Field Ecologist AND GIS Consultant positions, Irvine, CA

2007-08-10 Thread Jenny Briggs
The Irvine Ranch Land Reserve Trust (http://www.irlrtrust.org), Orange
County, CA, is seeking a Conservation GIS Consultant as well as a
Field Ecologist (both position descriptions are below).

The announcement for the Field Ecologist has been revised slightly
from the version posted to the Ecolog list-serv on 8/4/07. The current
announcement does not contain a requirement for GIS experience. If you
already replied to the previous announcement, there is no need to do
so again, but if you are interested, please review the current
description before applying.

Contact David Olson, [EMAIL PROTECTED], with application materials
and any questions you may have about either position.

***POSITION #1

JOB TITLE: FIELD ECOLOGIST
FLSA STATUS:  Exempt
REPORTS TO: Director of Science & Stewardship, David Olson

CORE FUNCTIONS:

Field-oriented natural resource management position, responsible for
planning, coordinating and implementing activities related to the
Trust's mission to encourage the highest quality stewardship of the
permanently protected Irvine Ranch wildlands. Includes species and
habitat monitoring, exotic species control, habitat restoration, fire
and fuels management, review of trail project design and assisting
with field trips and volunteer workdays. Assists landowners with
Natural Communities Conservation Plan compliance, as well as
developing and implementing resource management plans.  Coordinates
with regional scientific teams and individuals, and plans and directs
or leads preserve management teams. May recruit and supervise seasonal
staff and interns, and supervise professional consultants and
contractors. Serves on the Science and Resource Management team of the
Trust and provide consultation and advice to other projects as
appropriate. May serve as lead or participant in multi-organizational
scientific teams and partnerships, and will work closely with
partners.


KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:
•   Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, natural resources management
or similar field and 3 to 5 years related work experience in land
management.   Master's degree preferred.
•   Knowledge of general ecological principles and experience with basic
experimental design and field sampling.  Ability to conduct and/or
direct resource management field work, and evaluate habitat conditions
and trends.
•   Experience with statistical and computer analysis of a variety of
environmental data on natural communities.
•   Familiarity with the biological systems, flora, and fauna of the
California South Coast ecoregion.
•   Knowledge of the Natural Communities Conservation Planning program
and biological compliance requirements.
•   Successful experience developing, directing and managing multiple
projects and timelines.
•   Experience in safe use and maintenance of field tools and equipment.
•   Familiarity with remote sensing and geographic information systems
and analysis.
•   Knowledge of current trends in conservation and land management
including urban ecology.
•   Foreign language skills (Spanish) desirable.

DECISION-MAKING/PROBLEM SOLVING:
•   Design, implement and direct projects, setting deadlines and
ensuring high quality outcomes.
•   Ability to make or recommend sometimes complex scientific decisions
relative to species and habitat conservation in consultation with
supervisors and colleagues.
•   Ability to compile, organize and use scientific information in
decision-making.
•   Experience developing creative approaches and strategies to conserve
natural communities and their components.

COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL:
•   Good communication and presentation skills.
•   Experience preparing clear, accurate reports and documents.
•   Ability to manage group processes and objectives and to participate
constructively on multi-disciplinary teams.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:
•   Work frequently involves physical exertion, variable weather
conditions, and demanding field circumstances with exposure to
disagreeable elements in an open space setting.
•   Frequent travel within immediate/local area. Willingness to work
variable hours appropriate to project objectives.

CONTACT: Please send letter of interest and Curriculum Vitae to David
Olson ([EMAIL PROTECTED]).

The Irvine Ranch Land Reserve Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer



POSITION #2: CONSERVATION GIS CONSULTANT

Irvine Ranch Land Reserve Trust (http://www.irlrtrust.org) Orange County, CA

We are seeking a creative, motivated, team-oriented Conservation GIS
Specialist. This position is responsible for coordinating and
implementing GIS-related analysis and research for the 50,000-acre
Irvine Ranch Wildlands. Major projects are to: 1) map

Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread Wayne Tyson
First, the rationale for using 4wd for ecological research is that 
"we" are in a race to the top in a world that is racing to the bottom 
(but doesn't know it).  So, "it's relative."

4wd is primarily valuable as a safety feature.  As one who once drove 
a USFS 2wd pickup over logging roads and firebreaks in deep dust, 
gravel, rocks, boulders and snow for uncounted miles, I can say that 
a lot can be done with 2wd, snow tires, and a few sacks to fill with 
dirt--combined with a Handyman-type jack, strong cable, shovel, axe, 
Pulaski, and McCloud for when the 2wd (or the driver's) limitations 
were exceeded.  4wd is safer because of the traction, but it also can 
get one into a lot of trouble because it leads one to go where you 
probably wouldn't venture in a 2wd.  The driver again.  One time I 
drove out a little too far (testing the traction in reverse every few 
feet) on the breaks of the Feather River's Middle Fork (squaw mat 
growing in scree on top of granite) until there was no traction.  The 
grade transitions seductively gently along a classic (inverted) 
exponential curve to the vertical.  I had the sense to walk the crew 
out (20 or more miles to any hope of help), but we luckily found some 
engineers with a radio, and all I suffered was the embarassment of 
having to be winched out by a fire truck hours later.  In a 4wd, I 
might have been able to back out (particularly if I had the sense to 
drive IN with 2wd, leaving the 4wd to get me OUT), or I might have 
foolishly gone on until I slid several hundred feet to the river.

The real answer is, I rarely use the 4wd, but when 2wd can't cut it, 
4wd can get me out.  But it will not save a fool from his folly.

WT

At 04:33 PM 8/9/2007, Malcolm McCallum wrote:
>Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about which
>SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
>suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really don't
>need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???
>
>Just stoking the fire here!
>
>
>On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
> > Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
> > a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
> > these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
> > the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
> > the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
> > front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
> > than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
> > transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
> > wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
> > cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
> > We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
> > from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
> > troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
> > expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
> > (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
> > ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
> > loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
> > fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
> > range.
> > Mike Marsh
> >> Subject:
> >> Re: field-worthy SUV
> >> From:
> >> William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> >> Date:
> >> Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
> >>
> >>
> >> I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
> >> by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
> >>
> >> Bill Silvert
> >>
> >> - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> >> To: 
> >> Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
> >> Subject: field-worthy SUV
> >>
> >>
> >>> Hi folks,
> >>>
> >>> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
> >>> mid-sized
> >>> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
> >>> and
> >>> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
> >>> off-roading. A
> >>> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
> >>> of the
> >>> smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
> >>> strong
> >>> plus.
> >>>
> >>> Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
> >>> experience in
> >>> the field?
> >>>
> >>> Thanks,
> >>>
> >>> Robert
> >
>
>
>Malcolm L. McCallum
>Assistant Professor of Biology
>Editor Herpetological Conservationa and Biology
>[EMAIL PROTECTED]
>[EMAIL PROTECTED]


Graduate Assistantship in Plant Ecology at MS State Univ

2007-08-10 Thread Gary N. Ervin
A graduate assistantship in plant ecology is available as part of an 
interdisciplinary workgroup aimed at developing integrative management 
approaches for key invasive species in the Mid-South US.  Work to date has 
focused primarily on projects related to the invasive cactus moth (Cactoblastis 
cactorum, an introduced herbivore of native prickly pear cacti - Opuntia  spp.) 
and the terrestrial invasive cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica).  The workgroup 
includes expertise in remote sensing, invasive plant management, and plant 
ecology, among others, and is housed in the MSU GeoResources Institute.  

The specific research for which applications are being solicited involves 
habitat modeling for prickly pear or cogongrass, and the student would be 
expected to contribute directly to data collection in support of USDA- and 
USGS-funded research. The student would be based in the plant ecology 
laboratory of Dr. Gary Ervin, in the Department of Biological Sciences.  
Related expertise in the Department includes plant systematics, evolutionary 
biology, spatial ecology, ecological modeling, and population genetics.

Please see full announcement linked through: 
http://www.msstate.edu/courses/ge14/



~~
Gary N Ervin, Associate Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
PO Box GY
Mississippi State, MS 39762  USA

on the web at:  http://www.msstate.edu/courses/ge14/

for parcel delivery:
Department of Biological Sciences
130 Harned Biology
295 Lee Boulevard
Miss State, MS 39762

Office: Room 223 Harned Biology Bldg.
Tel.: (662) 325-1203
lab : (662) 325-7937
FAX : (662) 325-7939 
~~


Four wheel drive vehicles are a REQUIREMENT for most field projects!

2007-08-10 Thread Michael E. Welker
All,

Most of the herp projects I have worked on have required four wheel drive 
vehicles.  Some of the PI's I have worked for were so inexperienced in field 
work that they "didn't realize" that a four wheel drive was a necessity. 
Many of the others tried to get by with "very used" four wheel drives 
because they didn't put enough money in their grant to get a decent field 
vehicle.  And on some projects they wanted us to drive our personal four 
wheel drive vehicle.  I would suggest the following:

1.  Put enough money in your grant to get what you need and consider those 
that will be in the field.  Don't skimp on the resources it takes to get the 
job done!
2.  Any off road project requires four wheel drive.  Even dirt roads 
(especially NF roads) become very muddy during rains and many also have 
sugar sand.
3.  If you are not inexperienced enough with field projects to plan properly 
get some advice.
4.  Get out of your lab and go to the field sites.  Things look great on 
paper but that doesn't mean they work in the real world.
5.  It is not your research techs job to provide a field vehicle it is 
yours!

Take Care,

Michael E. Welker
Herpetologist / Wildlife Scientist
3105 Eads Place
El Paso, Texas 79935
(915) 595-8831 home
(352) 256-4000 cell
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


- Original Message - 
From: "Malcolm McCallum" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2007 5:33 PM
Subject: Re: Field-worthy SUV


> Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about which
> SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
> suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really don't
> need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???
>
> Just stoking the fire here!
>
>
> On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
>> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
>> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
>> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
>> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
>> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
>> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
>> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
>> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
>> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
>> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
>> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
>> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
>> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
>> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
>> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
>> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
>> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
>> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
>> range.
>> Mike Marsh
>>> Subject:
>>> Re: field-worthy SUV
>>> From:
>>> William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>>> Date:
>>> Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
>>>
>>>
>>> I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
>>> by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
>>>
>>> Bill Silvert
>>>
>>> - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>>> To: 
>>> Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
>>> Subject: field-worthy SUV
>>>
>>>
 Hi folks,

 This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
 mid-sized
 SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
 and
 off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
 off-roading. A
 good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
 of the
 smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
 strong
 plus.

 Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
 experience in
 the field?

 Thanks,

 Robert
>>
>
>
> Malcolm L. McCallum
> Assistant Professor of Biology
> Editor Herpetological Conservationa and Biology
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] 


Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread David C Baker
We probably don't need 4WD very often, but in my experience, finding out
you need 4WD when you are out in the remote field in a 2WD proves very
inconvenient.
Safe driving!
david

David Baker, Ecologist
Central Oregon Interagency Ecology Program
Deschutes National Forest
1001 SW Em Kay Dr.
Bend, OR 97702
(541) 383-5424


"postdoctoral vacancy"

2007-08-10 Thread Pejman Rohani
*POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE*
School of Ecology, University of Georgia, USA

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral assistantship in Population 
Ecology.  The position will focus on the study of co-evolutionary 
dynamics in a laboratory host-parasitoid and host-pathogen system.  The 
protagonist species are the Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella), 
its ichneumonid parasitoid (Venturia canescens) and the virus (PiGV).  
The work, carried out in collaboration with Dr Steven Sait (University 
of Leeds, UK), will place a strong emphasis on designing lab experiments 
to test theoretical predictions and the analysis of long-term 
time-series data.

The successful applicant would have a PhD in Ecology & Evolution.  The 
position is for 18 months in the first instance, with a salary in the 
range of $32-40,000 per year (depending on experience), plus fringe 
benefits.


For further information, contact Pej Rohani +1 706 542 9249, e-mail: 
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


Applicants should send a detailed CV, together with a brief statement of 
research interests and three references to Pej Rohani, Institute of 
Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602.  Electronic 
applications are encouraged.


Review of applications will start on August 20 and will continue until 
the post has been filled.


Re: Four wheel drive vehicles are a REQUIREMENT for most field projects!

2007-08-10 Thread Malcolm McCallum
Yes, their are field projects in which they are necessary, however, saying
most is completely not true.  In fact, if your car is not leaving the road
then no you don't need 4 wheel.  Many field projects do not require 4
wheel.  Thus far, I have been involved in about a dozen field research
projects such as inventories and status surveys that did not require 4
wheel drive.  In fact, four wheel would have been useless since all travel
off of the roads had to be done on foot because the national parks would
not allow driving off of the roads!  In other cases the terrain made
driving off road virtually impossible.  In these cases, good hiking boots
were far more useful than 4 wheel drive.

Having said this, many years ago I did an inventory for the US Army and 4
wheel was very useful and frankly needed.

MLM

On Fri, August 10, 2007 12:10 pm, Michael E. Welker wrote:
> All,
>
> Most of the herp projects I have worked on have required four wheel drive
> vehicles.  Some of the PI's I have worked for were so inexperienced in
> field
> work that they "didn't realize" that a four wheel drive was a necessity.
> Many of the others tried to get by with "very used" four wheel drives
> because they didn't put enough money in their grant to get a decent field
> vehicle.  And on some projects they wanted us to drive our personal four
> wheel drive vehicle.  I would suggest the following:
>
> 1.  Put enough money in your grant to get what you need and consider those
> that will be in the field.  Don't skimp on the resources it takes to get
> the
> job done!
> 2.  Any off road project requires four wheel drive.  Even dirt roads
> (especially NF roads) become very muddy during rains and many also have
> sugar sand.
> 3.  If you are not inexperienced enough with field projects to plan
> properly
> get some advice.
> 4.  Get out of your lab and go to the field sites.  Things look great on
> paper but that doesn't mean they work in the real world.
> 5.  It is not your research techs job to provide a field vehicle it is
> yours!
>
> Take Care,
>
> Michael E. Welker
> Herpetologist / Wildlife Scientist
> 3105 Eads Place
> El Paso, Texas 79935
> (915) 595-8831 home
> (352) 256-4000 cell
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
>
> - Original Message -
> From: "Malcolm McCallum" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: 
> Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2007 5:33 PM
> Subject: Re: Field-worthy SUV
>
>
>> Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about
>> which
>> SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
>> suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really
>> don't
>> need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???
>>
>> Just stoking the fire here!
>>
>>
>> On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
>>> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty
>>> nowadays)
>>> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
>>> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
>>> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers
>>> in
>>> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
>>> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
>>> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
>>> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for
>>> 4
>>> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
>>> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
>>> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
>>> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
>>> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
>>> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
>>> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns
>>> (well
>>> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
>>> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
>>> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
>>> range.
>>> Mike Marsh
 Subject:
 Re: field-worthy SUV
 From:
 William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
 Date:
 Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100


 I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
 by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the
 like.

 Bill Silvert

 - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
 To: 
 Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
 Subject: field-worthy SUV


> Hi folks,
>
> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
> mid-sized
> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
> and
> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
> off-roading. A
> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (wh

PCA Axis Scaling

2007-08-10 Thread David Kidd
Dear all,

I wish to calculate overlap between areas and volumes in a PCA space. Do I
weight the axis by the amount of variation explained or is it more complicated?

All variables have been standardized.

Many Thanks
David Kidd


Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread Jim Boone
"How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???"

Take it from a old desert rat, it isn't how often you shift into 4WD, it is how 
often you get stopped or stuck in a short patch of sand or a single deep rut on 
an otherwise fine 2WD road.

Cheers, Jim


 


 

-Original Message-
From: Malcolm McCallum <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Sent: Thu, 9 Aug 2007 4:33 pm
Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Field-worthy SUV










Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about which
SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really don't
need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???

Just stoking the fire here!


On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
> range.
> Mike Marsh
>> Subject:
>> Re: field-worthy SUV
>> From:
>> William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> Date:
>> Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
>>
>>
>> I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
>> by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
>>
>> Bill Silvert
>>
>> - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> To: 
>> Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
>> Subject: field-worthy SUV
>>
>>
>>> Hi folks,
>>>
>>> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
>>> mid-sized
>>> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
>>> and
>>> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
>>> off-roading. A
>>> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
>>> of the
>>> smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
>>> strong
>>> plus.
>>>
>>> Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
>>> experience in
>>> the field?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Robert
>


Malcolm L. McCallum
Assistant Professor of Biology
Editor Herpetological Conservationa and Biology
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
[EMAIL PROTECTED]



 



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Re: field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread James Riser
Robert (and listserv members),

Here is my two cents worth after years of working (and playing) in the western 
US.

My recommendation is that if you need to move mainly people with little gear 
over good dirt roads with little actual 4WD use, get a hybrid SUV and try to 
stick to a Japanese brand.? (Jeeps?may also be a good choice.)??While these 
SUVs have better gas mileage, they will never have the all-around usefulness of 
a 4WD pickup.

If you need a stouter vehicle that can handle any manner of field gear (think 
gassy chainsaws or predator bait) and is?capable off road, then you need a 4WD 
pickup truck.? I know many will disagree, but gas mileage is not at the top of 
the priority list, field worthiness is.? (Choose a fuel efficient daily driver 
if you are worried about gas mileage-it is where you can make the most 
impact.)? In my mind the optimal field vehicle would be a 2003-2004 Toyota 
Tacoma 4 door with 4WD.? The bed is short, but with a topper can hold quite a 
bit and you can always attach a roof rack.? Nissan makes a similar 4 door 
pickup.? Sadly, the 4 door Tacoma was only offered as an automatic 
transmission, but this really isn't an off road?problem unless you need to roll 
start the vehicle.? Stay away from older Toyota LandCruisers etc unless you are 
prepared for them to need lots of maintenance and?fail emission controls (if 
you have them in your community).? A 4 cylinder engine is more fuel effi!
 cient that a 6, but with a serious loss of power.? You need to ask yourself if 
you will ever need to tow a trailer or if a 4 cylinder can handle mountain 
grades with a loaded bed and 4 adults inside.

Another option if you think you would be willing to sacrifice 4WD for gas 
mileage (I never would), and can find a 2WD 4 door pickup, is you could have a 
differential lock installed in the rear differential.? This would add 
negligible weight and would make the truck nearly as capable as a 4WD. 

Sincerely,
James


James P. Riser II
Plant Biologist
330 SE Gladstone
Pullman, WA 99163



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Re: Four wheel drive vehicles are a REQUIREMENT for most field projects!

2007-08-10 Thread Malcolm McCallum
You are making an assumption too that all funders will pay for a vehicle. 
IF a vehicle is an eligible expense then any proposer is going to put one
in if needed.  Fact is, vehicles typically are not eligible expenses and
even if they are the budget ceiling is often too small to allow budgeting
such vehicles.  AN average state grant may be 30-60K and limited to 1 yr. 
OFten state grants are much smaller.  Cost shares through federal agencies
may not exceed 5-10K.  Many grantors will pay to rent a vehicle but not
purchase.  Thats a hoot.  So you rent a 4 wheel drive and use it out in
the field, get it all scratched up and dinged, now bring it back.  Reminds
me of the scene in "Jackass: the movie."

This idea that you can just budget anything into a grant and get it if
justified is complete naivity.  I suspect you were talking in absolutes,
but clearly not meaning it as such!  Every RFP has its rules.  Every
project has its needs.  When 4 wheel is needed, you must have it.  But you
don't always need it and it is definitely a gas-hog vehicle running up
your expenses should you use it when not needed.


On Fri, August 10, 2007 12:10 pm, Michael E. Welker wrote:
> All,
>
> Most of the herp projects I have worked on have required four wheel drive
> vehicles.  Some of the PI's I have worked for were so inexperienced in
> field
> work that they "didn't realize" that a four wheel drive was a necessity.
> Many of the others tried to get by with "very used" four wheel drives
> because they didn't put enough money in their grant to get a decent field
> vehicle.  And on some projects they wanted us to drive our personal four
> wheel drive vehicle.  I would suggest the following:
>
> 1.  Put enough money in your grant to get what you need and consider those
> that will be in the field.  Don't skimp on the resources it takes to get
> the
> job done!
> 2.  Any off road project requires four wheel drive.  Even dirt roads
> (especially NF roads) become very muddy during rains and many also have
> sugar sand.
> 3.  If you are not inexperienced enough with field projects to plan
> properly
> get some advice.
> 4.  Get out of your lab and go to the field sites.  Things look great on
> paper but that doesn't mean they work in the real world.
> 5.  It is not your research techs job to provide a field vehicle it is
> yours!
>
> Take Care,
>
> Michael E. Welker
> Herpetologist / Wildlife Scientist
> 3105 Eads Place
> El Paso, Texas 79935
> (915) 595-8831 home
> (352) 256-4000 cell
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
>
> - Original Message -
> From: "Malcolm McCallum" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: 
> Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2007 5:33 PM
> Subject: Re: Field-worthy SUV
>
>
>> Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about
>> which
>> SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
>> suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really
>> don't
>> need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???
>>
>> Just stoking the fire here!
>>
>>
>> On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
>>> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty
>>> nowadays)
>>> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
>>> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
>>> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers
>>> in
>>> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
>>> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
>>> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
>>> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for
>>> 4
>>> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
>>> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
>>> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
>>> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
>>> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
>>> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
>>> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns
>>> (well
>>> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
>>> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
>>> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
>>> range.
>>> Mike Marsh
 Subject:
 Re: field-worthy SUV
 From:
 William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
 Date:
 Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100


 I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
 by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the
 like.

 Bill Silvert

 - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
 To: 
 Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
 Subject: field-worthy SUV


> Hi folks,
>
> This is a 

Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread Warren W. Aney
Back when all the state would provide for us biologists was 2WD pickups, my
first field supervisor said tire chains were to get you out of trouble, not
to get you farther into trouble.  When he got one of the first 4WD Dodge
Power Wagons (the 1960 counterpart to today's SUVs), he then said 4WD was
nice but it just got you into trouble even farther away from help.

Warren W. Aney

-Original Message-
From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malcolm McCallum
Sent: Thursday, 09 August, 2007 16:34
To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU
Subject: Re: Field-worthy SUV

Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about which
SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really don't
need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???

Just stoking the fire here!


On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
> range.
> Mike Marsh
>> Subject:
>> Re: field-worthy SUV
>> From:
>> William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> Date:
>> Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
>>
>>
>> I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
>> by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
>>
>> Bill Silvert
>>
>> - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> To: 
>> Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
>> Subject: field-worthy SUV
>>
>>
>>> Hi folks,
>>>
>>> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
>>> mid-sized
>>> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
>>> and
>>> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
>>> off-roading. A
>>> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
>>> of the
>>> smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
>>> strong
>>> plus.
>>>
>>> Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
>>> experience in
>>> the field?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Robert
>


Malcolm L. McCallum
Assistant Professor of Biology
Editor Herpetological Conservationa and Biology
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


ECOSYSTEM EFFECT TRADEOFFS Transportation modes Re: Ecology of Passenger Train Investment Dollars, was: Re: Skipping meetings

2007-08-10 Thread Wayne Tyson
Honourable Forum:

Hooray! What ecologists (not to mention other scientists) need is 
more cross-fertilization of disciplines, especially railroaders (npi) 
and other industry and commerce people and their special knowledge. I 
have met some real sensitive-to-ecosystems bulldozer operators.

I would like to hear more about ecosystem-effect tradeoffs in even 
more detail, and some analysis of the data in that respect. I wonder 
about predicting push-pull relationships with respect to service and 
equipment balances with demand and vice-versa. How do distances 
affect the picture? Routes? Commercial synergies, such as break-bulk 
point effects like food and lodging, entertainment, etc.?

I would not object to paying better salaries, even to "management," 
if we could get excellent management in the bargain. My direct 
experience with "modern" management is a bit "old," but I don't know 
how out-of-date it is. From what my cubicle-rat friends tell me, 
so-called "management" is even worse now than it was a 
quarter-century ago. If only we could run trains (or anything else) 
on Management BS, generated in such unlimited quantities by bloated 
MBA's and their ilk, our energy woes might be over. (Pardon my rant.)

PS: [WARNING: Do not read--contains the "R" word.]

I saw or felt no "rant" here, but I did pick up on how sensitized 
people who post to listservs are to the potential for "flaming." 
Anyone who speaks inconvenient truths runs a risk of stirring up a 
hornet's nest of wails from the wounded, folks caught with their 
intellectual hands in the cookie jar. That's why I think it's so 
important to stick to ISSUES, and avoid personalities entirely 
(except for reference to authors and perhaps some other limited 
common-sense exceptions). David no doubt does a good job of screening 
personal posts, as this list is outstanding for its maturity. It is 
crucial that listserv moderators, like David, recognize this crucial 
distinction and let posts on issues go through that are bound to be 
controversial--after all, that's where the cutting edge of any 
intellectual endeavor lies. Moderators can, and probably should in 
most cases, filter out personal attack-posts from folks who take 
statements about issues personally. However, while I agree that 
David's approach is probably better than mine might be, I might just 
let some ranting repostes (pun incidental) go through--especially if 
they advance the debate and reveal the temperament of the ranter. 
But, David is probably still right, because rants that make it 
through the moderator usually kill the discussion--at least among the 
reasonable. The issue "baby" gets thrown out with rant bathwater. 
Most objectors to my posts (it happens, even though I try to walk the 
line without compromising the point) have the good taste to direct 
their personal rants off-list. I used to object to such off-list 
posts, because I felt that I should be chastised in public for my 
errors in the interest of transparency and moving the debate, but 
now, on balance, I no longer hold that view. Perhaps, when a 
particular ranter urgently wants hisher email posted, a warning on 
the subject line might be required--just kidding; I'm an anarchist.

"Disagree without being disagreeable." --Unknown

"'Tis friction's brisk rub that provides the vital spark." --Anon. 
(Perhaps the author was intimidated by objectors to rants?)

At 09:35 PM 8/6/2007, Tom Schweich wrote:
>To avoid apparent conflict of interest, I disclose that I worked for a
>railroad for a 27 years. However, the question of passenger service
>quality has to do with money, or lack thereof.   We, in the US, choose
>not to invest in the rail infrastructure necessary to provide a pleasant
>passenger train experience. We insist that passenger service mix with
>freight service, with a few exceptions. Then we try to squeeze out every
>last maintenance dollar.  We also have some geographical issues,
>especially in the West, with long distances between major cities, that
>increase costs.  Perhaps the statement is apocryphal, but we used to say
>that Amtrak could save money by giving every rail passenger a free
>Greyhound bus ticket, instead of running trains. Yes, I've ridden trains
>in Europe, including commuter trains in the Netherlands, and the Madrid
>Metro, Talgo, Altaria, and AVE trains in Spain.  They're wonderful,
>especially the AVE.  However, the Spanish have made a tremendous
>investment in infrastructure for the AVE (it has its own tracks) and the
>fare is still high. The cheapest fare on the AVE is about $200 from
>Madrid to Sevilla, roundtrip. You can fly for $226, roundtrip.If we
>really wanted good passenger service, we would invest in the
>infrastructure, pay good management salaries, pay for the maintenance,
>and be willing to pay higher fares.
>
>Sorry, I got no rant control ...
>
>Tom
>--
>Tom Schweich http://www.schweich.com
>mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
>Malcolm McCallum wrote:
> > Riding the train is a g

"Jobs and Fellowships in Ecology" - 7 new Jobs

2007-08-10 Thread BioJobs Info
  "Jobs and Fellowships in Ecology" - 7 new articles


1.. M.Sc. Graduate assistantship- available for winter 2008=20
2.. Environmental Coordinator=20
3.. Resource Technician=20
4.. Junior Group leader in Ecology and/or Evolution=20
5.. Lecturer/Senior Lecturer (Biology)=20
6.. Research Fellow/ research scientist / laboratory manager=20
7.. Tenure-track position in Ecosystem Ecology for top level =
scientists=20
8.. More Recent Articles=20
9.. Search Jobs and Fellowships in Ecology
  M.Sc. Graduate assistantship- available for winter 2008
  Influence of intensive forest management on songbirds in the =
post-fledging  period One M.Sc research assistantship is available in =
the Department of Forest  Science at Oregon State University starting in =
September 2007. The  objectives of the study are to: (1) Assess the =
influence of intensive  forest management on avian habitat quality early =
succesional forests of  northern Oregon, (2)



Environmental Coordinator
JOB TITLE: Environmental Coordinator BROAD SUBJECT AREA: Ecology =
JOB DESCRIPTION: This incumbent will assist the Summit Lake Paiute Tribe =
to develop and implement an Environmental Program sponsored by EPA =
funded grants. Frequent travel to the Summit Lake Indian Reservation and =
EPA workshops may be required; however, specific work location may be =
negotiated. CONTACT DETAILS: A detailed job



  Resource Technician
  JOB TITLE: Resource Technician BROAD SUBJECT AREA: Ecology JOB =
DESCRIPTION: Incumbent will work within a variety of environmental =
grants and contracts, sponsored by EPA and BIA, with emphasis on the =
water quality program. The Resource Technician will direct and =
administer all aspects of the Summit Lake Paiute Tribe's GIS system, =
including development and maintenance of a central database



Junior Group leader in Ecology and/or Evolution
Junior Group leader in Ecology and/or Evolution at the =
Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Switzerland =
The Department of Ecology and Evolution at Lausanne University, =
Switzerland, (http://www.unil.ch/dee ) invites applications for a junior =
group leader position (Maitre assistant) in the field of Ecology and/or =
Evolution. We are seeking a highly motivated young



  Lecturer/Senior Lecturer (Biology)
  Lecturer/Senior Lecturer Biology University of =
Gloucestershire, UK The main focus of this post will involve teaching =
within the undergraduate Biology Field. You will be expected to =
contribute to a variety of areas of biology and ecology but expertise in =
one or more of the following areas would be an advantage: parasitology, =
population ecology, invertebrate biology. You will also



Research Fellow/ research scientist / laboratory manager
University of St Andrews Gatty Marine Laboratory School =
of Biology Salary: =A327,857 - 31,353 per annum The Sediment Ecology =
Research Group is seeking a research scientist and laboratory manager. =
The position will be to support Professor David M. Paterson in the =
management of the SERG group and taking a leading part in related =
research. Candidates with relevant experience in any of the main SERG


  Tenure-track position in Ecosystem Ecology for top =
level scientists
  The Universit=EF=BF=BD du Qu=EF=BF=BDbec =EF=BF=BD =
Rimouski (UQAR) invites applications for a tenure-track position in  =
Ecosystem Ecology. We seek top level scientists to hold a Level II, =
Canada Research Chair in Continental Ecosystem Structure and Function. =
We are interested in candidates with outstanding research experience in =
some of the following fields : ecosystem modelling, landscape ecology, =
biodiversity,



More Recent Articles
  a.. Research Assistant in Evolutionary Ecology=20
  b.. Post Doctoral position in research areas =
related with spatial and ecological planning=20
  c.. GIS Analyst=20
  d.. Chair of Biological Sciences=20
  e.. Research Assistant / Technician (Macro-ecology =
and evolution)
=20


ECOLOGY How to Help the Ecosystem Succeed? Re: Skipping meetings vs. teleconferencing

2007-08-10 Thread Wayne Tyson
Dear Jacquelyn and Forum:

(While Jacquelyn's email did stimulate these comments, they are not 
intended as a critique of her--they are about the phenomena, not the person.)

The questioning of elders is a time-honored and essential, 
indispensable ingredient in the advancement of knowledge, the careful 
consideration of the thoughts of those who have spent almost a 
lifetime doing just that is likewise an important part of the mix of 
intellectual exploration of which "science" and any "discipline" are 
parts.  It is sad in a sense, but also a bit ironic, that those at 
the beginning of their careers in ecology, should feel cheated when 
the continuing in the footsteps of their elders, mistakes and all, 
seems threatened.  Ecologists, among, thankfully, a fairly large 
minority of the world's population, are beginning to see their 
predictions validated--and they don't like it.  It appears to be a 
distinct possibility that major changes in human behavior will be 
forced upon, not only the innocent future generations, but upon the 
present generation just beginning to hold the earth's destiny in its hands.

It seems unfair that, just as greater and greater efficiencies in 
energy use are within their grasp, that the consequences of past 
generations' profligacy are increasingly borne by the emerging 
generations.  It is a frightening prospect to see Malthusian hunches 
about the consequences of population increases seeming to pale into 
comparative insignificance before harder and harder data about the 
spinoff effects like Anthropogenic Global Warming, Water Scarcity, 
and Peak Oil, for example,

http://www.peakoil.nl/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/oilwatch_monthly_may_2007.pdf

being poised to levy some unstoppable "Armageddon" upon the world 
just as its finest heroes are rising to the occasion.  E. O. Wilson 
is a prophet with honor, but his prophesies may not be having 
sufficient effect upon the masses--nay, upon his own colleagues.  It 
is as if Nero were sounding the alarm while the citizens of Rome were 
fiddling as it burned.

But perhaps Wilson is hypocritical, having jetted his way to 
countless meetings in the past, while he now counsels 
restraint.  Perhaps he regrets having "used up" too much energy so 
fast that now his followers must conserve?  Perhaps we are lucky that 
he did jet around as much as he did, and perhaps we will be luckier 
still because some emerging scientist will put him in the shade, and 
the tradeoff of the jetting around for hisher accomplishments will be 
so great that future generations will be grateful?  Could be.  It 
also could be that some are more concerned with career advancement 
than "The Mission" (though why they chose ecology rather than, say, 
economics, is puzzling).

There were times when scientists wrote letters on scraps of paper to 
each other, sent by sailing ship and horseback across continents and 
oceans.  If we are unlucky (or lucky?), those times, or something 
akin to them, will come again--by choice or, most likely, as the 
oscillations from planting that first seed 12,000 years ago come home 
to roost (aka "Chaos Theory," "Tipping Point" and 
"Blowback?").  There were times when lifetimes were spent before 
well-deserved honors were recognized by one's peers--and times when 
peers denied and ignored solid accomplishments of prophetic 
scientists.  Yea, there were times when derision by peers, disrespect 
by the powerful, and ignorance by one's citizenry were so extreme 
that burning at the stake was a real, not merely virtual, risk.  In 
those times, even great accomplishments did not provide a Ph.D., even 
after a lifetime of devotion.  Why does the song, "Abraham, Martin, 
and John" come to mind?  Where are our emerging Charley Darwins, Al 
Wallaces, Ros Franklins, Barb McClintocks, and Al Wegeners?  Oh, how 
I would like to have a beer with y'all . . . but if we can't, I'll 
settle for an email, even a code-cracking formula scratched on a stone.

WT


At 05:10 PM 8/6/2007, JACQUELYN GILL wrote:
>More importanly, anyone ever spend a week sitting in front of a 
>computer during an online meeting, without the added benefit of 
>getting to chat informally with presenters and attendees from all 
>over the world (or meet for beers afterwards)? If we don't have time 
>to read all the journal articles in every issue of Ecology, what 
>more effective way is there to serendipitously discover the research 
>of our colleagues? I understand the need to make alternatives 
>available, but the work that is inspired and generated by spending a 
>week with fellow researchers more than makes up for any 
>environmental impact (especially with features like carbon offsets) 
>in my opinion. As a young graduate student, I'm pretty techno-savvy, 
>but I would never want ESA to replace flesh-and-blood meetings with 
>impersonal and inconvenient electronic alternatives. It's one thing 
>for eminent scientists like Dr. Wilson to call for a reduction in 
>world travel a

JSS website

2007-08-10 Thread William Silvert
Several list members apparently had problems accessing the JSS website, and 
thanks to some constructive advice I received the site should now be 
readable in most browsers. I have tested it with IE, Firefox and Safari. If 
anyone still has problems, please let me know.

Obviously web programming is not a simple system!

Bill Silvert

- Original Message - 
From: "William Silvert" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2007 4:32 PM
Subject: New Journal - Simple Systems


>I am pleased to announce that I have finally addressed the issue of the
> overwhelming complexity of ecosystems in general, fisheries in particular,
> and everything else, by publishing the first issue of the Journal of 
> Simple
> Systems (JSS) on the website http://simple.silvert.org. 


Jobs: Student contractors at U.S.E.P.A. Gulf Ecology Division

2007-08-10 Thread Susan Yee
The Gulf Ecology Division (Gulf Breeze, FL), National Health and 
Environmental Effects Research Laboratory (NHEERL), Office of Research and 
Development (ORD), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking 
students or recent graduates with a B.S. or equivalent degree  in biology, 
chemistry, ecology, environmental science, marine biology, zoology or 
related field to provide services under contractual agreement.   The 
majority of work will be devoted to one of the following projects: 1 - 
providing technical support for oceanographic research examine the factors 
controlling the onset and maintenance of bottom-water low oxygen 
conditions on the Louisiana Continental Shelf;  2 - providing technical 
support for research projects characterize the effects of environmental 
stressors on reef-building corals and their dinoflagellate symbionts; 3 - 
providing technical support for research involving estimation of 
population-level responses of estuarine fishes in experiments that 
incorporate stochasticity and density-dependence variables throughout the 
fish’s life cycle;  or  4 - providing technical support for research 
involving development of a geographic inventory of landscapes and their 
functional aspects utilizing data from scientific literature review and 
synthesis, acquisition of geospatial and biological data from distributed 
databases, data management, and data analysis. Please see  
http://www.epa.gov/oamrtpnc/q0700225/index.htm for details regarding the 
position.

Thank you. 

Lori Barmore
Mgmt. & Prog. Analyst
US EPA, ORD, NHEERL
Gulf Ecology Division
1 Sabine Island Drive
Gulf Breeze, FL  32561
Phone #: (850) 934-9246
Fax #: (850) 934- 2404 


Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread Malcolm McCallum
Doesn't it strike anyone kind of strange that this discussion about which
SUV to choose popped up right amidst a discussion about wastefulness?  I
suggest that 90% of us using 4-wheel drive SUVs for research really don't
need them.  How often do you actually need to put it in 4-wheel???

Just stoking the fire here!


On Thu, August 9, 2007 3:33 pm, Mike Marsh wrote:
> Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
> a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
> these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
> the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
> the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
> front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
> than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
> transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
> wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
> cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
> We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
> from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
> troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
> expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
> (unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
> ,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
> loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
> fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
> range.
> Mike Marsh
>> Subject:
>> Re: field-worthy SUV
>> From:
>> William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> Date:
>> Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
>>
>>
>> I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
>> by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
>>
>> Bill Silvert
>>
>> - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> To: 
>> Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
>> Subject: field-worthy SUV
>>
>>
>>> Hi folks,
>>>
>>> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
>>> mid-sized
>>> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
>>> and
>>> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
>>> off-roading. A
>>> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
>>> of the
>>> smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
>>> strong
>>> plus.
>>>
>>> Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
>>> experience in
>>> the field?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Robert
>


Malcolm L. McCallum
Assistant Professor of Biology
Editor Herpetological Conservationa and Biology
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


Re: euclidean distances and SAS

2007-08-10 Thread Charnsmorn Hwang
Although I can't speak for him, I would suggest Peter Smouse <
[EMAIL PROTECTED]>.  I had him for an Ecology and Evolution course
regarding heterogeneity and Eucludean measurements.  Hope this helps.

--C. Hwang


-- 

Charnsmorn Hwang
Graduate Student
Dept. of Entomology
Rutgers University of New Jersey
New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901

email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
alt. email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
phone: (862) 324-1595

On 8/8/07, Lene Jung Kjaer <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> Hello All,
>
> I'm currently trying to analyze deer habitat use,
> using the euclidean distance method by Conner et al
> 2001, 2003. I'm having trouble performing a
> randomization test on the distance ratios in SAS.
> This needs to be a randomization test of a MANOVA,
> which can't be done in poptools in Excel. Has anyone
> had any experience with this, or does anyone have any
> ideas to help me out?
>
> Thanks,
> Lene Jung Kjaer
> _
>
> Lene Jung Kjaer, PhD. Candidate
> Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory
> Department of Zoology
> Life Science II Room 269B
> Southern Illinois University
> Carbondale,
> Il 62901-6504
> Phone Office: 618-453-5495
> Fax Office: 618 453-6944
> Phone Home: 618-303-6136
> email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> _
>
> "While the rest of the species is descended from
> apes, redheads are descended from cats." MARK TWAIN


Re: Field-worthy SUV

2007-08-10 Thread Wayne Tyson
Mike:

I always wanted one of these, but the very best I ever had was a 1968 
Ford Bronco.  I gave it to a friend in CO USA because I didn't want 
to comply with CA smog alterations.

I now have a Ford 3/4 ton diesel with a pop-up camper.  Terribly 
expensive, but so far I have been happy with the compromise.  If I 
had it to do over again, I'd get the short-bed diesel and a shorter 
camper, but I no longer sleep on granite boulders and my wife insists 
on the bathroom.  I like it too, not to mention the other creature-comforts.

Got a recipe for switchgrass diesel?  Dubya hasn't answered my 
emails.  And where do you find the stuff?  I suppose that when the 
Bushes are all replaced by switchgrass it will be easier, but then 
when the Peak Oil phenomenon hits the fan, where will we get our 
special greases and micropressors when the go kaput?

I think I'll start raising mules . . .

Thanks to everyone for their interesting inputs on this subject . . .

WT

PS: I take it you are a wetlands ecologist.  I'm collecting names of 
folks that line up with their professions.  The king of 'em all 
remains Grady Clay, editor of Landscape Architecture some years ago.

At 01:33 PM 8/9/2007, Mike Marsh wrote:
>Robert, if you don't mind something old, find (with difficulty nowadays)
>a pre1985 Toyota land cruiser, also known in Australia as a "troopie".
>these are instantly recognizeable by the completely box-like cabin, and
>the long-wheelbase model was designed to carry a  squad of 8 soldiers in
>the rear sitting sidewise on two parallel benches, with a bench seat in
>front. The chassis and suspension is mor reminiscent of a locomotive
>than a truck completely solid. There is a manual, low-hi range
>transmission. You have to get out to lock or unlock the front hubs for 4
>wheel drive. A diesel model will chug down the road at 55 mph forever,
>cross rivers, tow less bush-worthy vehicles, etc.
>We went to Australia in 2001 to cross the continent with local friends
>from Sydney to the Kimberleys. We bought a used long wheelbase 1984
>troopie, had oil leaks in the front hubs fixed, and set out on a 3 week
>expedition. We covered 10,000 kilometers, perhaps 1/3 of it on unsealed
>(unpaved) roads of various degrees of roughness, had no breakdowns (well
>,the clutch was slipping the last 600 km), one flat tire, and came away
>loving our vehicle, which we sold to a friend. You must not need to go
>fast, as the fuel economy drops. With 2 fuel tanks you have 400+ mile
>range.
>Mike Marsh
> > Subject:
> > Re: field-worthy SUV
> > From:
> > William Silvert <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> > Date:
> > Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:16:59 +0100
> >
> >
> > I'm no expert on this, but colleagues who have worked in Africa swear
> > by the Toyota pickups. They run circles around Land Rovers and the like.
> >
> > Bill Silvert
> >
> > - Original Message - From: "Robert Long" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> > To: 
> > Sent: Tuesday, August 07, 2007 1:23 PM
> > Subject: field-worthy SUV
> >
> >
> >> Hi folks,
> >>
> >> This is a fairly general question, but I'm looking for a small- or
> >> mid-sized
> >> SUV to serve as a field vehicle. It will be used extensively both on-
> >> and
> >> off-highway, although need not be capable of truly ruggged
> >> off-roading. A
> >> good amount of rear cargo space would be best (which eliminates some
> >> of the
> >> smaller SUVs like the Honda CRV), and decent gas mileage will be a
> >> strong
> >> plus.
> >>
> >> Can anyone recommend a few makes and models based on personal
> >> experience in
> >> the field?
> >>
> >> Thanks,
> >>
> >> Robert