Probably somewhere in the middle of these two opposing views lies the truth. While there have been some notable examples of endangered species studies that were extremely self-serving, the potential impact of WNS on bats and other related members of the cave ecosystem are extraordinarily severe. Given the gravity of the situation, I favor funding responsible research agencies that may help in future, if not the present, species die-offs. It may be too late to save the bats from WNS, but learning how to contain and manage future pandemics has potential payoffs that are far reaching. Jerry. In a message dated 7/24/2010 7:23:43 A.M. Central Standard Time, [email protected] writes:
Bill, I can always count on you for a cynical and clueless rant about conservation and endangered species. The whole "endangered species biologists are involved in a money-making scheme" is my favorite. Look at their shoes, Bill. Those people ain't got no money. Andy Andrew G. Gluesenkamp, Ph.D. 700 Billie Brooks Drive Driftwood, Texas 78619 (512) 799-1095 [email protected] --- On Fri, 7/23/10, Mixon Bill <[email protected]> wrote: From: Mixon Bill <[email protected]> Subject: [Texascavers] WNS money To: "Cavers Texas" <[email protected]> List-Post: [email protected] Date: Friday, July 23, 2010, 6:48 PM In my view, tax dollars for WNS research is just special-interest pork for "WNS scientists" and their assistants. What, realistically, might be discovered that is actually useful to _bats_, not just a few people's wallets? Hard to absolutely prove nothing, but I wouldn't bet a nickel of my own money on it. Read Tom Aley's article in the February NSS News about possible WNS management strategies. Aley does recommend more research, but then he has to--he's a member of the scientists' union. If you do write, don't just copy that letter. Most congressmen aren't stupid, despite all appearances to the contrary, and they spot a letter-writing campaign for what it's worth. -- Mixon
