiC) for a new online only, open access publication that will be jointly published by ESA and ESC. The new journal will focus on research applying the principles and concepts of ecology to support sustainable development, especially in regions undergoing rapid anthropogenic change. The journal will encourage submissions on multi-scale research, the application of integrative and interdisciplinary approaches, and international collaborations between scientists from industrialized and industrializing countries. The EiC will serve as the leader of the new journal, determine its editorial standards and content, and oversee an Editorial Board. He/she will be actively involved in appointing associate editors and in commissioning articles and other material, especially in the lead up to the launch and in the early years of the publication. He/she should have worked in both China and the US and should be familiar with academia, journals, and publishing practices in both countries. Ideally the EiC shall have experience in international research collaborations in other countries in addition to China and the US. He/she must be able to successfully manage international communications with the Editorial Board and advisors, as well as with production and editorial staff in both the US and China. Further information about this position can be found at: http://www.esa.org/esa/?page_id=2410 Email a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references to: EiC Search, e...@esa.org Review of applications will begin at the end of April 2013.
[ECOLOG-L] Field stations and marine labs join forces to tackle national environmental challenges
Field stations and marine labs join forces to tackle national environmental challenges March 18, 2013 - A world threatened by extreme weather, biodiversity loss, emerging disease and increasing uncertainty needs the scientific capacity to face those challenges. Natural laboratories around the country, which have been placing researchers on the front lines of understanding and managing environmental change for a century, form the building blocks of that capacity. Today the Organization of Biological Field Stations and National Association of Marine Laboratories release a report showing how scientists in communities across the continent respond to emerging questions in flexible and nimble ways, and are poised to work together to contribute to global solutions. You can download the report here: http://www.obfs.org/assets/docs/fsml_final_report.pdf (5.1 MB) Field stations and marine labs (FSMLs) are the primary places scientists go to study environmental processes in their natural context, and as such they harbor the knowledge of the past that we need to predict the future. They host thousands of individual researchers at hundreds of locations, and are the birthplace of many of the innovations and discoveries that drive environmental science today. Recent large-scale initiatives, such as the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) and the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI), as well as the longer-running Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) network, depend on existing FSML infrastructure-and the novel insights these new observatories generate will stimulate complementary research at many more field stations and marine labs. However, only a small fraction of FSMLs participates in these broader-scale scientific initiatives. NEON and LTER represent 10% of the available long-term, place-based, multiple-investigator environmental research sites. The report, based on a national workshop and survey and on input from the broader scientific community, recommends creating a Network Center to catalyze broader-scale science and to facilitate participation in coordinated environmental efforts. For example, a stronger network of FSMLs could contribute to evolving national and international programs such as the sustained National Climate Assessment or the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network. Field stations and marine labs have the flexibility and the logistical and intellectual capacity to support novel experimental approaches across tremendous ecological diversity. Collectively, they represent billions of dollars of investment in research infrastructure including sites (forests, fields and waterfronts) and tools (sensors, ships and cyberinfrastructure), and have trained generations of environmental scientists. This report is a first step in making sure the nation's investment in field stations and marine labs continues to meet the dynamic and changing needs of scientists, students, and the public they serve. URL: http://www.obfs.org/fsml-future CONTACT: Ian Billick, 970-349-6669, direc...@rmbl.org The National Association of Marine Laboratories (NAML), organized in the late 1980's, is a nonprofit organization of over 120 members employing more than 10,000 scientists, engineers, and professionals and representing marine and Great Lakes laboratories stretching from Guam to Bermuda and Alaska to Puerto Rico. The member institutions of the National Association of Marine Labs work together to improve the quality and effectiveness of ocean, coastal and Great Lakes research, education and outreach. Through these unique national and regional networks, NAML encourages ecosystem-based management, wise local land management and the understanding and protection of natural resources. The Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that represents field stations throughout the world. The mission of OBFS is to help member stations increase their effectiveness in supporting critical research, education, and outreach programs. OBFS pursues this goal in a manner that maximizes diversity, inclusiveness, sustainability, and transparency.
[ECOLOG-L] Inaugural Life Discovery Conference
Organized by a consortium of four scientific societies with a collective membership of nearly 20,000, the inaugural Life Discovery Conference will take place at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul, from March 15-16, 2013. The conference is part of the consortium's Digital Resource Discovery project, led by Teresa Mourad, Director of Education and Diversity Programs at the Ecological Society of America. This will really be a small working conference, said Jeff Corney, conference local host and managing director of the Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve. It's structured to promote the use of digital resources and new technologies, publish classroom-friendly resources in LifeDiscoveryEd Digital Library and emphasize research-rich biology education. Peer working groups will give educators feedback on lesson plans or activities during education share fair roundtables held during the conference. Our vision is to offer a session format where educators and scientists can present their digital resources to their peers for feedback by submitting a draft entry into the digital library, explains Corney. We hope that in this manner, they will quickly understand the issues for high quality education and incorporate suggestions and ideas by their peers. Another goal envisioned by the partnering organizations is to encourage communities of practice. We really want to foster greater interaction between educators and scientists, said Thomas Meagher, Conference Planning Chair and professor at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. These groups have so much to learn from each other and together can greatly enhance our mutual desire for greater hands-on, data-driven biology in the classrooms. Read more on ESA's EcoTone blog: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecologist-2/ecology-education/educators-scientists-to-swap-ideas-for-a-robust-biology-classroom/ More info about the conference: http://www.esa.org/ldc/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202) 833-8773 x205 https://twitter.com/esa_org https://www.facebook.com/esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] Ecological Society of America voices concern over US fiscal situation
Ecological Society of America voices concern over US fiscal situation On March 1, a series of automatic spending cuts are set to occur unless Congress produces a plan that reduces the federal deficit by $1.2 trillion. These cuts will drastically scale back federal support of scientific research, environmental protections and education and do nothing substantive to address the nation's fiscal problems. Scientific research reaches across a broad cross section of society that goes well beyond academia, said Scott Collins, President of the Ecological Society of America, the world's largest organization of ecological scientists. Cutting costs of federal spending in an area that has helped the nation lower costs associated with natural disaster mitigation, public health threats from pollution and disease, and agricultural cultivation just seems counterproductive to say the least. Non-defense discretionary spending programs would receive a 5.3 percent cut under the sequester, slightly lowered from the 8.2 percent cut due to altered spending caps set by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-240). The American Association for the Advancement of Science notes that our nation's commitment to scientific research is dwindling: As a share of the economy, federal RD is 16.7 percent smaller than it was a decade ago and 29.7 percent smaller than it was in the 1970s. Read more on ESA's blog: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-in-policy/ecological-society-of-america-voices-concern-over-us-fiscal-situation/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] Announcing ESA's 2013 Opening Plenary speaker
Thanks again to all who suggested speakers for ESA's 2013 Opening Plenary. One of the nominees was Jon Foley, director of the Institute on the Environment at the U. of MN and we're happy to announce that he has accepted ESA's invite to kick off our 98th Annual Meeting! http://environment.umn.edu/about/ione_bios/jon_foley.html Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] ESA's Leadership Meeting for Underrepresented Students
DIVERSE PEOPLE FOR A DIVERSE SCIENCE ESA's Leadership Meeting for Underrepresented Students Just watch these students-watch for their names. They will continue to shine and you will keep coming across their names. Some are already taking leadership roles and after this meeting will be doing even more to help bring ecology alive. Teresa Mourad is talking about the undergraduate students who will gather next week for the Ecological Society of America's (ESA) SEEDS Leadership Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mourad is ESA's Director of Education and Diversity Programs and manages its award-winning SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability) program. SEEDS' mission is to diversify and advance the ecology profession through opportunities that stimulate and nurture the interest of underrepresented undergraduate students to not only participate in ecology, but to lead. The program's 8th annual leadership meeting will bring together over 35 students to participate in a four-day meeting they helped develop and will help run. Held this year at Dillard University, a HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) in New Orleans, the February 20-23 meeting will feature workshops, field trips, data analysis, discussion panels and projects all under the rubric of ecological recovery and harnessing science to build social resilience. Read more here: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecologist-2/ecology-education/diverse-people-for-a-diverse-science/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] Joint letter to Obama requests Climate Summit
ESA joined the Society for Conservation Biology, the American Meteorological Society and three other scientific societies in a letter to President Obama requesting that the White House convene a national summit on climate change. A considerable number of organizations have now called for a climate change summit and the recent draft report of the National Climate Assessment underscores the need for high-level attention to this issue, said the letter. Several media outlets reported on the communication, including The Hill, EE Daily, and climatecentral.org which ended with a quote from ESA's president: We're ready to help, said Scott Collins, president of the Ecological Society of America and a professor at the University of New Mexico. Just let us know what [we] can do. The climatecentral.org story is here: http://www.climatecentral.org/news/science-groups-push-obama-for-national-summit-on-climate-change-15571 The multi-society letter is available here: http://www.conbio.org/images/content_policy/2013-2-8_Presidential_Climate_Science-Policy_Summit_Letter.pdf Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] Smithsonian Botanical Symposium
Registration now open! Smithsonian Botanical Symposium April 19-20, 2013 Washington, D.C. http://botany.si.edu/sbs/ Avoiding Extinction: Contemporary Approaches to Conservation Science Presented by the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany In collaboration with the United States Botanic Garden Supported by the Cuatrecasas Family Foundation Conservation science seeks to provide a rational framework for the protection of species and their habitats. At the inception of the discipline, scientists recognized that environmental problems, including land use change and pollution effects, were significant challenges to sustaining biodiversity. Scientists now acknowledge that, while these problems remain, other issues such as invasive species, interspecific hybridization, and climate change impose additional threats to species survival. Furthermore, paleoecologists have used the fossil record to contextualize the current loss of biodiversity based on knowledge of past extinctions and paleoclimates, and now models of predicted future climates are helping to anticipate new challenges. Forty years ago, the U.S. Endangered Species Act was signed into law. This landmark piece of legislation was designed to protect plant and animal species from extinction based on our knowledge of conservation science at the time. The Act has led to many success stories, primarily due to the growing sophistication of the conservation science it spurred, but will not be sufficient on its own to address new conservation goals. With new landmark conservation legislation unlikely in the near future, how will scientists continue to move forward in their quest to preserve biodiversity? The 11th Smithsonian Botanical Symposium, hosted by the Department of Botany and the United States Botanic Garden, will highlight past efforts and new threats to conservation goals, as well as new approaches underway that promise to safeguard biodiversity both here in the U.S. and around the world. The invited speakers will cover a wide range of endangered organisms, with a special focus on plants, to illustrate the challenges of modern-day conservation science in a rapidly changing world. Symposium speakers * Scott P. Carroll, University of California-Davis * Andrea T. Kramer, Chicago Botanic Garden * Stuart Pimm, Duke University * Chris D. Thomas, University of York * Stephen Weller, University of California-Irvine * Dennis Whigham, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center * Scott Wing, National Museum of Natural History Friday, April 19 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.Opening Reception and Poster Session, The United States Botanic Garden Saturday, April 20 9:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. Lectures and Discussion, Baird Auditorium, NMNH 6:15 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.Reception and Dinner, Museum Rotunda, NMNH Information, registration, and poster abstract instructions at http://botany.si.edu/sbs/ Fax: 202-786-2563 - e-mail: s...@si.edu
[ECOLOG-L] ESA is a supporting partner organization of the 2013 Climate Leadership Conference
The 2013 Climate Leadership Conference will be held in Washington, DC from February 27 - March 1 and is an annual exchange for addressing global climate change through policy, innovation and business solutions. Best practices for integrating strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change will be discussed by leaders from business, government, academia and the non-profit communities. Among the more than 50 speakers are: Matt Clouse, Director, Renewable Energy Policies Programs, Climate Protection Partnerships Division, US Environmental Protection Agency TJ DiCaprio, Global Director of Sustainability, Microsoft Pam Fair, Vice President, Environmental and Operations Support Chief Environmental Officer, San Diego Gas Electric Lisa Jacobson, President, Business Council for Sustainable Energy Alexia Kelly, Climate Mitigation Expert, US Department of State Chris Librie, Director, Environmental Initiatives, HP Kathy Loftus, Global Leader, Sustainable Engineering, Whole Foods Michael Mondshine, Vice President and Senior Policy Analyst, Energy, Environment Infrastructure Solutions, SAIC Lindene Patton, Chief Climate Product Officer, Zurich Insurance Group, Ltd. Jeff Rice, Senior Director, Sustainability, Walmart Stephanie Rico, Vice President, Environmental Affairs, Wells Fargo More information is available here: http://www.climateleadershipconference.org/ ESA members receive a 20 percent registration discount. To join ESA, please visit: http://www.esa.org/member_services/joinrenew.php Climate Leadership Conference Discount code: ESA-Members-2013 Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] Meet this year's ESA Graduate Student Policy Award recipients
From ESA's blog EcoTone: Meet this year's ESA Grad Student Policy Awardees ESA, which is headquartered in Washington, DC, works to give the ecological community a voice at the federal level through its public policy initiatives. It also looks for opportunities to support young ecologists' interest in policy. One way is through the Society's annual Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). The competitive award brings graduate students to the nation's capital to participate in two days of science policy activities, including meetings with congressional offices and briefings with policy experts on how current political and fiscal issues may impact the work of federal agencies and support of ecological research. Since 2007, over 20 ESA graduate students have received the GSPA. Some have gone on to careers that routinely involve policy or public outreach while others have obtained Fellowships through the American Association for the Advancement of Science to work for agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Forest Service. It is always exciting each year to meet the new group of ESA Graduate Student Policy Award winners and to see them in action later in the spring when they will head to Capitol Hill to bring their voices to the discussion of national priorities. As ESA President Scott Collins notes in a recent BioScience column, Congress makes a lot of decisions about ecology, and scientists need to be at the table when decisions are made. This year's ESA GSPA winners are: Matthew Berg, Texas AM University Lindsay Deel, West Virginia University Caitlin McDonough MacKenzie, Boston University Carlos Silva, University of Maryland Read the full EcoTone blog post at: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-in-policy/meet-this-years-esa-grad-student-policy-awardees/ Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] Public comment period open for draft third national climate assessment report
The National Climate Assessment Development and Advisory Committee (NCADAC), the federal advisory committee for the National Climate Assessment, approved their draft of the Third National Climate Assessment Report for release for public comment. The draft report is available for download--both as a single document and by chapter - at http://ncadac.globalchange.gov. The public comment period for the report will run January 14 - April 12, 2013. All comments must be submitted via the online comment tool http://review.globalchange.gov/. The draft will be undergoing review by the National Research Council at the same time. The draft report is a product of the NCADAC and is not a product of the federal government. The authors of the report will use the comments received during the public comment period to revise the report before submitting it to the government for consideration. Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Washington DC 20036 (202)833-8773 x205 www.facebook.com/esa.org http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org
[ECOLOG-L] USGS Challenge
Challenge Summary USGS scientists are looking for your help in addressing some of today's most perplexing scientific challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Through the Challenge.gov platform, the USGS Core Science Analytics and Synthesis (CSAS) is inviting the Nation's premier application developers and data visualization specialists to create new applications centered on CSAS biological/ecological datasets. We know there are extremely talented people out there who will be able to devise new ways to expand the reach and/or capabilities of our data, said CSAS Director Cheryl Morris. We're eager to see what folks come up with. Submissions will be judged on their relevance to today's scientific challenges, innovative use of the datasets, and overall ease of use of the application, with prizes awarded in several categories. To learn more, visit http://applifyingusgsdata.challenge.gov/
[ECOLOG-L] Applications due on Monday for ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
Last call for Applications for 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Monday, January 7, 2013 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held April 10 - 11, 2013. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for GSPA recipients. Awardees also receive a copy of ESA's policy guide and the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and blog. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive communications training and learn about the federal budget and appropriations process and the political landscape. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, January 7, 2013: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by mid-January 2013. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, please visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=238Matthew Schuler, Washington University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?paged=2 Adam Rosenblatt, Florida International University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=231Sara Kuebbing, University of Tennessee
[ECOLOG-L] Call for Applications for 2013 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
Call for Applications for 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Monday, January 7, 2013 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held April 10 - 11, 2013. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for GSPA recipients. Awardees also receive a copy of ESA's policy guide and the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and blog. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive communications training and learn about the federal budget and appropriations process and the political landscape. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, January 7, 2013: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by mid-January 2013. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, please visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=238Matthew Schuler, Washington University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?paged=2 Adam Rosenblatt, Florida International University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=231Sara Kuebbing, University of Tennessee
[ECOLOG-L] Call for Applications for 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award
Call for Applications for 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Monday, January 7, 2013 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that in 2013 will be held either the week of March 18 or the week of April 8-exact dates TBD. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for GSPA recipients. Awardees also receive a copy of ESA's policy guide and the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and blog. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive communications training and learn about the federal budget and appropriations process and the political landscape. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, January 7, 2013: A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by mid-January 2013. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, please visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=238Matthew Schuler, Washington University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?paged=2 Adam Rosenblatt, Florida International University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=231Sara Kuebbing, University of Tennessee
[ECOLOG-L] Applications call for 2013 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
Call for Applications for 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award Applications due Monday, January 7, 2013 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2013 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that in 2013 will be held either the week of March 18 or the week of April 8-exact dates TBD. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for GSPA recipients. Awardees also receive a copy of ESA's policy guide and the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and the ESA blog, EcoTone. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive communications training and learn about the federal budget and appropriations process and the political landscape. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, January 7, 2013: A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by mid-January 2013. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, please visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=238Matthew Schuler, Washington University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?paged=2 Adam Rosenblatt, Florida International University http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=231Sara Kuebbing, University of Tennessee Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] Ask Congress to avoid slashing science and other domestic programs
On January 2, 2013, automatic cuts (sequestration) will take place unless Congress and the Administration take steps to prevent them. Please consider signing on to a letter urging Congress to avoid a January budget sequestration, which would have dramatic negative impacts on U.S. domestic programs, including science and education. The letter was developed by the Ecological Society of America, the American Institute of Biological Sciences and the American Mathematical Society and asks that Congress devise a bipartisan solution to addressing the nation's debt crisis and avoid draconian cuts that will hurt the economy and the nation's future, and do nothing to stave off the fiscal crisis. For more background and to weigh in on this important issue, please go to the AIBS Legislative Action Center: http://capwiz.com/aibs/issues/alert/?alertid=61759666 Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org Follow ESA on Twitter.
[ECOLOG-L] Ken Bierly of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board to receive ESA Regional Policy Award
Ken Bierly of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board to receive ESA Regional Policy Award The Ecological Society of America (ESA) will present its fifth annual Regional Policy Award to Ken Bierly of the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board during the Society's upcoming conference in Portland, Oregon. The ESA award recognizes an elected or appointed local policymaker who has an outstanding record of informing political decision-making with ecological science. We are delighted to present this prestigious award to Ken Bierly for his long-term commitment to Oregon's streams, rivers, wetlands and other natural areas, said ESA President Steward Pickett. His pioneering initiatives with the Oregon Department of State Lands in developing and implementing wetland regulations and Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board in developing tools for watershed management have enabled Oregonians across the state to use science to help improve and protect the rivers and streams of their communities. I am greatly honored and stand on the shoulders of a great number of researchers, fellow agency staff and citizens of the state who deeply care about and wish to understand more deeply about our precious natural heritage, said Bierly. Bierly's career ties in well with ESA's 97th annual meeting theme: Life on Earth: Preserving, Utilizing and Sustaining our Ecosystems. For over twenty years, Bierly has distinguished himself as a state employee through his innovative approaches to restoring and protecting habitats. Accomplishments include: developing freshwater wetland legislation in 1989, formulating a science-based regulatory program for wetlands, guiding the expansion of the Governor's Watershed Enhancement Board, and a key team member of Governor Kitzhaber's administration in the development of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. See the complete press release at: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2012-07/esoa-kbo072612.php
[ECOLOG-L] The Ecology of Natural Gas (ESA annual meeting press release)
The Ecology of Natural Gas Scientists examine process chain of natural gas, from rural extraction to urban distribution Fracking stories about shale gas extraction hit the news daily, fueling a growing conflagration between environmental protectionism and economic interests. Otherwise known as hydraulic fracturing, fracking has become a profitable venture thanks to advances in horizontal drilling technology, opening up large US reservoirs and vastly changing the natural gas market. Touted as a clean energy source and a bridge fuel to transition from fossil fuels, natural gas via fracking is also frought with public health and environmental concerns. A session at the upcoming annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America will look at the natural gas process chain, from extraction and processing to transport and distribution. Read the complete ESA press release: http://www.esa.org/pao/pressreleases.php?uid=121320 Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] High altitude flowers blooming earlier causing hummingbirds to miss out on much of key food source
New research published in Ecology by David Inouye, Amy McKinney and others shows glacier lilies and broad-tailed hummingbirds growing increasingly out of sync in the Rocky Mountains. The lilies are blooming some 17 days earlier than they did in the 1970s and many have wilted before the first hummingbirds arrive from their wintering grounds. If that trend continues, say the researchers, the birds may miss the nectar-rich flowers entirely in twenty years. The National Science Foundation funded the study. See the press release and photos here: http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=124345org=NSFfrom=news Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] Education Curator Position at San Antonio Zoo
Program Curator Position available at San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium: http://www.sazoo-aq.org/general/education_curator_programs.html
[ECOLOG-L] NSF Awards Second Round of Grants to Advance Digitization of Biological Collections
May be of interest: NSF Awards Second Round of Grants to Advance Digitization of Biological Collections 05/01/2012 02:52 PM EDT Centuries of exploration and discovery have documented the diversity of life on Earth. Records of that biodiversity are, for the most part, distributed widely across varied and distinct natural history collections. Until now, that has made assessing the information in these collections a difficult task. Last year, the National Science Foundation (NSF), through its Advancing Digitization of Biological Collections (ADBC) program, responded to the need for greater accessibility. More at http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=124031WT.mc_id=USNSF_51WT.mc_ev=click Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA will highlight urban ecology during USA Science Festival
ESA WILL HIGHLIGHT URBAN ECOLOGY DURING USA SCIENCE ENGINEERING FESTIVAL President Steward Pickett and other ESA members to talk to kids and families about ecology in nation's capitol WASHINGTON, DC - The Ecological Society of America (ESA), a professional organization of 10,000 ecological scientists, will join 500 other scientific societies for the second annual USA Science Engineering Festival on April 28 and 29 in Washington, DC. Hosted by Lockheed Martin, the free public event is expected to draw thousands of school children and their families. Its primary goal is to raise awareness and appreciation of science and engineering and encourage students to explore careers in those fields. ESA's booth (#245) will feature some of the plants and animals that inhabit the DC region as well as a game to learn about buried streams, the heat island effect and animal and plant interactions. In addition, kids and their parents can chat with scientists such as Steward Pickett, an urban ecologist with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies and ESA's current president. Pickett also directs the Baltimore Ecosystem Study, a long-term ecological research site supported by the National Science Foundation and one of only two such sites that are in urban areas (the other is in Phoenix, Arizona). Many people don't think about ecology in the context of cities, says Pickett. There's still this notion that you have to go to a national park or other far-away places but, in fact, ecology happens everywhere--in rivers, agricultural fields and heavily developed urban areas. I'm looking forward to talking with kids who live in DC and its suburbs about ecology and how it's relevant to them. In addition to 3,000 exhibits and a book fair, the USA Science Engineering Festival will also feature science entrepreneurs such as the co-founder of PayPal and celebrities such as the hosts of the Discovery Channel's TV series the MythBusters, Bill Nye the Science Guy, and actors from the Big Bang Theory. More about the festival: http://www.usasciencefestival.org/ Scientific and engineering organizations participating in the 2012 USA Science Festival: http://www.usasciencefestival.org/about/2012partners#Professional_Science__Engineering_Societies The Ecological Society of America is the world's largest community of professional ecologists and the trusted source of ecological knowledge. ESA is committed to advancing the understanding of life on Earth. The 10,000 member Society publishes five journals, convenes an annual scientific conference, and broadly shares ecological information through policy and media outreach and education initiatives. Visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org or find experts in ecological science at http://www.esa.org/pao/rrt/. Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205
[ECOLOG-L] Developing Ecologically-Based Conservation Targets under Global Change
ESA's Emerging Issues Conference kicked off yesterday and continues through this Thursday: Developing Ecologically-Based Conservation Targets under Global Change http://www.esa.org/emergingissues/conference.php Ecosystems are shifting under pressure from human activities, invasive species, and a changing climate, presenting us with hard philosophical and practical choices on conservation strategy. Should we preserve parkland as time capsules of past and current wilderness, or embrace changing species ranges and demographics to encourage new diversity as new ecosystems form? Eighty scientists, policy makers and resource managers are meeting to challenge assumptions and explore potential solutions at the Ecological Society of America's second conference on Emerging Issues, Developing Ecologically-Based Conservation Targets under Global Change. How do we protect species when their ranges are changing? Ecological research predicts that climatic change will reshape the competitive landscape for wildlife and drive species to seek out new territory, shaking up existing community structures and relationships. Climate change throws a wrench into traditional conservation planning efforts. We really need to step back and ask what we should be trying to conserve. What should our goals be? How do we achieve them? asked conference organizer Dov Sax, professor of biology at Brown University. It's a question he wants to put before the conservation community, and society at large. The question we want to answer is how can we achieve keeping all the parts, as Aldo Leopold said, while not keeping all the parts in the places where they are now? said co-organizer Bernd Blossey, professor of natural resources at Cornell University. See the full ESA press release at: http://www.esa.org/pao/pressreleases.php?uid=121311 Follow us on Twitter at #ecoissues2012 ESA EcoTone blog: http://www.esa.org/esablog/research/conservation/symposium-i-of-esa%E2%80%99s-emerging-issues-conference/ ESA Facebook: www.facebook.com/esa.org Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] Are editors coercing citations?
Colleagues- Please consider this actual example. A scholar receives a letter from the managing editor of a journal saying his article had been accepted for publication. Sometime later, the author receives another letter from the senior editor of the same journal asking the author to add citations from his journal. Specifically the editor writes, you only use one (name of my journal) source which is unacceptable. Please add at least five more relevant-(name of my journal) sources. Notice that this citation request does not mention omitted content or shortcomings in the manuscript's analysis; it simply asks the authors to cite related articles in the editor's journal. This practice is controversial. Some view it as inappropriate behavior, padding citations and diluting the value of the reference list. Others see it as a legitimate way to introduce readers to past literature in the editor's journal. This continuing study investigates this issue and we need your help. Would you please take a moment to complete the following survey?-it will take only a few minutes. If you consent to this survey just follow the link provided below. As required by our Institutional Review Board, individual identities will not be revealed or linked to specific responses. In fact, SurveyMonkey(c) does not connect responses to responders; we cannot identify you. IRB contact information: i...@uah.edu Thank you for your help. Link to survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/listserves Allen Wilhite Department of Economics University of Alabama in Huntsville wilhi...@uah.edu Eric A. Fong Department of Management University of Alabama in Huntsville fo...@uah.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Comments on public access to journals and digital data
The White House Office of Science Technology Policy (OSTP) has posted all comments it received on its two Requests for Information, one on public access to research published in scholarly journals and one on public access to digital data. OSTP received 377 comments on public access to scholarly publications and 118 comments on public access to digital data. Comments came from organizations and individuals representing a wide range of fields and stakeholders including scientists, publishers, librarians, scientific societies and companies. OSTP says that These comments will inform the deliberations of two interagency working groups within the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC)-the Task Force on Public Access to Scholarly Publications and the Interagency Working Group on Digital Data- that were formed in response to requirements in the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010. That law, signed by President Obama in early 2011, requires that the NSTC coordinate the development of Federal science agency policies related to the dissemination and long-term stewardship of the results of unclassified research, including digital data and peer-reviewed scholarly publications, supported wholly or in part by funding from the Federal science agencies. The two groups will carefully consider all of the public comments during their deliberative process. To view comments on public access to scholarly publications see: http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ostp/library/publicaccess To view comments on public access to digital data see: http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ostp/library/digitaldata Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA 2011 Annual Report now available
ESA's 2011 Annual Report now available online: http://www.esa.org/aboutesa/annual.report.php A new initiative to contribute to a more sustainable relationship between society and the biosphere, more rapid publication of research through ESA journals, a guidebook on policy engagement, new reports on air pollution and the environmental impacts of biofuels, and exciting projects and programs fostering ecological education were just a few highlights of 2011 for ESA and its members. Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 -- www.facebook.com/esa.org Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Graduate Student Policy Award deadline is Jan 23
The deadline to apply for the 2012 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award is fast approaching. The award includes an all-expenses paid, two-day, hands-on science policy experience in Washington, DC. Participants have multiple opportunities to interact with federal policymakers, including meetings with Members and congressional staff on Capitol Hill. *Deadline to apply is MONDAY, Jan. 23, 2012* For more information, click here: http://www.esa.org/pao/policy/ESAGraduateStudentPolicyAward2012.pdf Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax --
[ECOLOG-L] Re NSF pre-proposal
ESA leadership was concerned about this policy change and sent a letter to that regard in August: http://www.esa.org/pao/policyStatements/Letters/NSFBIOPPCL.pdf Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] Re ESA position on open access
Dear Jane, Thanks for raising the question about open access. ESA is pleased to have a long track record of making many of its resources freely available to a wide audience. As our letter notes, ESA freely shares: - The Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America - Issues in Ecology - A featured articles in each issue of the four peer-reviewed subscription journals that ESA publishes - All special issues of Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, Ecology, and Ecological Applications - The Reports section of Ecology and the Communications section of Ecological Applications - Ecological Archives - All ESA journal abstracts - Ecosphere, a rapid-publication, online only, author pays, open access journal (most recent journal, started in 2010) Our policy of allowing authors to freely post their papers online is longstanding and our permissions policy has always been very liberal in order to promote use of research articles for educational purposes. ESA, like many other publishers, is continuing to experiment with ways that papers can be made more rapidly and widely available. But it is important to keep in mind that publishers invest significant time and resources to produce peer-reviewed journals that analyze, interpret and report on research results. In addition, our subscription revenue supports other functions of ESA such as our public policy and education initiatives, that are also important to our community. Open access fees--at least at levels that would be acceptable to authors--would not cover the costs of these other ESA functions. Cheers, Nadine Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement. Fellow Ecologgers, Have people read ESA's response to a proposed requirement that the results of federally funded research be publicly available, possibly after an embargo period? It's available here. http://www.esa.org/pao/policyStatements/Letters/ESAResponsetoPublicAccessRFI2011.pdf I have to say I find this response somewhat disappointing. While some of the concerns raised in it are certainly valid, I believe it underestimates ecologists' desire to read an interesting new paper now rather than later. Also, kudos to ESA for allowing authors to freely post their papers online, something I relied on when I didn't have university journal access, but how is this financially different from open access? ESA's 2009 financial statement (the latest available online) may be of interest. http://www.esa.org/aboutesa/docs/FS2009.pdf Thoughts? Jane Shevtsov -- - Jane Shevtsov Ecology Ph.D. candidate, University of Georgia co-founder, www.worldbeyondborders.org She has future plans and dreams at night. They tell her life is hard; she says 'That's all right'. --Faith Hill, Wild One
[ECOLOG-L] Apply now for ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
2012 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Monday, January 23, 2012 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2012 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The Society's GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held March 28 and 29, 2012. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for GSPA recipients. Awardees also receive a free copy of ESA's new publication, An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement. In addition, awardees have the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and for ESA's blog, Ecotone. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive tips on effective communication and information on the federal budget and appropriations process. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, January 23, 2012: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by early February 2012. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=210 Michael Levy, West Virginia University, Weighing the Long-term Implications of Mountaintop Removal Mining http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=204 Kellen Marshall-Gillespie, University of Illinois, Chicago, Environmental Justice: Merging Earth Stewardship with Social Justice http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=217 Daniel Evans, University of Washington, Seattle, Habitat Corridors Help Preserve Wildlife in the Midst of Human Society Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA accepting applications for Graduate Student Policy Award
Each year, the Ecological Society of America (ESA) offers its member graduate students the opportunity to apply for its Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA), an award that gives graduate students an all-expenses paid, two-day, hands-on science policy experience in Washington, DC. Awardees travel to the nation's capital to participate in an orientation, hear briefings from federal agency and congressional officials, network with other scientists from across the U.S., and engage with congressional staff and Members during meetings focused on federally funded STEM research and education. The ESA GSPA is announced in the late fall and winners are selected by February, with awardees participating in Spring Congressional Visits Day events. The most recent ESA GSPA announcement and instructions to apply is available at: http://www.esa.org/pao/policy/ESAGraduateStudentPolicyAward2012.pdf Past GSPA recipients offer their perspectives on ESA's podcast, An Ecologist Goes to Washington: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=204 Questions about this opportunity should be directed to: p...@esa.org
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Issues in Ecology: Using Air Pollution Thresholds to Protect and Restore U.S. Ecosystems now available online
The Ecological Society of America has just published another edition of its Issues in Ecology series. Air pollution is changing our environment and undermining many benefits we rely on from wild lands, threatening water purity, food production, and climate stability, according to a team of scientists writing in the 14th edition of the Ecological Society of America's Issues in Ecology. In Setting Limits: Using Air Pollution Thresholds to Protect and Restore U.S. Ecosystems, lead author Mark Fenn (USDA Forest Service) and nine colleagues review current pollution evaluation criteria. The authors propose science-based strategies to set new limits and put the brakes on acid rain, algal blooms, and accumulation of toxic mercury in plants and animals. Issues in Ecology #14 is available for free as a pdf on ESA's website: http://esa.org/science_resources/issues/FileEnglish/issuesinecology14.pdf Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax -- www.facebook.com/esa.org: Like the new ESA Facebook page, ask friends/colleagues to do the same. http://twitter.com/#!/esa_org: Follow ESA on Twitter. ESA eStore: Now available: An Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement.
[ECOLOG-L] 2012 NORTH AMERICAN INVASIVE PLANT ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT SHORT COURSE
2012 NORTH AMERICAN INVASIVE PLANT ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT SHORT COURSE A new course on invasive plants has been developed for researchers, land managers, graduate students, and policy makers. The North American Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Short Course (NAIPSC) is three days of intense instruction and learning for those interested in the basics of invasive plant ecology and management. The second annual course will be held June 26-28 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln West Central Research Extension Center in North Platte, NE. The 2012 NAIPSC will include presentations, hands-on workshops, site visits and instructor-led discussion sessions on the latest in invasive plant ecology and management. CEU and graduate student credit will be available. Check the website (http://ipscourse.unl.edu) for more information. Registration will be opening soon.
[ECOLOG-L] NSF announces new policies to support scientists and their families
Seems relevant to a recent discussion thread. The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 26, 2011 The White House and National Science Foundation Announce New Workplace Flexibility Policies to Support America’s Scientists and Their Families 12:45PM Conference Call with Tina Tchen, John P. Holdren, and Subra Suresh Today, White House Council on Women and Girls Executive Director Tina Tchen, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director John P. Holdren, and National Science Foundation (NSF) Director Subra Suresh announced the “NSF Career-Life Balance Initiative,” a 10-year plan to provide greater work-related flexibility to women and men in research careers. Among the best practices that NSF will expand Foundation-wide, are ones that will allow researchers to delay or suspend their grants for up to one year in order to care for a newborn or newly adopted child or fulfill other family obligations. — maximizing current policy to facilitate scientists’ reentry into their professions with minimal loss of momentum. “Jump-starting girls’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math—the so-called STEM subjects -- and boosting the percentage of women employed in science and engineering is not just the right thing to do but is also the smart thing to do for America’s future and the economy,” said Tina Tchen. “Too many young women scientists and engineers get sidetracked or drop their promising careers because they find it too difficult to balance the needs of those careers and the needs of their families,” said Subra Suresh. “This new initiative aims to change that, so that the country can benefit from the full range and diversity of its talent.” Later today, First Lady Michelle Obama will speak at a White House event about the importance of supporting and retaining women and girls in STEM careers. At this East Room event, the NSF will discuss today’s announcement about retaining women in STEM fields. Tune in to www.whitehouse.gov/live to join the event live at 4 pm EDT. “If we’re going to out-innovate and out-educate the rest of the world, we’ve got to open doors for everyone,” said Mrs. Obama. “We need all hands on deck, and that means clearing hurdles for women and girls as they navigate careers in science, technology, engineering and math.” NSF—which is the leading source of Federal grants for many fields of basic research crucial to US technology development and job creation, including computer science, mathematics, and the social sciences—is also calling upon universities and research institutes to adopt similar policies for their employees and grantees. Women today currently earn 41% of PhD’s in STEM fields, but make up only 28% of tenure-track faculty in those fields. Reducing the dropout rate of women in STEM careers is especially important in the quest for gender equality because women in STEM jobs earn 33 percent more than those in non-STEM occupations and the wage gap between men and women in STEM jobs is smaller than in other fields. NSF has launched targeted workplace flexibility efforts in the past, but the new initiative is the first to be applied Foundation-wide to help postdoctoral fellows and early-career faculty members more easily care for dependents while continuing their careers. The new initiative will offer a coherent and consistent set of family-friendly policies and practices to help eliminate some of the barriers to women’s advancement and retention in STEM careers. It will: •Allow postponement of grants for child birth/adoption – Grant recipients can defer their awards for up to one year to care for their newborn or newly adopted children. •Allow grant suspension for parental leave – Grant recipients who wish to suspend their grants to take parental leave can extend those grants by a comparable duration at no cost. •Provide supplements to cover research technicians – Principal investigators can apply for stipends to pay research technicians or equivalent staff to maintain labs while PIs are on family leave. •Publicize the availability of family friendly opportunities – NSF will issue announcements and revise current program solicitations to expressly promote these opportunities to eligible awardees. •Promote family friendliness for panel reviewers – STEM researchers who review the grant proposals of their peers will have greater opportunities to conduct virtual reviews rather than travel to a central location, increasing flexibility and reducing dependent-care needs. •Support research and evaluation – NSF will continue to encourage the submission of proposals for research that would asses the effectiveness of policies aimed at keeping women in the STEM pipeline. •Leverage and Expand Partnerships -- NSF will leverage existing relationships with academic institutions to encourage the extension of the tenure clock and allow for dual hiring
[ECOLOG-L] Call for proposals SCB North America Congress for Conservation Biology
Announcing call for proposals for SCB North America Congress for
Conservation Biology.
And meet our mascot Stony: An American Pika
http://www.scbnacongress.org/home/theme-mascot-steering-committee.html#stony
CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR SYMPOSIA, WORKSHOPS, DISCUSSION GROUPS AND SHORT
COURSES The 2012 North American Congress for Conservation Biology: Bridging
the Gap: Connecting people, nature, climate will be held from 15-18 July
in Oakland, California. Proposals for symposia, workshops, discussion
groups and short courses must be submitted by 7 November 2011.
Complete instructions for submitting proposals are available on the meeting
Web site
http://www.scbnacongress.org/registration-participation/call-for-proposals.h
tml The time available for presentations at the meeting is limited so we
may not be able to accommodate all symposium submissions. Trainings and
short courses are encouraged and will be accommodated if possible. Please
review the selection criteria and other information below carefully prior to
making your submission.
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
To increase the probability that a symposium proposal will be selected for
presentation, please consider the following criteria carefully:
--Scientific merit of the proposal: cutting-edge conservation science and
quality of science.
--Application to conservation.
--Overall coherence of the session and logical linkage between the
individual presentations.
--Clear focus on either science, management, policy, or a coherent linkage
between these three areas.
--Relevance to the meeting theme ('Bridging the Gap: Connecting people,
nature, climate').
--Relevance to North American conservation issues --Novelty of the topic
--Alignment with the goals of SCB, which are:
Conservation Science: The scientific research and knowledge needed to
understand and conserve biological diversity is identified, funded,
completed, disseminated and applied to research, management and policy.
Conservation Management: Conservation practitioners and managers are
provided the scientific information and recommendations needed to conserve
biological diversity at all scales.
Policy: Policy decisions of major international conventions, governments,
organizations and foundations are effectively informed and improved by the
highest quality scientific counsel, analysis and recommendations so as to
advance the conservation of biological diversity.
Education: Education, training and capacity-building programs are
identified, strengthened and developed to inform the public and education
leaders, and support current and future generations of conservation
scientists and practitioners.
MEETING THEME
Bridging the Gap: Connecting people, nature, climate The greatest
challenge to conservation science today is addressing gaps in information,
understanding, and on-the-ground implementation. These gaps require
bridging our efforts across multiple scales through inter-disciplinary study
and effective practice. By sharing our conservation experience we can
benefit from information about how effective our practices are, advance our
understanding, and foster useful lines of inquiry.
We are facing many environmental and social challenges that have common
underpinnings and mutually desirable outcomes, justifying a clear need to
integrate social, biological, and physical sciences into the environmental
problem solving process. Change is coming that will affect our climate,
population, and natural capital. Fostering a stronger connection between
conservation science and practice that addresses people, nature, and climate
will improve the utility of our science in addressing the forecasted
changes.
North America in particular will see changes that are likely to influence
biodiversity at multiple scales from large migratory routes to extirpation
of locally adapted species. Our fresh water supplies will be stretched to
accommodate population growth, development, and may likely become seasonally
less predictable. Changes such as these have implications for human
communities, protected areas, and working landscapes.
Developing conservation strategies to cope with our changing planet is
arguably the greatest challenge facing the world and its biodiversity.
Working to bridge the gaps we face in developing and implementing these
strategies requires that all of us come together to benefit from our
collective experience. Together we can build bridges connecting our
collective disciplines across the continents and into the future.
Limits on number of presentations per presenter: Individuals may not submit
more than one proposal and, as a general rule, no individual may give more
than one presentation in each of the following categories: symposium,
contributed paper (regular or speed) or contributed poster.
Financial support: It is the responsibility of organizers of symposia,
workshops and discussion groups to obtain funding for their own expenses and
those of their invited speakers or invited
[ECOLOG-L] New ESA handbook on policy engagement
During its 96th Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas, the Ecological Society of America released its new booklet, An Ecologist's Guide to Policy Engagement. This new ESA publication focuses on opportunities to connect ecological information to public policy issues. Aimed primarily at ecological scientists but also useful for others, the book: - covers the Congressional and Executive branches--highlighting federal agencies with environmental regulatory authority or resource management responsibilities - provides an overview of key environmental laws - offers tips on effective preparation and communication during in-person meetings, congressional testimony, crafting opinion editorials, talking with rotary clubs, contributing to science blogs and working with the media - provides numerous resources at the local, state, and federal levels as well as policy fellowships and awards for young scientists **Attendees at the ESA Austin meeting may pick up a free copy at the ESA booth in the Exhibit Hall while supplies last** To order as an ebook or as a print copy, please go to: http://eservices.esa.org/services/source/Orders/index.cfm?section=unknowntask=1CATEGORY=POLPUBSDESCRIPTION=Policy%20PublicationsCFTOKEN=36703557continue=1SEARCH_TYPE=find Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700 Washington, DC 20036 202.833.8773
[ECOLOG-L] Re a few thousand ecologists
Hi All: In response to Madhu's query-- Because most scientific organizations such as ESA work under embargoes, you are unlikely to see advance news stories about the meeting. Once the embargoes begin to lift (the day a presentation is made at the Annual Meeting), the media will begin to cover the meeting. The exception was the belly button microbe story, where a reporter broke the embargo and we lifted it for everyone; hence the story is already out well before the research is presented at the ESA Meeting. Organizations use embargoes for both scientific meetings where new research is presented as well as for their journals. The idea is to give reporters advance time to learn about the topic, interview the researchers and put together a good story. The embargo gives all reporters the same amount of time to prepare their story. For a meeting, the embargo lists on the day the research is presented; for a journal, it is usually when the journal article is published. ESA distributed several embargoed press releases to all its trusted media contacts, as well as worked with many institutions' public information offices to encourage them to send out their own releases about the meeting if they have researchers from their institution presenting in Austin. About a dozen press are registered to attend and cover the Annual Meeting and we expect more to cover it remotely. The Society's Opening Plenary and Thursday's benefit concert are open to the general public free of charge and we sent out Public Service Announcements to all local news outlets. Austin EcoNetwork did this short blog promoting the these two events: http://www.austineconetwork.com/blog/ecological-society-america-rockin%E2%80%99-austin-night-nature-acl-%E2%80%93-live-concert-benefit-austin-enviro So, stay tuned, press coverage about the meeting will start rolling in once the meeting actually starts. If you have more questions and are attending the ESA meeting in Austin, you are welcome to stop by our Press Room, room 2 at the Convention Center. Cheers, Nadine Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Hello from Austin, folks! I would like to share some thoughts from my blog as I prepare for the ESA 2011 meeting starting here today, and wonder why this big meeting isn't in the news - anywhere: http://leafwarbler.posterous.com/a-few-thousand-ecologists-meet-in-the-city-to I would appreciate any feedback, on why ESA isn't more in the news, or whether it is just my misperception. Madhu ~ Madhusudan Katti Associate Professor of Vertebrate Biology Department of Biology, M/S SB73 California State University, Fresno Fresno, CA 93740-8034 Email: mka...@csufresno.edu Tel: 559.278.2460 Fax: 559.278.3963 Lab: http://www.reconciliationecology.org/ ULTRA: http://urban-faces.org/ Blog: http://leafwarbler.posterous.com/ ~
[ECOLOG-L] Position opening for CEO of NEON Inc.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER NEON, INC. Boulder, Colorado NEON, Inc. is an independent 501(c)(3) corporation created to manage large-scale ecological observing systems and experiments on behalf of the scientific community. NEON, Inc.'s goal is to provide information that will contribute to a better global understanding and decision-making capability in a changing environment, using scientific information about continental-scale ecology obtained through integrated observations and experiments. The Corporation's primary focus has been on the design and planning for the National Ecological Observatory Network (the NEON Project), a new, federally-funded network to collect ecological and environmental observations across the continental United States, including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The Observatory Network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. NEON, Inc's primary revenue source has been the NEON Project. It is supported, through a recently-approved, 5-year, National Science Foundation (NSF) grant of approximately $433M. The expectation is that NEON, Inc. will continue to receive funding from NSF for 30 years of operations, at a level of approximately $80M per year after the 5-year construction period is complete and the Observatory is commissioned. The NEON, Inc. Project is the first Major Research Equipment and Facilities Construction (MREFC) Project that supports ecological science, with the objective of transforming ecological science at the continental scale. It does so by providing physical and information infrastructure to capture data. The data the NEON, Inc. Project collects and provides will focus on how land use, climate change and invasive species affect biodiversity and ecosystem services. Obtaining integrated data on these relationships over a long-term period is crucial to improving forecast models and resource management for environmental change. These data and information products will be readily available to scientists, educators, students, decision makers, and the public. This will allow a wide audience to use NEON, Inc. tools to understand and address ecological questions and issues. The NEON, Inc. infrastructure is a means of enabling transformational science and promoting broad ecological lit! eracy. For additional information about the Project and NEON, Inc., please view their website: www.neoninc.org. Background: NEON, Inc. was officially incorporated in 2006 to carry out the formal planning, design, construction and operation of the NEON, Inc. Project, which had been conceived more than 5 years earlier. Since 2006, the planning and design of the NEON Project has been the sole focus of the Corporation, with the exception of a few small, but related projects. With the design and plan approved and NSF funding now in place, the focus is now on construction and operation of the Observatory. It is anticipated that the 20 core and 40 relocatable sites, the mobile lab, and the three airborne observation platforms, will be completed in 2016. Responsibilities: Reporting to the sixteen-member Board of Directors, the CEO will be held accountable for achieving all of the Corporation's goals and objectives as determined by the Board and the cooperative agreements with NSF. The CEO will be responsible for planning, organizing, and providing leadership and scientific direction to the current staff of 125 professionals and will manage the growth of the Corporation to the size required to construct and operate the Observatory, as well as pursue other business interests that the Corporation might have. He/She will also be responsible for overseeing the Corporation's programs and activities, within the bylaws and policies of the Board, and to achieve the mission, goals, and objectives of the Corporation in the most effective manner possible. The CEO is supported by two outside committees that are staffed by NEON Member Organizations: the Program Advisory Committee and the Science, Technology, and Education Advisory Committee. The CEO currently has 8 direct reports, including the Chief Financial Officer, Chief of External Affairs, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Scientific Officer, Chief of Human Resources, Chief of Education and Public Engagement, the NEON Observatory Director, and the NEON Project Manager. The key responsibilities for the CEO will include: - Strategic planning, advocacy, intellectual leadership, and the effective operation of the Corporation. - Maintaining the scientific credibility of NEON, Inc. and the Project. - Fostering cohesive and coordinated leadership for NEON, Inc. to assure that NEON as a Corporation achieves its goals. - Determining how NEON, Inc. should be organized and promoted to assure it has a broad impact, nationally and internationally. -
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Annual Meeting Session to announce ESA Policy Handbook
The Austin Annual Meeting of the Ecological Society of America will feature the debut of our new publication, The Ecologist's Guidebook to Policy Engagement. Aimed primarily at ecological scientists, the book provides advice for interacting with government entities, an overview of key environmental laws and tips on effective preparation and communication with policy-makers. The book also includes advice for interacting with the media through letters to the editor, op-eds or contributions to science blogs. The guidebook will be released during Special Session 13 on Tuesday, August 9, 8 pm -10 pm in room 18 D of the Austin Convention Center. Free copies of the guidebook will be distributed to all session participants. A cash bar and light snacks will also be provided.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA position opening for Communications Officer
Communications Officer The Ecological Society of America, a membership organization of 10,000 professional ecological scientists, seeks to fill the position of Communications Officer to: manage ESA's blog, EcoTone, including writing original posts and soliciting and editing guest posts; help maintain other social media efforts, including regular Twitter and Facebook updates; produce the podcast, Field Talk; produce and distribute press releases, maintain a press database, and serve as media liaison. Position requires a Bachelor's degree (biology, journalism, English); at least two years related work experience, including media relations; excellent verbal and written communications skills; ability to summarize technical scientific information; ability to handle multiple projects; strong interpersonal skills; and social media expertise. Knowledge of scientific associations, journalism, and public relations practices are helpful. Web (especially Wordpress) and design experience a plus. The Communications Officer works out of the Society's Washington, DC Headquarters Office. Salary for this full-time position is commensurate with experience. ESA is an EOE and offers excellent employee benefits. To apply, email or mail cover letter, resume, and one writing sample to the attention of ESA Director of Public Affairs (resu...@esa.org);1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036. Position is open until filled. No phone calls please.
[ECOLOG-L] North Am Conservation Biology Congress July 15 - 18, 2012
SAVE THE DATE JULY 15-18, 2012 North America Congress for Conservation Biology (NACCB) San Francisco Bay Area, California Bridging the Gap: Connecting nature, people, climate http://www.scbnacongress.org Don't miss this opportunity to attend the most important meeting for conservation science professionals and students working in North America organized by the Society for Conservation Biology. This inaugural NACCB will provide a forum for presenting new research and developments in conservation science and practice, and discussing today's conservation challenges. The Congress will feature numerous symposia, workshops, short courses and field trips. Most importantly, these bi-annual conferences will help connect our regional community of conservation professionals and serve as the major networking outlet for anyone interested in North America conservation in years when there is not a SCB international meeting scheduled. See you there, NACCB planning committee PLEASE GO TO THIS WEB SITE now to stay up to date with notices about this important conference http://www.scbnacongress.org/app/mailinglist.cfm View this web site for a graphics enabled version of this flyer http://www.conbio.org/new/2011-04_naccbsavedate.html
[ECOLOG-L] Aldo Leopold Documentary at National Museum of Natural History
MARCH 19, 3:30 p.m. National Museum of Natural History GREEN FIRE: ALDO LEOPOLD AND A LAND ETHIC FOR OUR TIME (USA, 2011, 60 min.) Washington, D.C. Premiere Leopold biographer and conservation biologist Curt Meine serves as the on-screen guide for this film, the first feature documentary on Aldo Leopold, arguably the greatest conservationist of the 20th century. The film examines Leopold's thinking, renewing his idea of a land ethic for a population facing 21st century ecological challenges. Green Fire describes the formation of Leopold's idea, exploring how it changed one man and later permeated through all arenas of conservation. Drawing on Leopold's life and experiences, the film explores the deep impact of his thinking on conservation projects around the world today. Through these examples, viewers are challenged to contemplate their own relationship with the land community. Directed and produced by Ann Dunsky, Steven Dunsky and David Steinke. Introduced by Jeffrey Stine, Chair, Division of Medicine and Science, National Museum of American History and Buddy Huffaker, Executive Director, Aldo Leopold Foundation. Discussion with filmmakers Ann Dunsky, Steven Dunsky and David Steinke and with William Meadows, President, The Wilderness Society, follows screening. Shown with AMERICA'S LOST LANDSCAPE: THE TALLGRASS PRAIRIE as part of the Landscape and Land program FREE. No reservations required. National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium, 10th St. Constitution Ave., NW
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day event
2011 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award for Congressional Visits Day Applications due Thursday, January 20, 2011 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2011 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The Society's GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held March 30 and 31, 2011. ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for all GSPA recipients. Awardees also have the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and for ESA's blog, Ecotone. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive tips on effective communication and information on the federal budget and appropriations process. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Thursday, January 20, 2011: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by early February 2011. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=184 (Alexis Erwin, Cornell University. Investing for the Future: Federal Science Funding and its Benefits for Communities) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=177 (Colin Phifer, University of Hawaii-Hilo. Talking Story: Using Narrative to bring Ecology Home) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=164 (Patrick Shirey, Notre Dame. Asian Carp Two Ways: The Politics and Science of Ecological Risks) Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] 2011 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
2011 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award Applications due Thursday, January 20, 2011 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) invites applications for its 2011 Graduate Student Policy Award (GSPA). Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience including interacting with congressional decision-makers, federal agency officials, and others engaged in science and public policy. The Society's GSPA is given to up to three applicants. Winners participate in the annual Congressional Visits Day, a two-day event that will be held during the last two weeks of March 2011 (exact dates will be determined in January). ESA covers travel and lodging expenses associated with this event for all GSPA recipients. Awardees also have the opportunity to be interviewed for ESA's podcast, The Ecologist Goes to Washington and for ESA's blog, Ecotone. ESA is co-organizer of Congressional Visits Day, sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition to promote federal investment in the biological sciences, particularly through the National Science Foundation. Participants receive tips on effective communication and information on the federal budget and appropriations process. During the second day of the event, participants meet with congressional decision makers to discuss federal support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. Past GSPA recipients are not eligible. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Thursday, January 20, 2011: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state) -A one-page resume Applicants will be notified of decisions by early February 2011. Please direct questions to p...@esa.org. To hear the insights of last year's ESA GSPA winners, visit the links below: http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=184 (Alexis Erwin, Cornell University. Investing for the Future: Federal Science Funding and its Benefits for Communities) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=177 (Colin Phifer, University of Hawaii-Hilo. Talking Story: Using Narrative to bring Ecology Home) http://www.esa.org/egwash/?p=164 (Patrick Shirey, Notre Dame. Asian Carp Two Ways: The Politics and Science of Ecological Risks)
[ECOLOG-L] AAAS Science Technology Policy Fellowships Call for Applications
2011-12 AAAS Science Technology Policy Fellowships - Call for Applications APPLY YOUR SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE TO SERVE SOCIETY The AAAS Science Technology Policy Fellowships enable scientists and engineers from a broad range of disciplines, sectors and career stages to apply their knowledge to help improve policymaking and implementation while learning first-hand how federal policies are developed and deployed. Year-long fellowship assignments start in September and are available in the U.S. Congress and nearly 20 executive branch agencies in Washington DC. Stipends range from $75,000 to $96,000 plus benefits. Enhance public policy while advancing your career! Application Deadline: 5 December 2010 For more information and to apply: http://fellowships.aaas.org
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Policy News September 30, 2010
Dear Ecologgers, About every two weeks, ESA's Public Affairs Office distributes Policy News (below) to ESA's listserv, ESANEWS. If it looks like something you would be interested in receiving, just subscribe to ESANEWS (instructions at end of message). Cheers, Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs ESA Policy News September 30, 2010 RENEWABLE ENERGY: SENATORS INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL GULF SPILL: PUBLIC OFFICIALS TESTIFY ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS GULF SPILL: RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES AND COORDINATION GULF SPILL: HOLLYWOOD ACTOR PITCHES OIL SPILL CLEAN-UP PLAN TO LAWMAKERS MINING: SENATE FIGHT OVER CLEANUP FUND SPILLS INTO HOUSE CANADA: INDUSTRY GROUPS FIGHT OIL SANDS LAWSUIT AS LOBBYING HEATS UP CHESAPEAKE BAY: EPA THREATENS STATES OVER CLEANUP INTERIOR: DEPARTMENT ISSUES NEW SCIENTIFIC INTEGRITY POLICY EPA: JACKSON TO LEAD RESTORATION TASK FORCE CLIMATE: FWS RELEASES CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY CURRENT POLICY RENEWABLE ENERGY: SENATORS INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL Supporters of a renewable electricity standard (RES) measure are pushing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to take up language that would require utilities to source a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. S. 3813, Renewable Electricity Promotion Act of 2010 has been introduced by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and Sen. Sam Brownback (R-KS). The bill boasts 20 bipartisan original cosponsors. The measure was once considered a shoe-in for inclusion in a Senate climate bill this year, but has failed to gain traction. Reid dashed hopes of passage this summer when he pulled the provision from his energy and oil spill-response package in July. But the Senate never voted on that package, and supporters are still advocating for passage of RES language this fall. Four Republican Senators -- Brownback, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Jeff Sessions of Alabama and Bob Corker of Tennessee -- supported the energy bill last summer passed by the Energy and Natural Resources Committee that included a 15 percent RES provision. Past Republican supporters outside the energy committee include Sens. Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe of Maine, among others. Sponsors of the stand-alone RES measure yesterday said they plan to use the next few weeks to drum up the 60 votes needed to overcome a Republican procedural hurdle. Once they reach that threshold, they will urge Reid to give the measure floor time after the November election, according to Sen. Bingaman. To amend or not to amend What remains unclear is whether the Senate would take up a stand-alone RES measure. Observers say the language would most likely be included in a larger energy package that could also include oil spill-response language and energy efficiency and natural gas vehicle incentives. In addition to gaining GOP votes, passage of a RES would also need to overcome the concerns of a handful of Democrats who are not keen on the measure. Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA) said she would not support a stand-alone RES. She wants to see it coupled with oil spill-response legislation before she will consider it. Sens. Ben Nelson (D-NE) and Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) have also voiced concerns with RES language. Nelson told reporters Tuesday he would not support a RES like the one in the energy bill that passed out of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee last summer. The stand-alone measure is nearly identical to that measure. Sen. Lincoln has said her support of RES language would hinge on the legislation including and defining biomass and hydroelectric energy. Lincoln has previously pushed for RES language that allows more forest materials to count toward meeting the standard. Bingaman contends the bill should be brought to the floor this session as a stand-alone measure or not at all, asserting that the point of introducing the stand-alone RES bill is to get enough cosponsors to show the bill can pass without amendments. RES bill could draw efforts to stymie EPA regs The RES measure could become a prime target for lawmakers looking to stymie Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) climate rules slated to kick in on Jan. 2, 2011. Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), has authored a measure that would block EPA from regulating greenhouse gases from stationary sources for two years. Rockefeller stated he was not planning to offer his measure as an amendment, but he did not rule it out. The coal state lawmaker is concerned about how the standard would affect his state. Rockefeller stated that Reid is promising a vote this year on his bill. Even if a measure to block EPA climate rules could get the 60 votes needed to pass the Senate, it would face an uphill battle clearing the Democratic-controlled House and would likely face a White House veto. Graham bill could drain RES support Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) plans to float a new bill that would establish
[ECOLOG-L] ESA partners with The Nature Conservancy to support high school urban education program
July 15, 2010 ESA Contact: Lina Oliveros, ESA Urban Education Programs Coordinator 202.833.8773, ext. 236; l...@esa.org TNC Contact: Brigitte Griswold, TNC Director of Youth Programs 212.381.2186; bgrisw...@tnc.org ESA PARTNERS WITH THE NATURE CONSERVANCY TO SUPPORT HIGH SCHOOL URBAN EDUCATION PROGRAM Society to provide peer-reviewed resources to environmentally themed high schools Since 1995, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has run an environmental leadership program for teenagers and their educators. The Toyota USA Foundation provides lead support for LEAF (Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future), a program which combines an enriched curriculum at environmentally themed high schools with paid internships for students of diverse backgrounds and cultures on Conservancy Preserves on the East Coast, from Maine to Georgia. Now LEAF is branching out. Beginning in the fall of 2010, TNC and the Ecological Society of America will help educators from environmental high schools share best practices and scientific resources. The partnership between ESA and The Nature Conservancy is a natural alliance given our two organization's respective strengths in ecology and conservation, and our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of diverse environmental leaders, said Brigitte Griswold, Director of Youth Programs for The Nature Conservancy. The partnership with TNC provides ESA with $70,000 through the Toyota USA Foundation, enabling the Society to expand its reach to high school teachers and students interested in ecology and related careers in the field. This is a historic development for ESA. For the first time, we have a dedicated staff person focused on secondary education programs, a natural extension of our award-winning undergraduate student program, SEEDS. said Teresa Mourad, ESA Director of Education and Diversity Programs. ESA's SEEDS program, (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability) nurtures the interest of underrepresented undergraduate students in ecological science. At a time when society faces enormous environmental challenges, this project is an opportunity for ESA to build upon its existing secondary and collegiate initiatives and begin a concerted dialog on effective ways to infuse ecology and environmental education throughout the high school curriculum, said Mourad. In 2010, the program will focus on eight participating schools in the states of New York and Connecticut. Among the activities planned are: - regular meetings and communication with high school educators across all subject areas - a Green Jobs fair highlighting natural resource careers and college preparation strategies - high-school appropriate resources from ESA's peer-reviewed EcoEd Digital Library - scientific review and support of teacher lessons More information on LEAF can be found at http://esa.org/education_diversity/k12/urban%20youth%20program.php and http://www.nature.org/leaf/about/educators.html The Ecological Society of America is the country's primary professional organization of ecologists, representing 10,000 scientists in the United States and around the world. Since its founding in 1915, ESA has pursued the responsible application of ecological principles to the solution of environmental problems through ESA reports, journals, research, and expert testimony to Congress. For more information about the Society and its activities, visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org. The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has protected more than 119 million acres of land and 5,000 miles of rivers worldwide. The Nature Conservancy works in all 50 states and more than 30 countries-protecting habitats from grasslands to coral reefs, from Australia to Alaska to Zambia. For more information, visit www.nature.org. The Toyota USA Foundation is a $100 million charitable endowment created to support education programs serving kindergarten through 12th grade students and their teachers in the United States, with an emphasis on mathematics, science and environmental science. For additional information about the Toyota USA Foundation, visit www.toyota.com/foundation.
[ECOLOG-L] Scientist sign on letter re Asian Carp
The message below is from Dr. Murray of Central Michigan University. He and colleagues have initiated the scientist sign-on letter below. Any questions should be directed to: Brent A. Murry, Ph.D. Research Assistant Professor Central Michigan University brent.mu...@gmail.com Office: 989-774-7627 From Dr. Murray: I am writing on behalf of a group of concerned scientists who believe that the best way to stop the movement of Asian carp and other invasive species between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River valley is to restore the natural basin divide. We are asking you and other scientists please read and sign on to this short, clear statement at http://prairierivers.wufoo.com/forms/position-statement-on-invasive-species/ Concerned citizens and decision makers alike need assurance that our proposal is scientifically sound. Please forward this message to your colleagues, post it on listserves of professional societies dealing with conservation in general and invasive species in particular. The public fascination with the carp threat creates a unique opportunity for the scientific community to raise this issue to the federal level where it needs to be addressed. As we all know, invasive species do not respect political boundaries. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Data Registry for Gulf, your help requested
The British Petroleum Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico will impact the northeastern Gulf of Mexico and larger regions of Earth's ecosystem in an unprecedented way. The scientific community can contribute invaluable information regarding the conditions of affected ecosystems prior the spill. This information will be crucial to ongoing and future damage assessment, clean up, mitigation and restoration over the coming weeks, months, years, and decades. The Ecological Society of America has set up a data registry system http://www.esa.org/mdc/in which anyone with information about ecological or environmental conditions along the coastal ecosystems of the four affected states (LA, MS, AL, and FL) ) can upload metadata and help build a database documenting ecological states and conditions before the spill. This database will be searchable by place and time, taxa or physico-chemical variables monitored, ecosystem type, etc. Those scientists contributing their metadata and their contact information will agree to share their information with scientists and managers on the front line of assessment, mitigation, or restoration efforts. ESA graduate student leaders Jorge Ramos and Rob Salguero-Gomez will follow up with the contact person for more information, if needed. Please help us by submitting your information and notifying colleagues about this effort. If you would like to submit photographs, please upload them to the ESAStudentSection picasa photo account (http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/view?q=ESAStudentSectionpsc=Gfilter=1#5478442790476145826). Link to data registry website: http://www.esa.org/mdc/ For more information please contact: Jorge Ramos and Rob Salguero-Gomez at esastudentsect...@gmail.com or Nadine Lymn (nad...@esa.org) ESA is grateful to the following individuals who made this initiative possible: Rob Salguero-Gomez (Chair, ESA Student Section), Jorge Ramos (Leader, ESA SEEDS Network), Zaw Aung, ESA Webmaster, and Mark Stromberg and the UC Natural Reserve System, which provided ESA with a database template for this effort. Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Position Opening, Science Policy Analyst
Science Policy Analyst The Ecological Society of America (ESA), the world's largest professional organization of 10,000 ecological scientists, seeks to fill the position of Science Policy Analyst. Responsibilities include: track environmental legislation and identify opportunities for scientific input; develop ESA statements; produce ESA's bimonthly Policy News; organize congressional briefings, and attend hearings and other relevant meetings; and produce an ESA podcast. Work closely with ESA's Rapid Response Team. The position requires a degree in environmental science, political science, or related field, and two years of policy experience. The ideal candidate will be a flexible self-starter with excellent judgment, interpersonal, and communications skills. Experience working for a professional membership organization is a plus. The salary for this full-time position is upper $30s. Excellent benefits, EOE. To apply, please email or mail by July 1, 2010 cover letter, resume, and short writing sample to resu...@esa.org; ESA, Attn. Science Policy Analyst Position, 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036. No phone calls please.
[ECOLOG-L] Call for Datasets to evaluate Oil Spill Impacts
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) and the ESA Student Section are organizing several efforts to address the effects of the oil spill on the shores of Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Alabama. These actions include sharing of datasets to evaluate biodiversity impacts and hands-on volunteering: SHARING OF DATASETS: The aim is to develop a pre-impact wildlife assessment to make monitoring possible in impact sites faster and more accurate. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish Wildlife Conservation Commission and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have begun similar programs for sediment samples in FL, MS, AL and LA. If you have datasets and/or photographs that could be used to evaluate the biodiversity of the shores of the Gulf of Mexico before the oil spill (e.g. transects, surveys, etc.), please submit them to esastudentsect...@gmail.com with the subject line Pre-spill information at your earliest convenience. Word, Excel, CSV, JPG or similar formats are welcome. Please make sure to attach a detailed explanation (and metadata) of the material being made available (i.e. variables, date of census, location) so that ESA graduate students who have agreed to collate all the information can do so in the most effective way. Ultimately, ESA will provide summaries of these datasets to researchers based in the Gulf of Mexico to help them establish monitoring sites. VOLUNTEERING: Please visit the following links for information. Attention: Keep in mind that many of these volunteer efforts require specialized training and protective gear (see links below for more information) because petroleum is toxic to the respiratory system and skin. LA: http://www.volunteerlouisiana.gov/ MS: http://www.volunteermississippi.org/1800Vol/OpenIndexAction.do FL: http://www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org/ AL: http://www.servealabama.gov/2010/default.aspx BP training location for volunteers in Alabama and the Florida panhandle through May 21: http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/gulf_oil_spill/bp-to-hold-oil-spill-clean-up-classes Audubon volunteering program: http://www.audubonaction.org/site/Survey?ACTION_REQUIRED=URI_ACTION_USER_REQUESTSSURVEY_ID=3400 Rescue of oiled birds: http://www.tristatebird.org/ Deepwater Horizon: http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/whc/owcnpdfs/marineresponseflyer.pdf Oiled Wildlife Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=121557757860409v=wall International Bird Rescue Research Center: http://www.ibrrc.org/ Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program: http://www.auduboninstitute.org/about/conservation/lmmstrp Marine Rescue Team: http://rescue.neaq.org/ Oiled Wildlife Care Network Blog: http://owcnblog.wordpress.com/ For more detailed information, you can also visit ESA's Ecotone Taking action post: www.esa.org/esablog/conservation/taking-action-what-is-being-done-and-what-you-can-do-for-the-gulf/ Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax
[ECOLOG-L] Ecotone: Pondering the authority of science
Ecotone: Pondering the authority of science Who says we have to listen to scientists? When President Obama vowed in his inaugural address to “restore science to its rightful place,” where exactly was he talking about? The thou-shalts and self-evident truths on which Americans base so many decisions have little to say about consulting sound science. Still, though science rarely plays a significant role in US policies, it garners a tremendous amount of respect. While we’ve come to define rigorous science by the mechanisms used to ensure impartiality – peer review, quantitative and statistical analyses— even the most punctilious researcher must make decisions based on values: what to study, how to study it, how to talk about it. Who has the authority to make these decisions and what exactly is usable science? A recent workshop and new handbook explore these questions. View the complete post at: http://www.esa.org/esablog/ecology-in-policy/pondering-the-authority-of-science/ Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] Open letter abut IPCC process
Dear Colleagues: We have written an open letter (below) about the IPCC process, media attention, errors, and suggestions for improvement, which we are circulating to both IPCC authors and other scientists in the US. If you would like to be a co-signer of the letter, please send your name and institutional affiliation to Gary Yohe at gy...@wesleyan.edu by close of business, Friday March 12. We plan to send the letter to the State Department, EPA, NOAA, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Council on the Environment and other relevant US agencies and organizations. Because it won't be possible to coordinate multiple versions, we do not plan to edit this letter further at this juncture. However, if you do have comments, please feel free to include them in your email response. Please circulate the open letter to your colleagues if you would like. We apologize for any cross-listings in advance. Best, Gary Yohe Steve Schneider Cynthia Rosenzweig Bill Easterling An Open Letter from Scientists in the United States on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and Errors Contained in the Fourth Assessment Report: Climate Change 2007 Many in the popular press and other media, as well as some in the halls of Congress, are seizing on a few errors that have been found in the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in an attempt to discredit the entire report. None of the handful of mis-statements (out of hundreds and hundreds of unchallenged statements), remotely undermines the conclusion that the planet is warming unequivocally and that most of the observed increase in global average temperatures since the mid-twentieth century is very likely due to observed increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas concentrations. Despite its excellent performance for accurately reporting the state-of-the-science, we certainly acknowledge that the IPCC should become even better, more forthcoming in openly acknowledging errors in a timely fashion, and continuing to improve its assessment procedures to further lower the already very low rate of error. It is our intention in offering this open letter to bring the focus back to credible science, rather than invented hyperbole, so that it can bear on the policy debate in the United States and throughout the world. We first discuss some of the key messages from climate science and then elaborate on IPCC procedures, with particular attention on the quality-control mechanisms of the IPCC. Finally we offer some suggestions about what might be done next to improve IPCC practices and restore full trust in climate science. The Climate Challenge Our understanding of human contributions to climate change and the associated urgency for humans to respond has improved dramatically over the past two decades. Many of the major components of the climate system are now well understood, though there are still some sources of significant uncertainty (like the processes that produce the observed rapid ice-sheet melting and/or collapse in the polar regions). It is now well established, for example, that atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases from human sources have increased rapidly since the Industrial Revolution. Increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere change the heat going into and out of the climate system, i.e., the radiation balance of the earth - and so first principles of physics tell us to expect, with a very high likelihood, that higher temperatures should have been observed. Indeed, measurements of global average temperatures show an increase of about 0.6 degrees C over the past century and about 0.8 degrees C warming since mid-19th century. The pattern of increase has not been smooth or monotonic. There have been several 10- or 15-year periods of stable or declining temperatures over the past 150 years, but 1998 was the warmest (or slightly in second place) year in this period and 11 of the warmest years have been experienced in the 12 years between 1995-2006. Since 1970, observational evidence from all continents and most oceans shows that many natural systems are already being affected by these temperature increases. Because the long-term warming trends demonstrate extraordinarily high statistical significance, the current decadal period of stable global mean temperature does nothing to alter a fundamental conclusion from the AR4: warming has unequivocally been observed and documented. Moreover, well-understood lags in the responsiveness of the climate system to disturbances like greenhouse gas increases mean that the current temperature plateau will very likely not persist much longer. Global climate model projections show that present-day greenhouse gas concentrations have already committed the planet to more than another 1 degree C in warming over the coming decades.
[ECOLOG-L] UCS scientist sign-on letter on REDD
In Copenhagen last December, the United States committed $1 billion over 3 years (2010-2012) to preserving tropical forests. The Union of Concerned Scientists (www.ucsusa.org) has been working with some top ecologists and other scientists to create a letter urging the US to keep this promise by devoting new, additional funds in the next appropriations budget. We will be delivering this letter to Congress in a few short weeks. If you are a US scientist with forest expertise, please consider adding your name. To learn more about the issue, read the letter, see the initial authors and signers, and add your name, please visit: http://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/solutions/forest_solutions/scientists-call-billion-REDD.html Sarah Roquemore Outreach Coordinator Tropical Forest Climate Initiative Climate and Energy Program Union of Concerned Scientists 1825 K Street NW Suite 800 Washington DC 20006-1232 Direct Line: 202-331-5669 Fax: 202-223-6162
[ECOLOG-L] ESA and TWS publish final report on the National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center
ESA Press Release: ESA and TWS publish final report on the National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center Report summarizes the planning process and outlines recommendations The Ecological Society of America (ESA) and The Wildlife Society (TWS) recently published a final report describing the planning process that shaped the National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center (NCCWSC) and outlining recommendations for its structure and function. The NCCWSC, which was established in 2008 by Congress, is intended to help resource managers across the U.S. anticipate the impacts of climate change on plant and animal communities and to help them devise strategies for mitigating and adapting to those impacts. The NCCWSC was created by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the science agency of the Department of Interior. The USGS-sponsored report also details the purpose of the NCCWSC as a conduit between climate science and fish and wildlife management. Wildlife managers need information on the local scale to effectively respond to climate change. The NCCWSC can play a key role in developing and applying that information, and the visibility and credibility of the Center will be enhanced by input from the science community, says Cliff Duke, ESA's Director of Science Programs. I commend USGS for partnering with ESA, The Wildlife Society and the Meridian Institute to develop these recommendations about Center priorities and operations. Staff from TWS, ESA and the Meridian Institute-an internationally recognized organization that provides process design and facilitation for complex issues-helped organize and facilitate a series of workshops to assist in planning the NCCWSC. The workshops were intended to help identify information gaps and research priorities, collaboration strategies and an organizational structure. Establishing the capacity to assess and respond to the impacts of climate change on fish and wildlife is an urgent national priority, says Timothy Mealey, Co-founder and Senior Partner at the Meridian Institute. The USGS is to be commended for reaching out to diverse stakeholders who have both the expertise and the desire to help ensure that this priority is met in an effective manner. We are proud that we could be of assistance to USGS and our partners-TWS and ESA-in helping to bring these stakeholders together for critical input in the launch of the NCCWSC. As outlined in the report, stakeholders from federal and state agencies, tribal organizations, academia and non-governmental organizations, and other project team members, defined specific priorities for and objectives of the Center through a series of workshops which spanned from December 2008 to July 2009. They determined that the NCCWSC should be a conduit between science and resource management-serving as a neutral purveyor of information-and that the efforts of the Center should build upon previous research and knowledge. They also decided it should focus on linking physical climate models with ecological and biological responses, and it should do so by forecasting potential environmental impacts and assessing the vulnerability of species and habitats to climate change using a number of DOI Regional Climate Science Centers. Finally, they recommended that the Center develop a comprehensive plan to reach policymakers and the public and to advance communication within the Center. Working with our partners to complete this complex and exciting project was very gratifying, says Michael Hutchins, Executive Director and CEO of The Wildlife Society. I will be particularly interested to see how recommendations for increased inter-agency collaboration are implemented. Individual federal agencies are used to going it alone and sometimes even competing with one another for limited resources. However, climate change and its potential impact on fish and wildlife resources is too big an issue for any one agency to get its arms around. It is therefore essential that everyone works together amicably and collaboratively. A copy of the Final Report on Outreach Recommendations is available at http://nccw.usgs.gov/documents/TWS-ClimChgReportFINAL.PDF. USGS provides science for a changing world. For more information, visit www.usgs.gov. The Ecological Society of America is the country's primary professional organization of ecologists, representing 10,000 scientists in the United States and around the world. Since its founding in 1915, ESA has pursued the promotion of the responsible application of ecological principles to the solution of environmental problems through ESA reports, journals, research, and expert testimony to Congress. For more information about the Society and its activities, visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org. Founded in 1937, The Wildlife Society (TWS) is an international non-profit association made up of more than 8,000 professionals dedicated to excellence
[ECOLOG-L] 2010 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
2010 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award --Applications due by Monday, February 22, 2010-- The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is pleased to invite applications for its 2010 Graduate Student Policy Award. Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience featuring congressional meetings, briefings by federal agency officials, and networking with other researchers from across the country. The Society’s Graduate Student Policy Award will be given to up to three applicants. Winners will participate in the annual Congressional Visits Event, held over two days on April 21 and 22, 2010. ESA will cover travel and lodging expenses associated with this event. Awardees will also receive a copy of ESA’s congressional directory. Working with other scientific societies, ESA organizes the Congressional Visits Event, which is sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC). Day one includes an afternoon of briefings from key agency and congressional staff and day two features team visits with congressional offices to advocate for support of research and education in the biological sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, February 22, 2010: - A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and any relevant experience - A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for peppering your essay with examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). - A short CV with all contact information. Questions should be directed to Nadine Lymn, ESA Director of Public Affairs at nad...@esa.org or 202.833.8773, ext. 205. Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] Additional info re ESA Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment Internship Available
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is looking for an intern, to be based at its Washington, DC office, to help with the production of one of the Society's journals, Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment (www.frontiersinecology.org). Frontiers is published ten times a year (both in print and online). Ecologists and environmental scientists make up its primary readership. Start date: Negotiable, but with preference for February start date. Hours: Preferably full-time, but flexible (e.g. 20-25 hours weekly minimum). The internship is a great opportunity to learn about the scientific publishing process. Depending on experience and aptitude, the intern will be involved in many different aspects of journal production, including editing/proofreading, writing, podcasting, and image research, as well as other day-to-day activities of the editorial office. The internship includes a stipend of $2750 for 3 months. The successful applicant should have a demonstrated knowledge of ecology, environmental science, or biology, and an interest in, or experience in, publishing or journalism. Application instructions: Resume, cover letter, and two letters of reference should be sent electronically to Dr. Sue Silver, Frontiers Editor-in-Chief (suesil...@esa.org). On e-mail subject line, please state: Frontiers Internship
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment Internship Available
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is looking for an intern, to be based at its Washington, DC office, to help with the production of one of the Society's journals, Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment (www.frontiersinecology.org). Frontiers is published ten times a year (both in print and online). Ecologists and environmental scientists make up its primary readership. The internship is a great opportunity to learn about the scientific publishing process. Depending on experience and aptitude, the intern will be involved in many different aspects of journal production, including editing/proofreading, writing, podcasting, and image research, as well as other day-to-day activities of the editorial office. The internship includes a stipend of $2750 for 3 months. The successful applicant should have a demonstrated knowledge of ecology, environmental science, or biology, and an interest in, or experience in, publishing or journalism. Application instructions: Resume, cover letter, and two letters of reference should be sent electronically to Dr. Sue Silver, Frontiers Editor-in-Chief (suesil...@esa.org). On e-mail subject line, please state: Frontiers Internship
[ECOLOG-L] Managing Ecosystems in a Changing Climate
/Ecosystem Management in a Changing Climate.pdf. Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] Correct link to ESA statement on managing ecosystems under climate change
http://www.esa.org/pao/policyStatements/pdfDocuments/Ecosystem%20Management%20in%20a%20Changing%20Climate.pdf Nadine Lymn Director of Public Affairs Ecological Society of America 1990 M Street, NW Suite 700 Washington DC 20036 202.833.8773 ext. 205 202.833.8775 Fax Please consider the environment before printing this email. Thank you.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Communications Officer Position Opening
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER The Ecological Society of America, a membership organization of 10,000 professional ecological scientists, seeks to fill the position of Communications Officer. Responsibilities include: preparing and distributing press releases on the Society's journals, annual meeting, and other activities of the Society; serving as the primary liaison between journalists and ESA scientists, managing the Society's blog; producing monthly podcasts; managing the press room during ESA's annual meeting; and maintaining a media database. An undergraduate degree is required and training in science is helpful. The ideal candidate will bring at least two years related work experience; excellent verbal and written communications skills; ability to summarize technical scientific information; ability to handle multiple projects; strong interpersonal skills; and computer skills. Knowledge of scientific associations, journalism, and public relations practices are helpful. Candidate must be flexible self-starter with ability to juggle multiple projects. Excellent judgment, interpersonal, and communications skills are critical to this position. The Communications Officer works out of the Society's Washington, DC Headquarters Office. The salary for this full-time position is in the upper $30s. ESA is an EOE and offers excellent employee benefits. To apply, email or mail cover letter, resume, and one writing sample to the attention of ESA Director of Public Affairs (paoj...@esa.org); 1990 M Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036. This position will remain open until filled. No phone calls please.
[ECOLOG-L] Pew request re biodiversity and human health
Dear Ecologers, Most policymakers and members of the media are not aware of the importance of biodiversity to human health and welfare. The Pew Charitable Trusts is taking the next step in this education process by working to give global biodiversity conservation a compelling human dimension. Pew is working to identify individuals across the country who have benefited from medicines that were wholly or partially derived from natural compounds. This could include Vincristine (childhood leukemia); Vinblastine (Hodgkin's disease); Captopril (hypertention and heart failure); Topotecan (various cancers); Irinotecan, Camptosar or CPT-11 (various cancers); Taxol (cancers); Rapamycin (antirejection therapy and cancers); AZT (HIV); Neostigmine (glaucoma); or Protoveratrines (hypertension). If you or someone you know has benefited from one these drugs and are willing to sign a group statement or speak either to the media or to policymakers about the importance of protecting biodiversity, please contact Julie Sherman at Pew (202-887-8820, jsher...@pewtrusts.org). Help give the imperative of biodiversity conservation a human face. Thanks, Jeffrey Wise Director, Global Conservation Initiative Pew Environment Group | The Pew Charitable Trusts 202-887-8827 | jw...@pewtrusts.org
[ECOLOG-L] EPA Vacancy Announcement Opening - Managing LTM/TIME programs
Sent by Dr. Rick Haueber--see contact info below: I am writing to inform you of a job opening in my branch, and I know that you will circulate this announcement to high-qaulity candidates - note that the position closes on 9/18, so applications need to be complete on USAJOBS by that date. The position will be focused on managing the TIME and LTM surface water monitoring programs, which we will be taking over from EPA's Office of Research and Development starting in October. I have pasted below the set of major duties of the position. The position is entry-level, listed at a GS-9 level and is advertised through the Federal Career Intern Program - this program entails a two-year training period. Successul completion of the program is followed by conversion to permanent status. The program is an excellent entry point into the federal work force. Please encourage your current and recent graduates, as well as early-career colleagues, to apply for this position. This is an excellent opportunity to manage and shape an important monitoring program, and contribute to increased use and access of the data by the scientific community. If you have questions, or want to refer folks to me for inquiries, please do so. Email is best as I'll be on vacation next week. Cheers . Acts as Work Assignment Manager and Project Officer, managing contracts, Inter-Agency Agreements, grants and other arrangements to support the TIME and LTM monitoring programs data-gathering and technical analysis activities; . Assists in developing, reviewing, and updating Quality Assurance Project Plans, including standard operating field and lab methods, in accordance with EPA guidelines. . Communicates with the states, tribes, EPA regions, research community and other stakeholders on TIME and LTM projects, activities, and priorities. . Assists in organizing events related to TIME and LTM functioning, such as routine program cooperators' meetings, science and monitoring workshops, or sessions at scientific meetings to present monitoring program results and findings. . Assists in developing and managing a database of TIME and LTM monitoring data and other related environmental data to support EPA program assessment, program cooperators research, and access and use of data by the broad research community and the general public. . Assists in development of TIME and LTM data products and analyses for use in annual CAMD program progress reports and scientific publications. . Assists in preparing briefings on TIME and LTM monitoring, data, and analysis for a wide variety of audiences including the research community; affected industry; and international, national, regional, state, tribal, and local government agencies. Rick Haeuber, Ph.D. USEPA (6204J) Clean Air Markets Division haeuber.rich...@epa.gov 202-343-9250 -Forwarded by Richard Haeuber/DC/USEPA/US on 09/04/2009 09:29AM - To: Richard Haeuber/DC/USEPA/u...@epa, Larry Kertcher/DC/USEPA/u...@epa From: Group Teamvegas Sent by: Lillie Hodge/LV/USEPA/US Date: 09/03/2009 06:49PM cc: Cherie Wright/DC/USEPA/u...@epa Subject: News of Vacancy Announcement Opening The vacancy announcement for the following position is posted to open on USA Jobs, OPM's on-line application system. To be considered for this position, applicants must apply on-line at the USAJobs.gov website by the closing date of the announcement and follow the vacancy announcement instructions for providing any applicable supplemental information. ANNOUNCEMENT #: HQ-OAR-OT-2009-0015 (Federal Career Intern Program) POSITION: Biological Scientist GS-401 Grade 9 OFFICE: OAR/OAP/CAMD/ACB LOCATION: Washington, DC OPENING DATE 9/4/2009 CLOSING DATE: 9/18/2009 To review the vacancy announcement and instructions on how to apply for the position visit the USA Jobs website . Lillie B. Hodge Human Resources Specialist Phone: (702) 798-2412 ___ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, HR Shared Service Center Human Resources Management Division - Las Vegas (Team Vegas) Mail Address: Overnight/Fed-Ex Mail Address: P.O. Box 98516 4220 S. Maryland Parkway, Building A, Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89193-8516 Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
[ECOLOG-L] Re ESA Position Statement
Dear All: In a recent correspondence with an individual concerned about ESA's position statement, ESA Board Member Josh Schimel points out that the Governing Board took very seriously its task of representing 10,000 ecologists and carefully deliberated in issuing the ESA statement. With his permission, I post Josh's correspondence below. Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs The ears were not deaf. On the contrary, they were wide open. We heard and agreed with many of the fundamental points Brian, you and others had been making. But those weren't the only messages coming in and we had to balance those different perspectives. The discussion at the Governing Board meeting was extended, thoughtful, and analytical. There are a number of extraordinarily insightful and concerned people on the board. We all agreed that an ESA statement needed to highlight the conflict between two fundamental truths: 1. Humans in the developing world have a moral right to try to improve their well being. 2. There is a finite capacity of the planet to support humans and increasing resource consumption and waste production will degrade the planetary carrying capacity. Thus, we felt that the statement had to argue that we needed to balance those conflicting truths. As ecologists, we can and should focus on the second--managing the carrying capacity, but we can't tell poor people that they may not improve their living conditions. There are ethical boundaries just as there are ecological boundaries. We didn't feel that we could cross one while arguing that we must not cross the other. So, the key front section starts by highlighting that conflict, and personally I think it does it well: --- The Sustainability of Economic Growth At present, economic growth is a double-edged sword: Although it enhances the standards of living in the short-term, it can degrade the ecological infrastructure needed to sustain long-term welfare. This dichotomy may be humanity's central challenge in the 21st century-sustaining living standards and spreading the benefits of economic development to the large fraction of humanity still mired in poverty, while preserving the ecological life-support system on which future welfare depends. - The whole document is a major redraft from the initial one, which many were unhappy with because a) it focused too much on the right to develop, b) didn't emphasize the carrying capacity issues adequately, and c) read too economic-speak rather than ecological-speak. I.e. we were concerned about the same core issues you and others were highlighting, partly in response to your input. The current document focuses on the risks to ecological systems (and thus the long-term well being of humanity) and the need to manage them rationally. Those are appropriate messages for ecologists to make. However, and this may be where the apparent disagreements arise: does economic growth necessarily require increased resource consumption and environmental degradation? The economists, at least, argue that some types of economic activity actually reduce environmental impact. I think they may be right. The development of hybrid cars, solar cells, etc. all involve economic growth and development, and yet they reduce human impacts on the world (at least where they replace existing technology). Other kinds of growth may enhance our well being without degrading the global support system as well. In terms of your specific concern with the term sustainable growth, I would point out that the term we used was ecologically sustainable growth, which to my mind modifies the concept and helps emphasize that such growth may not be based on increased resource consumption, but may be achievable to some degree with technological change. We are taking a term that is accepted in public discourse and trying to turn the supertanker, rather than stopping it in its tracks. So yes, we didn't in the end endorse a document saying that we must abandon the very concept of sustainable growth. But that isn't because we didn't hear, understand, or even agree with many of your arguments. The Board is considering writing a piece for the Ecol Bulletin to explain more about how this piece came about and how ESA handles position statements. They are always controversial because there is no point issuing a statement on a non-controversial topic.
[ECOLOG-L] 2009 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
2009 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award Applications due by COB, Monday, February 23, 2009 The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is pleased to invite applications for its 2009 Graduate Student Policy Award. Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience featuring congressional meetings, briefings by federal agency officials, and networking with other researchers from across the country. The Society's Graduate Student Policy Award will be given to up to four applicants. Winners will participate in the annual Congressional Visits Event, held over two days on April 21 and 22, 2009. ESA will cover travel and lodging expenses associated with this event. Awardees will also receive a copy of ESA's new congressional directory. Working with other scientific societies, ESA organizes the Congressional Visits Event, which is sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC). Day one includes an afternoon of briefings from key agencies and Congress and an evening reception with other biological scientists, congressional staff, and Members of Congress. Day two features team visits with congressional offices to advocate in support of research and education in the biological sciences. Tune into ESA's podcast, An Ecologist Goes to Washington to hear two of last year's Graduate Student Policy Awardees talk about their experience: http://www.esa.org/podcast/?p=23 Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. To Apply: Send to p...@esa.org by close of business, Monday, February 23, 2009: A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and any relevant experience A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for peppering your essay with examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). A short CV with all contact information. Questions should be directed to Nadine Lymn, ESA Director of Public Affairs at nad...@esa.org or 202.833.8773, ext. 205. Winners will be notified by March 2, 2009.
[ECOLOG-L] 2009 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
2009 ESA Graduate Student Policy Award --Applications due by COB, Monday, February 23, 2009-- The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is pleased to invite applications for its 2009 Graduate Student Policy Award. Offered each year, this award gives graduate students hands-on science policy experience featuring congressional meetings, briefings by federal agency officials, and networking with other researchers from across the country. The Society's Graduate Student Policy Award will be given to up to four applicants. Winners will participate in the annual Congressional Visits Event, held over two days on April 21 and 22, 2009. ESA will cover travel and lodging expenses associated with this event. Awardees will also receive a copy of ESA's new congressional directory. Working with other scientific societies, ESA organizes the Congressional Visits Event, which is sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC). Day one includes an afternoon of briefings from key agencies and Congress and an evening reception with other biological scientists, congressional staff, and Members of Congress. Day two features team visits with congressional offices to advocate in support of research and education in the biological sciences. Tune into ESA's podcast, An Ecologist Goes to Washington to hear two of last year's Graduate Student Policy Awardees talk about their experience: http://www.esa.org/podcast/?p=23 Eligibility: Applicants must be ESA members and United States citizens residing in the country. To Apply: Send to [EMAIL PROTECTED] by close of business, Monday, February 23, 2009: -A cover letter outlining your interest in science policy and any relevant experience -A one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science and ecology in particular. Extra credit for peppering your essay with examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return, particularly for your home state). -A short CV with all contact information. Questions should be directed to Nadine Lymn, ESA Director of Public Affairs at [EMAIL PROTECTED] or 202.833.8773, ext. 205. Winners will be notified by March 2, 2009.
[ECOLOG-L] Seeking Input on how to advance conservation through improved land-use planning
The Environmental Law Institute seeks input on how to advance conservation through improved land-use planning: The input of conservation planners, along with that of public and private sector planners, is being sought for an online survey that aims to identify what is working, as well as the barriers that remain, when it comes to advancing the conservation of wildlife habitat through improved land-use planning and development decisions at the local, county, and state levels. The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes(Go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=t_2bh6lxVVpqpUyZ9inDPgZA_3d_3d) For reference, the survey has been created by the Environmental Law Institute, an independent research and education organization, working in partnership with a team of academics, conservation and planning interests, including NatureServe, The Nature Conservancy, and the National Wildlife Federation. Based on the results of this survey, this team will be developing new tools and/or information resources.
[ECOLOG-L] Re ESA and Economic Growth Statement
Dear Ecologers, As I noted on this list earlier this year, the Ecological Society of America is indeed working to prepare a statement on economic growth. As with all the Society's position statements, ESA takes very seriously the task of producing documents that are carefully reviewed and appropriately reflect the underlying science and the Ecological Society of America. There will be an opportunity for interested members to offer feedback once a draft statement is available and we will notify this list then. ESA appreciates the interest in this topic. Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs Bob's concerns about a professional, scientific society getting involved in economic growth are typical. That's why such concerns have been addressed in numerous publications and other venues. There are sound reasons why the following ecological organizations have adopted positions on economic growth: * The Wildlife Society * American Society of Mammalogists * United States Society for Ecological Economics * British Columbia Field Ornithologists * Society for Conservation Biology (North America Section) * Federation of British Columbia Naturalists - BC Nature Regarding the technical issues raised by Bob, I believe they are all recognized, summarized and addressed in the attached article in press at Conservation Biology, Prospects for reconciling the conflict between economic growth and biodiversity conservation with technological progress. This article is part of a 4-article Conservation Focus series on economic growth in the upcoming December issue, and I have permission for the distribution of these page proofs in this venue. [Update: I discovered that ECOLOG does not accept attachments; interested readers may request the proofs via email.] The political issues raised by Bob are greatly influenced by the technical issues. When an adequate proportion of the public and polity understand the technical nature of the conflict between economic growth and environmental protection, national security, and international stability, the politics fall right into line. That is precisely why it is so important for a scientific society such as the ESA to weigh in. By leaving the technical issues entirely to decision makers lacking sound ecological training and experience, the door is wide open not only for innocent misinformation but for the exceedingly dangerous propaganda that there is no conflict between growing the economy and protecting the environment. Also, it looks like Bob and others may not yet have noticed what is already happening with the politics of economic growth. Climate change, Peak Oil, and financial meltdowns are very rapidly changing the rules of the game. People far and wide are observing the limits to growth in the real sector (including Peak Oil), as reflected in the monetary sector (financial meltdowns). They also see the effects of growth - climate change, pollution of all types, biodiversity loss - eroding their children's future. How can I claim to know this? For one thing, I monitor the news on these political developments. The steady state economy, for example, has picked up as a news item, and dramatically so. For another thing, take a look at the organizations endorsing the CASSE position on economic growth: http://www.steadystate.org/CASSEPositionOnEG.html#anchor_90 http://www.steadystate.org/CASSEPositionOnEG.html#anchor_90 You'll see that it is not only environmental organizations advancing the steady state economy, but child health organizations, businesses, religious groups, local planning groups... even a mutual fund! So I think Bob's concerns - typical as they have been - may already be anachronistic. Perhaps we should be more concerned about the ESA lagging behind and losing an opportunity to be recognized as a progressive leader on the big, policy-relevant issues of ecological sustainability. Brian Czech Natural Resources Program Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University National Capital Region, Northern Virginia Center 7054 Haycock Road, Room 411 Falls Church, Virginia 22043 and Brian Czech, Ph.D., President Center for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy www.steadystate.org http://www.steadystate.org/ Brian Czech, Visiting Assistant Professor Natural Resources Program Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University National Capital Region, Northern Virginia Center 7054 Haycock Road, Room 411 Falls Church, Virginia 22043 From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news on behalf of Robert Miller Sent: Fri 2008-11-21 17:02 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Economic growth Hi List, I'm a little concerned with this emphasis on limiting economic growth
[ECOLOG-L] ESA receives Diversity Leadership Award
Ecological Society of America NEWS For Immediate Release: 7 May 2008 ESA receives Diversity Leadership Award The Ecological Society of America's SEEDS program has won this year's Diversity Leadership Award, administered by the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) http://www.aibs.org/announcements/080507_aibs_honors_diversity_in.html AIBS President Rita Colwell and Executive Director Richard O'Grady praised ESA's program, Strategies for Ecology Education, Development and Sustainability, for its creativity, commitment, and effectiveness in promoting diversity in biology. This is the second award SEEDS has garnered; the program was a recipient of the 2006 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, the highest award of its kind in the United States. With the goal of diversifying and advancing the profession of ecology, the SEEDS program provides a full spectrum of mentoring and learning opportunities to underrepresented undergraduate students. These include SEEDS ecology clubs and chapters, research fellowships, group field trips, and travel to the ESA Annual Meeting where students are assigned a mentor for the duration of the meeting. SEEDS directly serves over 200 students and its chapters serve nearly 2,000 students. These students credit the program with enabling them to pursue a career in ecological science and to forge lasting relationships with both peers and mentors that help support their academic pursuits. In 1992, underrepresented minorities represented 5.7 percent of the Society's membership. In 2006, that number had grown to 11 percent. The number of American Indian/Alaska Native members more than doubled and that of African American members nearly tripled. The Society has made a long-term commitment to continue the mentoring opportunities for students and members alike, particularly those organized and supported at the Society's annual meetings. ESA's SEEDS program will be recognized during the 2008 Annual AIBS meeting on May 12, in Arlington, Virginia. Melissa Armstrong, ESA Diversity Programs Manager, who has worked with SEEDS since 1999, will accept the award on the Society's behalf. The Ecological Society of America is the world's largest professional organization of ecologists, representing 10,000 scientists in the United States and around the globe. Since its founding in 1915, ESA has promoted the responsible application of ecological principles to the solution of environmental problems through ESA reports, journals, research, and expert testimony to Congress. ESA publishes four journals and convenes an annual scientific conference. Visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org.
[ECOLOG-L] Soil Science Society Survey
The Soil Science Society invites ESA members to take part in a Soil Science Society of America survey at http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB227QJZN76FX , developed to identify soils research priorities for use by federal agencies (USDA-CSREES, National Science Foundation, Department of Energy Offices of Science and Fossil Energy, NASA, and others) when developing their annual research budget priorities and requests.It is very important that the stakeholder community participate, if we are to ultimately see real increases in funding for soils research. Thanks so much.
[ECOLOG-L] ESA Press Release: Arctic Marine Mammals on Thin Ice
Arctic Marine Mammals on Thin Ice Experts outline primary risks of climate change to natives of the Arctic The loss of sea ice due to climate change could spell disaster for polar bears and other Arctic marine mammals. The April Special Issue of Ecological Applications examines such potential effects, puts them in historical context, and describes possible conservation measures to mitigate them. The assessment reflects the latest thinking of experts representing multiple scientific disciplines. Sea ice is the common habitat feature uniting these unique and diverse Arctic inhabitants. Sea ice serves as a platform for resting and reproduction, influences the distribution of food sources, and provides a refuge from predators. The loss of sea ice poses a particularly severe threat to Arctic species, such as the hooded seal, whose natural history is closely tied to, and depends on, sea ice. The Arctic undergoes dramatic seasonal transformation. Arctic marine mammals appear to be well adapted to the extremes and variability of this environment, having survived past periods of extended warming and cooling. However, the rate and scale of current climate change are expected to distinguish current circumstances from those of the past several millennia. These new conditions present unique challenges to the well-being of Arctic marine mammals, says Sue Moore (NOAA/Alaska Fisheries Science Center). Climate change will pose a variety of threats to marine mammals. For some, such as polar bears, it is likely to reduce the availability of their prey, requiring them to seek alternate food. Authors Bodil Bluhm and Rolf Gradinger (University of Alaska, Fairbanks) note that while some Arctic marine mammal species may be capable of adjusting to changing food availability, others may be handicapped by their very specific food requirements and hunting techniques. Species such as the walrus and polar bear fall under this category, while the beluga whale and bearded seal are among those who are more opportunistic in their eating habits and therefore potentially less vulnerable, at least in this regard. Using a quantitative index of species sensitivity to climate change, Kristin Laidre (University of Washington) and colleagues found that the most sensitive Arctic marine mammals appear to be the hooded seal, polar bear, and the narwhal, primarily due to their reliance on sea ice and specialized feeding. Shifts in the prey base of Arctic marine mammals would likely lead to changes in body condition and potentially affect the immune system of marine mammals, according to Kathy Burek (Alaska Veterinary Pathology Services). She and fellow researchers point out that climate change may alter pathogen transmission and exposure to infectious diseases, possibly lowering the health of marine mammals and, in the worst case, their survival. Changing environmental conditions, including more frequent bouts of severe weather and rising air and water temperatures, also could impact the health of Arctic marine mammals. The effects of climate change will be compounded by a host of secondary factors. The loss of ice will open the Arctic to new levels of shipping, oil and gas exploration and drilling, fishing, hunting, tourism, and coastal development. These, in turn, will add new threats to marine mammal populations, including ship strikes, contaminants, and competition for prey. Timothy Ragen (US Marine Mammal Commission) and colleagues describe how conservation measures may be able to address the secondary effects of climate change, but that only reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can-over the long-term-conserve Arctic marine mammals and the Arctic ecosystems on which they depend. Ragen talks more about the issue on an Ecological Society of America podcast. Visit http://www.esa.org/podcast/ to listen to this latest edition of ESA's podcast, Field Talk. Lead authors of the collection of papers in the Special Supplement to Ecological Applications are: John Walsh (U. of AK, Fairbanks)--climatological understanding C.R. Harrington (Canadian Museum of Nature)--evolutionary history of arctic marine mammals Maribeth Murray (U. of AK, Fairbanks)--past distributions of arctic marine mammals Gregory O'Corry-Crowe (Southwest Fisheries Science Center)--past and current distributions and behaviors Bodil Bluhm (U. of AK, Fairbanks)--food availability and implications of climate change Kristin Laidre (U. of WA)--sensitivity to climate-induced habitat change Kathy Burek (Alaska Veterinary Pathology Services)--effects on Arctic marine mammal health Grete Havelsrud (Center for International Climate Environmental Research-Oslo)--human interactions Vera Metcalf (Eskimo Walrus Commission, Kawerak)--walrus hunting Sue Moore (NOAA/Alaska Fisheries Science Center)/Henry Huntington (Huntington Consulting)--resilience of Arctic marine mammals to climate change Timothy Ragen (U.S. Marine Mammal Commission)--conservation in context of
Re ESA and Economic Growth Statement
Dear Ecologers, There have been several postings over the last months urging the Ecological Society of America to consider issuing a position statement on economic growth. In addition, a group of ecologists submitted a request to the Governing Board in August, followed by additional letters of interest supporting such a statement. =20 The ESA Governing Board is taking this interest seriously and has asked the Society's Public Affairs Committee to oversee the development of a position statement for its consideration and review.=20 This process is underway and there will be an opportunity for interested members to offer feedback to the proposed statement. In addition, the Public Affairs Office has been collecting the many letters that have already come in offering views on this topic. As with all the Society's position statements, ESA takes very seriously the task of producing documents that are carefully reviewed and appropriately reflect the underlying science and the Ecological Society of America. We will notify this list when a draft is available for comment and appreciate the interest in this topic. Nadine Lymn ESA Director of Public Affairs
ESA Press Release: Nation's Ecological Scientists weigh in on biofuels
For Immediate Release: 10 January 2008 Biofuels Sustainability Nation's ecological scientists weigh in on biofuels The Ecological Society of America, the nation's professional organization of 10,000 ecological scientists, today released a position statement (www.esa.org/pao/policyStatements/#energy) that offers the ecological principles necessary for biofuels to help decrease dependence on fossil fuels and reduce carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global climate change. The Society warns that the current mode of biofuels production will degrade the nation's natural resources and will keep biofuels from becoming a viable energy option. Current grain-based ethanol production systems damage soil and water resources in the U.S. and are only profitable in the context of tax breaks and tariffs, says ESA. Future systems based on a combination of cellulosic materials and grain could be equally degrading to the environment, with potentially little carbon savings, unless steps are taken now that incorporate principles of ecological sustainability. Three ecological principles are necessary: 1) SYSTEMS THINKING: Looking at the complete picture of how much energy is produced versus how much is consumed by extracting and transporting the crops used for biofuels. A systems approach seeks to avoid or minimize undesirable production side effects such as soil erosion and contamination of groundwater. Consistent monitoring is critical to ensure that biofuel production is sustainable. 2) CONSERVATION OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICES: Maximizing crop yield without regard to negative side effects is easy. On the other hand, growing crops and retaining the other services provided by the land is far more challenging, but very much worth the effort. For example, lower yields from an unfertilized native prairie may be acceptable in light of the other benefits, such as minimized flooding, fewer pests, groundwater recharge, and improved water quality because no fertilizer is needed. 3) SCALE ALIGNMENT: How agriculture is managed matters at the individual farm, regional, and global level. Policies must provide incentives for managing land in a sustainable way. They should also encourage the development of biofuels from various sources. The current focus on ethanol from corn illustrates the risks of exploiting a single source of biomass for biofuel production, says ESA. Continuously-grown corn leads to heavy use of fertilizers, early return of land in conservation programs to production, and the conversion of marginal lands to high-intensity cropping. All of these bring with them well-known environmental problems associated with intensive farming: persistent pest insects and weeds, pollution of groundwater, greater irrigation demands, less wildlife diversity, and the release of more carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global climate change. Ironically, one of the touted benefits of biofuels is to help alleviate global climate change, a benefit that is considerably diluted under a high-intensity agriculture scenario. The Ecological Society of America will contribute more to this timely issue in a few months when it convenes a conference (www.esa.org/biofuels) devoted to the ecological dimensions of biofuels. The conference, which will be held on March 10, 2008 in Washington, DC, will bring together a wide variety of experts in the biofuels arena. The conference will cover the various sources of biofuels-agriculture and grasslands, rangelands, and forests-and will encompass the private sector and socioeconomic perspectives. Jose Goldemberg, Global Energy Assessment Council Universidade de Sao Paulo, Brazil, will give the keynote address. Like other organizations, ESA is also concerned about the hardship on the nation's poor communities as higher crop prices drive up the cost of food. It has been said that biofuels have achieved cult-like status and in the rush it is only too easy to overlook the big picture of environmental implications. Iowa alone has planted more than a third of its land surface with corn and, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the federal government has some 20 laws and incentives to boost ethanol use. A biofuels infrastructure that incorporates systems thinking, conserves ecosystem services, and encompasses multiple scales can best serve U.S. citizens, the economy, and the environment. * The Ecological Society of America is the country's primary professional organization of ecologists, representing 10,000 scientists in the United States and around the world. Since its founding in 1915, ESA has pursued the promotion of the responsible application of ecological principles to the solution of environmental problems through ESA reports, journals, research, and expert testimony to Congress. For more information about the Society and its activities, visit the ESA website at http://www.esa.org.
ESA lauded for greeening its meeting
The Ecological Society of America and its Meetings Manager, Michelle Horton, are featured in an article appearing in the December issue of Convene, a meetings industry magazine. The article titled Walking the Talk notes that When the Ecological Society of America gets together, it tends to raise the sustainability bar for the rest of the meetings industry. Click here to read the entire article http://archive.pcma.org/conv/nov07/Green%20Pages%2080.pdf
AMS-UCAR Congressional Science Fellowship
2008-2009 AMS-UCAR Congressional Science Fellowship The American Meteorological Society (AMS) and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) seek candidates with backgrounds in the Earth sciences for the 2007-2008 AMS-UCAR Congressional Science Fellowship. Fellows participate in the legislative process by joining a Congressional office of their choosing in the United States Senate or House of Representatives. Typical duties include developing legislation, negotiating legislative compromises, writing speeches and briefing memos, meeting with constituents, and conducting background research. The AMS-UCAR Congressional Science Fellow joins more than 100 other fellows through the AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowship Program. Fellows must be US citizens and complete all requirements for their Ph.D. prior to the start of the fellowship year, which runs from September 1, 2007 through August 31, 2008. Support includes a $50,000 stipend, and up to $10,000 for moving, travel, health care, and other expenses. Applications must be submitted by 1 February 2008. Details are available at www.ametsoc.org/CSF. For additional information contact Paul Higgins ([EMAIL PROTECTED]).
Update re SREL
Thanks to the efforts of many individuals, there seems to be a promising development regarding the proposed closure of the Department of Energy's Savannah River Ecology Lab. See below or visit: http://science.house.gov/press/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=1831 Press Releases :: May 16, 2007 Miller and Lampson Challenge Proposal to End Funding for Savannah River Ecology Lab (Washington, DC) The Investigations and Oversight (IO) Subcommittee and the Energy and Environment (EE) Subcommittee of the House Committee on Science and Technology today called on Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman to continue funding for the Savannah River Ecology Lab. The mission of the lab is to study effects of the Savannah River Nuclear Weapons facility on the surrounding environment. It has been recognized internationally as a leader in radiation ecology and a training ground for future scientists and engineers in the field. We are currently unsure why and how the decision was made to terminate the Department's support for the facility, wrote IO Subcommittee Chairman Brad Miller (D-NC). We ask that you continue to provide support to the lab until the Committee can thoroughly review the Department's actions in this case. The Subcommittees deserve a chance to review the logic that led DOE to terminate support for a lab that has been doing world-class research since 1951, added EE Subcommittee Chairman Nick Lampson (D-TX). On the face of it, this is a difficult action to understand. Miller and Lampson called the lab indispensable in tracking the environmental conditions around the Savannah River site and providing unbiased information to the public and the government about those conditions. The Chairmen have asked for continued support for the lab from DOE pending further review by the Subcommittee. They have also asked that the Department provide all records since August 1, 2006 regarding the lab and the decision to terminate support. A major benefit of the Savannah River Ecology Lab has been its long-term research and steady accumulation of detailed field records than can provide insights into, among other things, the possible consequences of climate change on the complex ecology of the region. Read the letter from the Chairmen to Secretary Bodman by clicking here. ### http://science.house.gov/press/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=1831
ESA MAMAS Contest
BEST MAMAS CONTEST The Ecological Society of America's Public Affairs Committee announces its second contest for the best MAMAS (Maxims, Analogies, Metaphors, Anecdotes, Similes) to communicate ecological knowledge 1st Prize: Full refund of San Jose Annual Meeting registration 2nd Prize: One year ESA membership online subscription to journals 3rd Prize: ESA t-shirt travel mug Best Student Prize: One year ESA membership, includes Frontiers journal Background: After last year's successful first contest, the Society's Public Affairs Committee is again this year offering an opportunity to win great prizes in exchange for memorable 'MAMAS.' Last year's winners were published in the ESA Bulletin. Explaining the complexity of ecological systems to policy makers and the public is challenging for ecologists. The Committee is again hosting an evening session at the Annual Meeting in August that will address the use of analogies, metaphors, anecdotes, etc. to explain complex ecological principles. The session will include seasoned ecologists with a flair for using MAMAS and will center on the best submissions received via this contest. To participate: Entries should be no more than one page in length and should feature your favorite Maxim, Analogy, Metaphor, Anecdote, or Simile as it relates to the science of ecology. Please indicate the source (whether it is your own or if it is accredited to someone else) and the context in which it has been effectively used (e.g. during a radio interview; before a Rotary Club, in a lecture hall). Submissions should include full name and all contact information. ESA student members are especially encouraged to participate in this competition. Members of the Public Affairs Committee will presort all entries and the top 10 finalists will be highlighted during the Annual Meeting Evening Session, Ecological Analogies, Metaphors, Anecdotes on Monday, August 6, 8 - 10 PM. Prize winners will also be announced. The Goal: We hope to create an on-line database, searchable by topic, which will be available to all ESA members for use in outreach activities. All sources of the best MAMAS will be acknowledged. Definitions: Maxims - a pithy statement of general wisdom, e.g. where there's smoke, there's fire Analogies - comparing similarities between things otherwise unlike, e.g. hot is to cold as fire is to ice Metaphors -implied comparison, e.g. All the world's a stage Anecdotes - Personal experience/story Simile - an explicit comparison, e.g. Her tears flowed like wine Submit your entry by Friday, July 6, 2007 to [EMAIL PROTECTED] You will be contacted by late July if your submission is a finalist to be presented at the Evening Session during the Annual Meeting.
ESA Fall Policy Internship
ESA Fall Policy Internship The Ecological Society of America, a nonprofit, scientific organization of nearly 10,000 ecological scientists, offers a 3-month, paid ($3,000 stipend), Fall Policy Internship in its Washington, DC office. With a start date of September 4, 2007 the Policy Intern will help the Society's Public Affairs Office track environmental legislation and proposed rule changes, will attend hearings and other relevant meetings, and assist with Hill events. In addition, the Policy Intern will work closely with the Society's Policy Analyst and team of expert scientists in facilitating scientific input to policy issues. Applicants should have a background in the environmental sciences with a strong interest in the application of science to policy issues. Good communication skills and flexibility are a plus. To apply, email or fax by July 9, 2007 cover letter and resume to [EMAIL PROTECTED] or fax: 202.833.8775.
Action Alert - Call House Today About NSF Reauthorization
Action Alert - Call House Today About NSF Reauthorization The House of Representatives plans to consider HR 1867, legislation to authorize the National Science Foundation (NSF), TODAY (Wednesday, 2 May 2007). HR 1867 would authorize the programs and potential funding levels for the NSF through fiscal year (FY) 2010. Reports indicate that as many as 12 amendments may be offered to HR 1867, which was crafted by the House Science Committee. The science policy community is concerned with these amendments as they would micro-manage NSF or subvert the peer-review process. Thus, scientists are encouraged to CALL their US Representative today to urge them to oppose all amendments to HR 1867. You may confirm who your member of the House is by visiting www.house.gov and entering your zip code. You are encouraged to call your Representative's Washington, DC office directly. Alternatively, you may contact the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 or 800-828-0498 and ask to be transferred to your Representative's office.
FW: Action Alert - Clarification to Call House Today About NSF Reauthorization
To clarify this previously sent action alert--not all the proposed amendments are a problem. The ones that are a problem are listed below. Congress should not be in the business of reviewing grant proposals. This is what peer review is for and peer review has proven to be very effective over the years. Rep. Campbell (R-CA) The amendment would prohibit funds from being used to research related to the archives of Andean Knotted-String Records, the accuracy in the cross-cultural understanding of other's emotions, bison hunting on the late prehistoric Great Plains, team versus individual play, sexual politics of waste in Dakar, Senegal, social relationships and reproductive strategies of Phayre's Leaf Monkeys, and cognitive model of superstitious belief. Rep. Garrett (R-NJ) The amendment would prohibit funds from being used to research relating to the reproductive aging symptom experience at midlife among Bangladeshi immigrants, Sedentees, and White London Neighbors, and the diet and social stratification in ancient Puerto Rico. -Original Message- From: Nadine Lymn Sent: Wednesday, May 02, 2007 2:08 PM To: 'ecolog-l@listserv.umd.edu' Subject: Action Alert - Call House Today About NSF Reauthorization Action Alert - Call House Today About NSF Reauthorization The House of Representatives plans to consider HR 1867, legislation to authorize the National Science Foundation (NSF), TODAY (Wednesday, 2 May 2007). HR 1867 would authorize the programs and potential funding levels for the NSF through fiscal year (FY) 2010. Reports indicate that as many as 12 amendments may be offered to HR 1867, which was crafted by the House Science Committee. The science policy community is concerned with these amendments as they would micro-manage NSF or subvert the peer-review process. Thus, scientists are encouraged to CALL their US Representative today to urge them to oppose all amendments to HR 1867. You may confirm who your member of the House is by visiting www.house.gov and entering your zip code. You are encouraged to call your Representative's Washington, DC office directly. Alternatively, you may contact the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 or 800-828-0498 and ask to be transferred to your Representative's office.
ESA Graduate Student Policy Award
ESA Graduate Student Policy Award If you're a graduate student and ESA member interested in learning first-hand about the federal funding 'game' that happens every year in Washington, DC, you may wish to apply for the Ecological Society of America's Graduate Student Policy Award to attend a two-day Capitol Hill event. In these budget-deficit times, the competition for scarce federal dollars has grown ever stiffer and ecological scientists must make an extra effort to be heard. Open to all ESA graduate student members, this award will be given to up to two applicants for a special two-day event on April 18 and 19, 2007. ESA will cover travel and lodging expenses associated with this event. ESA works with several other scientific societies to organize this annual event, which is sponsored by the Biological Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC). Awardees will participate in an afternoon of briefings from the Administration and Congress. An evening reception will feature many other biological scientists, congressional staff, and Members of Congress. Day two will feature several team visits with congressional offices to advocate for support of the biological sciences. To Apply: Submit by close of business, Monday, March 5, 2007, a one-page statement that reflects your insights and perspective on the importance of federal support of science in general and ecology in particular. Extra credit for peppering your essay with examples of ecological success stories (i.e. where investment of federal dollars had a tangible return). Please include also a short CV with all contact information. Apply via email ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) fax 202.833.8775 or mail 1707 H Street, NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20006. Winners will be notified by March 7, 2007. Questions should be directed to Nadine Lymn at [EMAIL PROTECTED] or 202.833.8773, ext. 205.
Candidate Search: NSF Assistant Director for Geosciences
For more information about the search criteria and position see: http://www.nsf.gov/od/searches/geo-070112/nsf_adgeo_search_letter.jsp Subject: Candidate Search: Assistant Director for Geosciences January 12, 2007 Dear Colleague: We are initiating a national search for an Assistant Director for Geosciences (GEO), to be appointed June 1, 2007, and we seek your assistance in the identification of candidates. Dr. Margaret Leinen has served in this position with great distinction since 2000. The Assistant Director, GEO, manages a Directorate comprised of three divisions -- Atmospheric Sciences, Earth Sciences, and Ocean Sciences -- and also provides leadership and guidance to multiple international and interagency programs in the geosciences. Enclosed is an information sheet that summarizes the Directorate's activities and the responsibilities of the position, together with the criteria that will be used in the search. Employment may be on a temporary or permanent basis in the Federal Service or by temporary assignment under provisions of the Intergovernmental Personnel Act. We are very pleased to announce that Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Wayne and Gladys Valley Professor of Marine Biology Distinguished Professor of Zoology at Oregon State University, has agreed to head the Screening Committee. We and the Committee seek your help in identifying candidates with outstanding leadership qualifications, a deep sense of scholarship, a grasp of the issues facing research and education in the geosciences, and the ability to serve effectively as a key member of the NSF policy and management team. We are especially interested in identifying women, members of minority groups, and persons with disabilities for consideration. Recommendations of individuals from any sector - academe, industry, or government - are welcome. Please send your recommendations, including any supporting information which you might be able to provide, to AD/GEO Screening Committee via e mail ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) or at the following address: National Science Foundation, Office of the Director, Suite 1205, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22230. We would appreciate receiving them by March 31, 2007. Arden L. Bement, Jr. NSF Director Kathie L. Olsen, NSF Deputy Director
Time sensitve re NSF your action requested
Now is the time for constituents who support an increase in the NSF budget to urge their representative to sign a letter to House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey (D-WI) and Ranking Minority Member Jerry Lewis (R-CA). Time is of the essence: the deadline for signatures is tomorrow, Friday, January 12. Yesterday, Rep. Vern Ehlers (R-MI), House Science and Technology Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN), and Rep. Rush Holt (D-NJ) sent a Dear Colleague letter to all representatives urging them to sign a letter to Obey and Lewis supporting President Bush's $6.02 billion request for the National Science Foundation. The House passed its version of the FY 2007 Science, State, Justice Commerce Appropriations Bill that would fully fund this request on June 29 by the overwhelming vote of 393-23 (16 not voting.) In July, Senate appropriators passed their version of this bill providing almost the entire request, but the Senate leadership never scheduled floor time for the consideration of the bill. Congress adjourned in late December without taking action on this bill, providing stopgap, level funding for NSF and other affected agencies through February 15. In December, Chairman Obey and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Robert Byrd (D-WV) announced that they would support legislation continuing FY 2006 funding, in almost all instances, through September 30. Under this arrangement, NSF would lose between $410 and $439 million (depending on what version of the funding bill was used.) Under the President's budget request, the foundation's funding rate would increase from 20% to 21%, growing from 6,190 grants to a projected 6,760 research grants. Annual award size would increase; the average duration of research grants would remain unchanged at 3.0 years. Another projection shows the total number of people involved in NSF activities, ranging from K-12 students and teachers to senior researchers would increase from an estimated 171,080 to 177,485. The deadline for signatures on the Ehlers/Gordon/Holt letter to Chairman Obey and Ranking Member Lewis in support of the $6.02 billion NSF request is tomorrow, Friday, January 12. Members of Congress receive many Dear Colleague letters every day asking for their signature on letters such as this. Expressions of constituent interest are critical in getting such a letter acted upon. The telephone number for the switchboard of the U.S. House of Representatives is 202-224-3121. The name of your representative is easily located by using the search box in the header at http://www.house.gov/ The complete text of this letter follows: The Honorable David Obey Chairman Committee on Appropriations H-218 Capitol Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Jerry Lewis Ranking Member Committee on Appropriations H-218 Capitol Washington, DC 20515 Dear Chairman Obey and Ranking Member Lewis: Thank you very much for your leadership in increasing federal funding for basic science research. As supporters of scientific research and education, we respectfully ask that you single out the National Science Foundation (NSF) as a priority in your fiscal year 2007 Continuing Resolution appropriations legislation. Specifically, we request that you fund NSF at the House-passed, President's requested level of $6.02 billion in fiscal year 2007. This is essential, because the flat funding for this agency under the Continuing Resolution will directly inhibit our national competitiveness and jeopardize American innovation. The NSF is an agency that has suffered budget stagnation in recent years and even a budget cut in fiscal year 2005. We have not managed to come close to the doubling path for NSF set out in the 2002 Authorization Act. This year, however, we were heartened that the budget request for the NSF included a substantial increase for the high-leverage fields of physical sciences and engineering as part of the proposed American Competitiveness Initiative (ACI). This boost in funding would allow for new innovative technologies to be developed by NSF-funded scientists and engineers. The full House and Senate appropriators supported the requested increase for NSF in the FY07 appropriations bills. Our colleagues understood that the increase represented a significant down-payment toward the goal of enhancing U.S. global competitiveness by investing in basic science research. The NSF is the major source of federal funding in many fields such as the basic sciences, mathematics, computer science and the social sciences, and it funds approximately 20 percent of all federally-supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities. If Congress provides only flat funding, peer-reviewed basic science research will suffer all across the country. NSF-funded researchers have won more than 170 Nobel Prizes and pioneered innovations that have improved quality of life of all Americans. Additionally, NSF consistently earns top scores in all of the Administration's
