[ECOLOG-L] Fwd: NOAA fisheries management: Pacific
This is about federal agency transparency. http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/2014/05/14/22012-fisheries-panel-destroys-tape-of-secret-meeting/ Fisheries Panel Destroys Tape of Secret Meeting By Patricia Tummons and Teresa Dawson 05/14/2014 Isaac Wedin http://www.flickr.com/photos/izik/ via Flickr Longline fishing hooks The meeting held in the conference room of the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council’s Honolulu office on the afternoon of Jan. 29 must have been a doozy. As a result of what he claimed was uncivil behavior of a participant, Robin Baird, a cetacean scientist with the Cascadia Research Collective and one of the most published experts on the subject of false killer whales in Hawaii, resigned his seat on the council’s Protected Species Advisory Committee. When approached by Environment Hawaii, several other participants in the meeting of the council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee’s (SSC) subcommittee on false killer whales would not discuss what transpired there. They did, however, note that council staff had made an audio recording of the proceedings. On Feb. 24, just a few days after learning of the existence of the recording, we filed a formal Freedom of Information Act request to obtain a copy of it. The response came on April 4. “The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council staff has advised that an audio recording of the subcommittee meeting was erased on February 22, 2014,” stated the letter signed by Samuel D. Rauch III, administrator of the National Marine Fisheries Service. “We are in the process of reviewing the circumstances of this action.” No Public Notice The apparent destruction of a government record is not the only irregularity about the SSC subcommittee meeting. Under the governing law, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, notice of meetings of the council, SSC, and all other council committees and advisory groups are presumed to be public and must be announced in the Federal Register. A review of Federal Register notices in the weeks before the meeting turned up no such notice. This oversight was confirmed in an email from Michael Tosatto, administrator of NMFS’ Pacific Islands Regional Office in Honolulu. “As the result of an unintended omission,” Tosatto said, “there was no Federal Register notice for that sub-committee meeting. We will provide the council staff with clarifying direction regarding public notice requirements” in the Magnuson-Stevens Act. ‘Aggressive, Inappropriate’ As we reported in March, Baird found his treatment at the hands of Milani Chaloupka, an environmental consultant from Queensland, Australia, so insulting that he resigned his position with the council’s Protected Species Advisory Committee (PSAC) two days later. In his resignation letter, he described the behavior of Chaloupka, who sits on both the SSC and the Protected Species Advisory Committee, as “unprofessional and highly inappropriate.” “In normal work environments it is clear to me that his tone and adversarial questioning would be considered abusive behavior and would not be tolerated, and I am certainly not willing to tolerate it.” Baird expanded on his experience of the meeting in a phone interview with Environment Hawaii. After he had made his presentation on his recent work in estimating false killer whale abundance through photo identification of individual animals, Baird said, committee members “started asking questions. At the outset, they were all very legitimate questions about our techniques, analytical techniques, et cetera. “After awhile, it deteriorated into what I could best describe as a very adversarial situation. It went from me being asked clarifying questions, or them questioning aspects of the science, to like being on the stand in a court case. Instead of me being asked a civil question, it turned into criticism of me for not providing more information to them, or not providing information in advance. It was bizarre.” Baird went on to say that he had been asked by council staff to present information on his analyses – “just that.” But at the meeting itself, he said, “at the beginning, an agenda was passed around. It was the first time I had seen this…. If you’re going to have a draft agenda, if you want things to be discussed, it’s a good idea to give people a head’s up. And this wasn’t done. “The meeting then deteriorated into what I would characterize as extremely unprofessional, inappropriate behavior. Milani repeatedly criticized me, not my science.” “The line of questioning became so unpleasant that I packed up my stuff and walked out of the room. Life is too short for me to put myself in those kinds of situations. Any normal person who was there as a witness would consider it abusive behavior as well.” Chaloupka did not respond to Environment Hawaii’s questions about the incident by press time. At Wespac’s March meeting in Guam, no mention was made of Baird’s departure during discussion of changes to
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses
Hello everyone, I have to agree with Amod - it comes down to funds and jobs. I went into a Masters wanting to dedicate my career to basic field ecology (and that is what my MS thesis was in), but after two years of non-funded research project and very low stipend I redirected my research to molecular entomology. This allows me to have a small focus of ecology and fieldwork, but there are many more grant and job opportunities. Although I would love to go back to basic field biology, it isn't financially wise until the funding situation greatly improves. Many thanks, Cory On May 14, 2014, at 8:01 PM, amod saini ammod.sa...@gmail.com wrote: Hello Mates, just to add from India also some direction, here is the same dilemma..now ecology students are demotivated by biotechnological advances and ecological students have to divert their career because biotech and biochemistry student replacing them very fastmyself was ecology student and i had to divert my career to support my family(otherwise i had to face problem even for my bread)there was a very less money for ecology projects than others one...so they are discouraged at many account.. amod, north India Forest ecologist On 15 May 2014 02:11, Judith S. Weis jw...@andromeda.rutgers.edu wrote: Also field trips/courses may be more expensive to run with transportation of groups of students to field sites etc etc. I don't think we should worry about the status thing. We all know that what we do is the most fun, and students often rate the field trips as the best part of the class. It's not just a US issue - we have seen similar pressures to reduce the field component in degrees in the UK and across Europe. It's worth reading the piece by Robert Arlinghaus (pages 212-215) in the May issue of Fisheries http://fisheries.org/docs/wp/UFSH395_final_web.pdf (PDF), where he makes the point that the academic status of those doing dirty/field stuff is less than that of their peers doing 'clean' lab work. Arlinghaus, R. (2014) Are current research evaluation metrics causing a tragedy of the scientific commons and the extinction of university-based fisheries programs? Fisheries, 39, 212-215. Chris Dr Chris Harrod* Senior Lecturer in Fish Aquatic Ecology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences Queen Mary University of London 1.31 Fogg Building Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK Email: c.har...@qmul.ac.uk Twitter: @chris_harrod UK Mobile: +44 (0) 797 741 9314 UK Office: +44 (0) 207 882 6367 http://webspace.qmul.ac.uk/charrod/ http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/research/researchgroups/aquaticecology *Chile address Instituto de Ciencias Naturales Alexander Von Humboldt, Universidad de Antofagasta, Avenida Angamos 601, Antofagasta, Chile *Chile Mobile: +56 9 7399 7792 *Chile Office: +56 55 637400 -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Fisher, Shannon J Sent: 14 May 2014 12:36 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses At the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference in Kansas City this past January, I noted the absence of many University graduate students that once represented the cutting edge of natural resource research. The programs that have nearly all but vanished are from large research institutions that followed the path Mike described below. In fact, one major university in my area has fisheries students - yes, fisheries students, that graduate with both B.S. and M.S degrees that have never once set a net, measured a fish, or run a boat. It is very shocking to potential employers when these trained fresh employees are put in the field and are basically helpless. The good students are securing those experiences through summer internships, etc... but many are not. The programs that were prominent at the Midwest, those that are not only surviving by thriving, are mostly small to mid-sized academic units that continue to have a strong foundation in field labs, field research, and applied sciences. I was told that during a past North-Central Division Presidents Luncheon for the American Fisheries Society, that our incoming President even made note of the changes she has seen in the prominent programs. Those large programs are no longer leading the way in field biology/ecology, and she called out specific smaller programs that were truly represented at the conference. Even here, however, where we can show success of our field/applied sciences graduates, there is constant pressure to move faculty lines to other programs. I, along with a few other faculty, are doing everything we can to not only maintain, but grow our field and applied sciences program. It is a tough battle, though, because we are one of those biology departments and field faculty
[ECOLOG-L] Multiple non-invasive measurements of plant development
Hi, We are presently running an experiment that examines the interactions between annuals and Sedum plants. In the experiment, we have crossed the dispersion (uniform or clumped) of the sedum with presence and absence of annuals. We are trying to quantify the developmental success of the Sedum among the different treatments. Because they are small plots and we want repetitive measurements, we need to find a non-invasive way of measuring biomass or some proxy. That is, we cannot simply remove samples for measurement. We do not think that we can quantify this by photographing because the annuals cover much of the Sedum in the Sedum + annual plots. The experiment is still running so cannot weigh some/all the biomass... Any suggestions of how to quantify the plant (Sedum) developmental success to make treatment comparisons. Help would be appreciated! Amiel
[ECOLOG-L] interesting flowering following a California fire last year
http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/After-inferno-Mt-Diablo-bursts-with-long-hidden-5475899.php After inferno, Mt. Diablo bursts with long-hidden flowers
[ECOLOG-L] POST-DOCTORAL POSITION IN FOREST ENTOMOLOGY AND LANDSCAPE GENETICS - Montreal, QC.
The James Jab at the Université de Montréal and the Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada, are currently seeking a motivated and highly qualified post-doctoral researcher to examine dispersal in the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) using landscape genetics. The spruce budworm is a native forest insect pest that is currently outbreaking in Québec and is imminently poised to spread into New Brunswick. This research project is part of a large inter-disciplinary and multi-institutional research programme dedicated to better understanding the fundamental ecology of the spruce budworm system. The specific project will improve our understanding of budworm dispersal to further develop models of spatial population dynamics and the assessment of outbreak risk in forest areas not yet affected. The candidate is expected to have experience and skills in molecular ecology and population genetics. Further skills in landscape ecology, forest entomology, GIS, multivariate statistics, programming, and management of large data sets are desired. Some experience in forestry and forest management issues in Canada is desired but not mandatory. The ability to communicate effectively in English is required. Note that the Université de Montréal is a French language institution. To apply please send a current CV, contact information for three references, a writing sample (e.g., a published paper), and a precise cover letter outlining your research experience and interests to Dr. Patrick James (patrick.ma.ja...@gmail.com) before June 20th, 2014. All applicants are expected to have a PhD at the time the contract will begin in September 2014. We thank everyone for their applications but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Multiple non-invasive measurements of plant development
Hi Amiel, I would recommend the comparative yield (CY) method for non-destructive biomass sampling. The following citation provides an overview of the methodology. Several of my colleagues have used the technique for effective long-term sampling in rangeland systems. Friedel, M. H., Chewings, V. H. Bastin, G.N. (1988) The use of comparative yield and dry-weight-rank techniques for monitoring arid rangeland. *Journal of Range Management*, 41, 430–435. I would be happy to provide more resources if need be. Many thanks, *Jessica P. Parker* On Wed, May 14, 2014 at 12:27 AM, Amiel Vasl amielv...@gmail.com wrote: Hi, We are presently running an experiment that examines the interactions between annuals and Sedum plants. In the experiment, we have crossed the dispersion (uniform or clumped) of the sedum with presence and absence of annuals. We are trying to quantify the developmental success of the Sedum among the different treatments. Because they are small plots and we want repetitive measurements, we need to find a non-invasive way of measuring biomass or some proxy. That is, we cannot simply remove samples for measurement. We do not think that we can quantify this by photographing because the annuals cover much of the Sedum in the Sedum + annual plots. The experiment is still running so cannot weigh some/all the biomass... Any suggestions of how to quantify the plant (Sedum) developmental success to make treatment comparisons. Help would be appreciated! Amiel
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses
there are not that many jobs DOING field ecology. Most people with degrees in field ecology are doing permit work of some kind. This is why you must take some policy courses while an undergrad. Also, jobs in the govt are fisheries, wildlife, or forestry. They are not field ecology. Now, if the state govts wanted to come to the 21st century, a lot of this would change. But thus far, most state agencies remain game agencies and all else is secondary. (NOTICE I SAID MOST) On Wed, May 14, 2014 at 10:50 PM, Cory corywsu2...@gmail.com wrote: Hello everyone, I have to agree with Amod - it comes down to funds and jobs. I went into a Masters wanting to dedicate my career to basic field ecology (and that is what my MS thesis was in), but after two years of non-funded research project and very low stipend I redirected my research to molecular entomology. This allows me to have a small focus of ecology and fieldwork, but there are many more grant and job opportunities. Although I would love to go back to basic field biology, it isn't financially wise until the funding situation greatly improves. Many thanks, Cory On May 14, 2014, at 8:01 PM, amod saini ammod.sa...@gmail.com wrote: Hello Mates, just to add from India also some direction, here is the same dilemma..now ecology students are demotivated by biotechnological advances and ecological students have to divert their career because biotech and biochemistry student replacing them very fastmyself was ecology student and i had to divert my career to support my family(otherwise i had to face problem even for my bread)there was a very less money for ecology projects than others one...so they are discouraged at many account.. amod, north India Forest ecologist On 15 May 2014 02:11, Judith S. Weis jw...@andromeda.rutgers.edu wrote: Also field trips/courses may be more expensive to run with transportation of groups of students to field sites etc etc. I don't think we should worry about the status thing. We all know that what we do is the most fun, and students often rate the field trips as the best part of the class. It's not just a US issue - we have seen similar pressures to reduce the field component in degrees in the UK and across Europe. It's worth reading the piece by Robert Arlinghaus (pages 212-215) in the May issue of Fisheries http://fisheries.org/docs/wp/UFSH395_final_web.pdf (PDF), where he makes the point that the academic status of those doing dirty/field stuff is less than that of their peers doing 'clean' lab work. Arlinghaus, R. (2014) Are current research evaluation metrics causing a tragedy of the scientific commons and the extinction of university-based fisheries programs? Fisheries, 39, 212-215. Chris Dr Chris Harrod* Senior Lecturer in Fish Aquatic Ecology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences Queen Mary University of London 1.31 Fogg Building Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK Email: c.har...@qmul.ac.uk Twitter: @chris_harrod UK Mobile: +44 (0) 797 741 9314 UK Office: +44 (0) 207 882 6367 http://webspace.qmul.ac.uk/charrod/ http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/research/researchgroups/aquaticecology *Chile address Instituto de Ciencias Naturales Alexander Von Humboldt, Universidad de Antofagasta, Avenida Angamos 601, Antofagasta, Chile *Chile Mobile: +56 9 7399 7792 *Chile Office: +56 55 637400 -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Fisher, Shannon J Sent: 14 May 2014 12:36 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses At the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference in Kansas City this past January, I noted the absence of many University graduate students that once represented the cutting edge of natural resource research. The programs that have nearly all but vanished are from large research institutions that followed the path Mike described below. In fact, one major university in my area has fisheries students - yes, fisheries students, that graduate with both B.S. and M.S degrees that have never once set a net, measured a fish, or run a boat. It is very shocking to potential employers when these trained fresh employees are put in the field and are basically helpless. The good students are securing those experiences through summer internships, etc... but many are not. The programs that were prominent at the Midwest, those that are not only surviving by thriving, are mostly small to mid-sized academic units that continue to have a strong foundation in field labs, field research, and applied sciences. I was told that during a past North-Central Division Presidents Luncheon for the American Fisheries Society, that our incoming President even made note of the changes she has seen in the prominent programs. Those large programs are no
[ECOLOG-L] Unique Training Opportunities in Adaptive Management, Ecological Statistics in R, and Research Techniques for Migratory Birds
Title: Unique Training Opportunities in Adaptive Management, Ecological Statistics in R, and Research Techniques for Migratory Birds Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is offering a full schedule of unique, intensive residential training courses hosted in our new, sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front Royal Virginia. Most courses can be taken either for graduate credit or continuing education units. Limited scholarships are available for international applicants and new reduced fees are now available to applicants from less-developed nations. Visit our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.eduhttp://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at mailto:scbitrain...@si.eduscbitrain...@si.edu for more details about each course, course costs, and credits earned. http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/mccs-0507-adaptive-management-for-conservation-success/Adaptive Management (must apply now to be considered) June 16-20, 2014 This course is taught in partnership with Foundations of Success (FOS). Working in teams on a real conservation project, participants practice conceptualizing projects, formulating objectives and providing evidence of conservation results. The course builds skills in designing and planning effective projects that provide clear evidence of conservation impact, and in use of Miradi adaptive management software. http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/mccs-0501-statistics-for-ecology-and-conservation-biology/Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology August 18-29, 2014 Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized linear models; generalized additive models; how to deal with the limitations of real datasets; and conservation-specific approaches. http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/species-monitoring-and-conservation-bird-migration/Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds (new!) September 1-12, 2014 Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical concepts, field and laboratory methods (including mist-netting, banding, tissue sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data analysis (including mark-recapture statistics) and applied conservation strategies. Additional Upcoming Courses: · http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/mccs-0500-spatial-ecology-geospatial-analysis-and-remote-sensing-for-conservation/Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing for Conservation (Sept. 15-26, 2014) * http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/watershed-conservation-riparian-restoration/Watershed Conservation: Riparian Restoration (September 29 - October 3, 2014) · http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/mccs-0509-applied-climate-change-gaining-practical-skills-for-climate-change-adaptation/Applied Climate Change: Gaining practical skills for climate change adaptation (Oct. 20-31, 2014) · http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/essentials-of-open-source-gis/Essentials of Open Source GIS (November 17-21, 2014)new course!
[ECOLOG-L] Journal of Am Physicians and Surgeons beware
This journal used to be part of the DOAJ, but they booted it because it was not a real journal and publishes a lot of stuff that borders on total lies. If you are ever looking for a subject for students to read and discuss, in an effort to demonstrate what is not real science. This is a good place to start! http://www.jpands.org/ Among my favorites in here was one that declared climate change false and that temperatures were getting cooler... Then, more recently... http://www.jpands.org/vol9no3/edwards.pdf about how DDT is a conspiracy. M -- Malcolm L. McCallum, PHD, REP Department of Environmental Studies University of Illinois at Springfield Managing Editor, Herpetological Conservation and Biology “Nothing is more priceless and worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed. It is a many-faceted treasure, of value to scholars, scientists, and nature lovers alike, and it forms a vital part of the heritage we all share as Americans.” -President Richard Nixon upon signing the Endangered Species Act of 1973 into law. Peer pressure is designed to contain anyone with a sense of drive - Allan Nation 1880's: There's lots of good fish in the sea W.S. Gilbert 1990's: Many fish stocks depleted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. 2000: Marine reserves, ecosystem restoration, and pollution reduction MAY help restore populations. 2022: Soylent Green is People! The Seven Blunders of the World (Mohandas Gandhi) Wealth w/o work Pleasure w/o conscience Knowledge w/o character Commerce w/o morality Science w/o humanity Worship w/o sacrifice Politics w/o principle Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.
[ECOLOG-L] Job: ecological consultant, UK
We just wanted to let you know about an Ecological Consultant position at URS that we thought may be of interest: http://email.jobstheword.com/c/aT0xMDk4NjIwMjkuMTY4ODg1LjE0MDAxNjg4OTQ0NDMlNDBzbXRwLm1haWxndW4ub3JnJmg9NmQ3ZjlhNjlmMThjMDNjOGUyMWE2OTE2MjdiOWQwZTAmcj1pbm91eWUlNDB1bWQuZWR1JmQ9Yjg5YiZsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cuam9ic3RoZXdvcmQuY29tJTJGSm9iJTJGSW5mbyUyRjEwMDE3JTJGRWNvbG9naWNhbF9Db25zdWx0YW50JTJGV2ltYmxlZG9uJTJGVVJThttp://www.jobstheword.com/Job/Info/10017/Ecological_Consultant/Wimbledon/URS URS URS is a leading international provider of engineering, construction and technical services. We offer a broad range of program management, planning, design, environmental, engineering, construction, maintenance, and decommissioning services to public agencies and private sector clients around the world. The broad range of markets we serve and the wide spectrum of services we provide offer career opportunities that are virtually unmatched in the industry. URS is a growing and vibrant organisation offering excellent benefits and employment conditions. We are proud to be able to offer a range of exciting projects as well as a variety of career directions for all our staff. At URS you really can work on some of the largest and most challenging projects in the world. Who are we? JobsTheWord is not a recruitment agency. We simply engage with employers directly to promote their current vacancies to people just like you, so you become aware of roles that may be of interest. I appreciate you may not be looking for a new position, but I thought I would make you aware of the role as it could be a great opportunity. If you are interested, please apply directly to the employer using the link above. With thanks Jade Chalmers JobsTheWord Twitter: http://email.jobstheword.com/c/aT0xMDk4NjIwMjkuMTY4ODg1LjE0MDAxNjg4OTQ0NDMlNDBzbXRwLm1haWxndW4ub3JnJmg9MDEwYThlZDg5NTRlMWFmMmIxN2NiZDk2M2UyOWQ3YjEmcj1pbm91eWUlNDB1bWQuZWR1JmQ9Yjg5YiZsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cudHdpdHRlci5jb20lMkZqb2JzdGhld29yZAwww.twitter.com/jobstheword Facebook:http://email.jobstheword.com/c/aT0xMDk4NjIwMjkuMTY4ODg1LjE0MDAxNjg4OTQ0NDMlNDBzbXRwLm1haWxndW4ub3JnJmg9NzgxMTUxZjYwODNiMzI2NzMxZDhiZjFlOTU4NDEwYWImcj1pbm91eWUlNDB1bWQuZWR1JmQ9Yjg5YiZsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cuZmFjZWJvb2suY29tJTJGam9ic3RoZXdvcmQwww.facebook.com/jobstheword LinkedIn: http://email.jobstheword.com/c/aT0xMDk4NjIwMjkuMTY4ODg1LjE0MDAxNjg4OTQ0NDMlNDBzbXRwLm1haWxndW4ub3JnJmg9MDdjNDYwOTY2YTc0ZmQxMjNhZGQ1MjE0ZmIxY2EwYjAmcj1pbm91eWUlNDB1bWQuZWR1JmQ9Yjg5YiZsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cubGlua2VkaW4uY29tJTJGZ3JvdXBzJTNGZ2lkJTNEMzk2NjA0Nghttp://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3966046 Blog: http://email.jobstheword.com/c/aT0xMDk4NjIwMjkuMTY4ODg1LjE0MDAxNjg4OTQ0NDMlNDBzbXRwLm1haWxndW4ub3JnJmg9OGU2Y2YzN2U4MjU2NjZiMTZkYTBmYTMyMTQyNjI3ZGYmcj1pbm91eWUlNDB1bWQuZWR1JmQ9Yjg5YiZsPWh0dHAlM0ElMkYlMkZibG9nLmpvYnN0aGV3b3JkLmNvLnVrJTJGhttp://blog.jobstheword.co.uk
Re: [ECOLOG-L] interesting flowering following a California fire last year
Thank you for this. Here is a good generalized article on the very misunderstood ecology of fire, appropriately named, /_The Ecology of Fire_/: The ecology of fire by: C. F. Cooper http://www.citeulike.org/group/10326/author/Cooper:CF /Scientific American/, Vol. 204, No. 4. (1961) Thank you. Mike Nolan On 5/15/2014 10:34 AM, David Inouye wrote: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/After-inferno-Mt-Diablo-bursts-with-long-hidden-5475899.php After inferno, Mt. Diablo bursts with long-hidden flowers -- If we are on another line or away from the phone, please leave your number, best time to return your call and your e-mail address. After hours and weekend phone appointments are available upon request. Sincerely, J. Michael Nolan, Director Rainforest and Reef Try to learn something about everything and everything about something. -Thomas H. Huxley PLEASE CONFIRM THE RECEIPT OF THIS E-MAIL. THANK YOU. * Outstanding-Affordable Field Courses in Rainforest Marine Ecology References/Comments from past Group Leaders and Individual Participants can be found at: http://rainforestandreef.org/comments.htm, many more available upon request. U.S.: Rainforest and Reef 161 Main St. Coopersville, MI 49404 International Phone from outside the U.S. or Canada: 011.616.604.0546 Toll Free U.S. and Canada: 1.877.255.3721 Cell Phone: 1.616.312.5744 Skype: rainforestandreeffieldcourses E-mail: mno...@rainforestandreef.org or travelwithra...@gmail.com Note: Please send inquiries to both e-mail addresses Web: http://rainforestandreef.org (under revision for 2014 and beyond) Europe: Rainforest and Reef Haguenau, France Att: Marion Stephan Local/International Phone: 49.0.177.1747485 Skype: walli044 E-mail: mstep...@rainforestandreef.org *
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses
For those particularly interested in field ecology for instance Hi all For those particularly interested in field ecology for instance; there are some great programmes out there in field ecology (I have an interest in eco-chemistry). In CA for instance at the College of the Atlantic there is this graduate program: http://www.coa.edu/field-ecology-conservation-biology.htm At UC Riverside you can take a certificate at UCR extension in field ecology http://www.extension.ucr.edu/academics/certificates/field_ecology.html Locally down the road from me at UC Davis, where I teach part time, graduate students have to take field courses as part of the program: http://ecology.ucdavis.edu/programs/ and where I teach at Sacramento City College we have a certificate program in Field Ecology (within the Biology dept) - great set of courses/classes http://www.scc.losrios.edu/biology/field-ecology-certificate/ Regards Ling Ling Huang Sacramento City College http://huangl.webs.com http://www.scc.losrios.edu From: Cory corywsu2...@gmail.com To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2014 8:50 PM Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses Hello everyone, I have to agree with Amod - it comes down to funds and jobs. I went into a Masters wanting to dedicate my career to basic field ecology (and that is what my MS thesis was in), but after two years of non-funded research project and very low stipend I redirected my research to molecular entomology. This allows me to have a small focus of ecology and fieldwork, but there are many more grant and job opportunities. Although I would love to go back to basic field biology, it isn't financially wise until the funding situation greatly improves. Many thanks, Cory On May 14, 2014, at 8:01 PM, amod saini ammod.sa...@gmail.com wrote: Hello Mates, just to add from India also some direction, here is the same dilemma..now ecology students are demotivated by biotechnological advances and ecological students have to divert their career because biotech and biochemistry student replacing them very fastmyself was ecology student and i had to divert my career to support my family(otherwise i had to face problem even for my bread)there was a very less money for ecology projects than others one...so they are discouraged at many account.. amod, north India Forest ecologist On 15 May 2014 02:11, Judith S. Weis jw...@andromeda.rutgers.edu wrote: Also field trips/courses may be more expensive to run with transportation of groups of students to field sites etc etc. I don't think we should worry about the status thing. We all know that what we do is the most fun, and students often rate the field trips as the best part of the class. It's not just a US issue - we have seen similar pressures to reduce the field component in degrees in the UK and across Europe. It's worth reading the piece by Robert Arlinghaus (pages 212-215) in the May issue of Fisheries http://fisheries.org/docs/wp/UFSH395_final_web.pdf (PDF), where he makes the point that the academic status of those doing dirty/field stuff is less than that of their peers doing 'clean' lab work. Arlinghaus, R. (2014) Are current research evaluation metrics causing a tragedy of the scientific commons and the extinction of university-based fisheries programs? Fisheries, 39, 212-215. Chris Dr Chris Harrod* Senior Lecturer in Fish Aquatic Ecology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences Queen Mary University of London 1.31 Fogg Building Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK Email: c.har...@qmul.ac.uk Twitter: @chris_harrod UK Mobile: +44 (0) 797 741 9314 UK Office: +44 (0) 207 882 6367 http://webspace.qmul.ac.uk/charrod/ http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/research/researchgroups/aquaticecology *Chile address Instituto de Ciencias Naturales Alexander Von Humboldt, Universidad de Antofagasta, Avenida Angamos 601, Antofagasta, Chile *Chile Mobile: +56 9 7399 7792 *Chile Office: +56 55 637400 -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Fisher, Shannon J Sent: 14 May 2014 12:36 To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Loss of field-based courses At the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference in Kansas City this past January, I noted the absence of many University graduate students that once represented the cutting edge of natural resource research. The programs that have nearly all but vanished are from large research institutions that followed the path Mike described below. In fact, one major university in my area has fisheries students - yes, fisheries students, that graduate with both B.S. and M.S degrees that have never once set a net, measured a fish, or run a boat. It is very shocking to potential
Re: [ECOLOG-L] interesting flowering following a California fire last year
I wish the article had addressed the issue of seed dormancy. Had those fire-flower seeds been waiting their chance in-place for forty years, or were they somehow transported into the burned zone after the fire? Martin M. Meiss 2014-05-15 10:34 GMT-04:00 David Inouye ino...@umd.edu: http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/After-inferno-Mt- Diablo-bursts-with-long-hidden-5475899.php After inferno, Mt. Diablo bursts with long-hidden flowers
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc in Spatial Biodiversity Modelling - Map of Life, Yale
A postdoc position is available under a new Phase II NSF grant for the collaborative Map of Life project (www.mol.org) at Yale University, associated with the larger research and training environment of the Yale SBSC Program. Review of applications will begin 1st June 2014 and continue until positions are filled. POSITION: We are looking for a talented young scientist with superior skills in model-based integration and analysis of biodiversity, remote sensing, geospatial and species trait data. Background in Bayesian approaches, programming (development of libraries in R, analysis tools etc.) and remote sensing is particularly welcome. The successful candidate will have a compelling publication record, an interest in developing own research questions, and a proven ability to work both independently and in larger teams. The postdoc is expected to engage on collaborative projects with the larger Map of Life team (primarily at Yale in the Lab of PI Jetz, but also with project partners CU Boulder, BiK-F Frankfurt, Cornell Lab of Ornithology). Potential areas of work include cross-scale models of species occupancy and abundance, environmental (remote-sensing based) niche evaluations and single and multi-species global change assessments, conservation and trait biogeography. The position is primarily based at Yale, but can include research visits to other universities. Applications from both within and outside the US are welcome. Preferred start date for the position is fall 2015, but there is flexibility. There are additional funding opportunities in the broader areas of macroecology, biogeography and global change, especially for applicants who are interested in jointly considering independent fellowships to come to Yale (e.g. EU Marie Curie, Humboldt Lynen fellowship, ARC, NERC, YIBS, etc.). To apply please email a short cover letter, CV and contact details of three referees (all in one pdf) to walter.j...@yale.edu with Biodiversity postdoc in the subject line. RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT: See the Map of Life website (www.mol.or) for additional project information. The new interdisciplinary SBSC program (sbsc.yale.edu) at Yale connects biodiversity scientists from across the Yale campus and has core staff support. Yale has a thriving and growing community of postdocs and graduate students in ecology, evolution and global change science in the EEB Department, the Yale Institute for Biospheric Studies, the Peabody Museum, the Yale Climate Energy Institute, and the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. The town and campus are renowned for the classic Ivy League setting, 75 miles north of New York City.
[ECOLOG-L] Biodiversity Data Manager Position, Map of Life, Yale University
A biodiversity data manager position (4 years) is available under a new Phase II NSF grant for the collaborative Map of Life project (www.mol.org) at Yale University, associated with the larger research and training environment of the Yale SBSC Program (http://sbsc.yale.edu/) and the Lab group of PI Jetz (http://jetzlab.yale.edu/) . Review of applications will begin 1st June 2014 and continue until positions are filled. POSITION: We are seeking a qualified candidate to join the international Map of Life team to oversee the management of species distribution information and associated metadata. The data manager will interact with contributors worldwide, manage the in-house data team, supervise data discovery, storage, quality control and analysis. Strong background in programming (e.g. Python), spatial analysis (GIS) and SQL (e.g. PostgreSQL/PostGIS) are key qualifications as are strong interpersonal and communication skills. Strong candidates would hold a Masters or PhD degree (applicants without a graduate degree but work substantial experience will also be considered), have strong knowledge and passion about the diversity and biogeography of life. Preferred start date for the position is summer/fall 2015. To apply please email a short cover letter, CV and contact details of 1-3 referees (all in one pdf) to jeremy.malc...@yale.edu with Biodiversity data manager in the subject line. Shorter term employment as well as an extension beyond four years are possible. RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT: See the Map of Life website (www.mol.or) for additional project information. The new interdisciplinary SBSC program (sbsc.yale.edu) at Yale connects biodiversity scientists from across the Yale campus and has core staff support. Yale has a thriving and growing community of postdocs and graduate students in ecology, evolution and global change science in the EEB Department, the Yale Institute for Biospheric Studies, the Peabody Museum, the Yale Climate Energy Institute, and the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. The town and campus are renowned for the classic Ivy League setting, 75 miles north of New York City.
[ECOLOG-L] IAVS Symposium in Perth: early-bird registration deadline extended to June 1
Dear colleagues, For your interest: the International Association of Vegetation Science (http://iavs.org/) is organizing its annual symposium in Perth, Australia from 1-5 September 2014: http://iavs2014.com/ This symposium offers the great opportunity to meet vegetation ecologists from across the world. We still have places available for some of our fascinating excursions. See, for example: http://iavs2014.com/excursion3.php We just extended the deadline for early-bird registration to June 1. On behalf of the LOC, Jesse Kalwij
[ECOLOG-L] 1 year visiting position in Ecology -- Siena College
Siena College - Full-time visiting (one year) faculty position in Biology beginning fall 2014. Teaching duties will include Ecology (lecture and laboratory) and General Biology laboratory. A Ph.D. in Field Biology, earned or in progress, is strongly preferred. Preference will be given to candidates with experience teaching both lecture and laboratory. The ecology class is a semester-long study of the interrelations of organisms with each other and the environment, and includes laboratories that emphasize methodology and field trips to various local habitats. General Biology taught by a team of faculty and there are ample resources for both courses including syllabi, handouts, and field equipment. Salary and benefits are competitive. The wage package includes health insurance benefits. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until the position is filled. Send CV and cover letter, along with three letters of recommendation (may be sent separately) to: Eileen Martino, Biology Department, Siena College, 515 New Loudon Rd., Loudonville, NY 12211, or email emart...@siena.edu . Siena College is committed to attracting, supporting, and retaining a diverse faculty. We actively encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, veterans, and others who may make a positive contribution to the diversification of ideas and perspectives. Siena College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Siena College surveys all job applicants in accordance with the U.S. Department of Labor’s affirmative action requirements. Therefore, we request that in addition to your application, you complete the Equal Employment Opportunity Data Form located at www.siena.edu/eeo. In order to complete the form, you will need the posting number for this position which is R1009. Any information you choose to provide on the Equal Employment Opportunity Data Form will be treated as personal and confidential and will be kept separate from your application for employment. Your cooperation is key to maintaining an effective equal opportunity program at Siena College and is greatly appreciated. _ Sarah K Berke Assistant Professor of Biology Siena College Loudonville NY 12211
[ECOLOG-L] Starting Monday -- Live Stream of NIMBioS Tutorial: Parameter Estimation for Dynamic Biological Models.
NIMBioS will be live streaming portions of its tutorial: *Parameter Estimation for Dynamic Biological Models*, which begins at 8:45 a.m. EDT, Monday, May 19. To log in and view the live stream, visit the Tutorial's web page at http://www.nimbios.org/tutorials/TT_data Note that the login page will not be available until streaming is live, the day of the event. The Tutorial's agenda is available on the web page, but the agenda may be subject to some last minute changes. You can monitor the schedule and participate in the live chat via the Twitter feed using the hashtag #parameterTT
[ECOLOG-L] Job announcement: Post-doc in Ecological Flow Research At USGS Fort Collins Science Center
Post-doc in Ecological Flow Research At USGS Fort Collins Science Center We are recruiting a post-doctoral scientist in Ecological Flow research area, at the Fort Collins Science Center, the United States Geological Survey. See the link https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/369869700 for details. Please note that the application is open on May 15 and will close Wednesday, May 21st, or on the day 80 applications are received whichever occurs first. If you are interested, please apply early, because it can close very soon. I’ll be at JASM next week, if you are interested in the position and would like to meet, let me know. Thanks, QUAN DONG PhD Chief and Supervisory Ecologist Aquatic Systems Branch Fort Collins Science Center 2150 Centre Avenue, Bldg C Fort Collins, CO 80526-8118 Voice: 970-226-9175 qd...@usgs.gov http://www.fort.usgs.gov/ASB/
[ECOLOG-L] Chicago, Data Mining Training (Hands-On, $35), Chicago, May 23rd
Join us for a hands-on data mining training in Chicago, IL on May 23, 2014: * Cost: $35 * Registration: http://hub.am/1mecIVhhttps://app.getsignals.com/link?url=http%3a%2f%2fhub.am%2f1mecIVhukey=agxzfnNpZ25hbHNjcnhyGAsSC1VzZXJQcm9maWxlGICAgMCxqZwIDAk=7ba6f1ce55fc4995837a9282d723551d Agenda: 8:30am-9:00am Breakfast (provided) * 9:00am-12:00pm * Introduction to Data Mining * Case Study Examples 12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch (provided) * 1:00pm-3:00pm * Build and Score Predictive Models * Optimization for Predictive Accuracy * Create Reports: Translating insights into actionable results Why you should attend: * Get step-by-step instruction for the most popular data mining techniques used in predictive analytics including decision trees, classification, segmentation, non-linear regression, ensemble methods, boosted decision trees, etc. * Walk away with everything you will need to start your own data mining projects. * Be ready to apply your new data mining knowledge at your organization to create immediate value. * All attendees receive 90-day access to the SPM Salford Predictive Modeler technology. We hope to see you in Chicago!
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Fellowship in Plant Taxonomy and Ecology - Smithsonian Institution
Postdoctoral Fellowship Plant Taxonomy and Ecology Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute Background: The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) conducts research and monitoring to study, understand, predict, and integrate biodiversity conservation needs with development priorities of mega infrastructure projects. Guided by the principles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, SCBI has worked with a selected group of oil and gas companies since 1996 to develop conservation and development best practices for conserving biodiversity. SCBI conducts research and monitoring to understand, predict, and integrate biodiversity conservation needs with development priorities of mega infrastructure projects. Additionally, SCBI strives to contribute best practices for the implementation of the mitigation hierarchy. The Canada BMAP is a set of scientific monitoring and assessment protocols being created to identify and monitor indicator species and habitats in the area of influence of a natural gas pipeline project. Research description: SCBI is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow who will: 1) identify species and functional diversity of plants, with an emphasis on alpine plants; 2) contribute to the development of successful remediation techniques to restore plant communities; 3) prepare high quality reports and high impact scientific papers related to the research project; and 4) contribute to other research and conservation-related activities for the Canada BMAP and other SCBI projects. The position may involve travel by boat, helicopter, and trucks to remote locations, research in active construction zones, and potential encounters with wildlife. Qualifications: We are seeking a highly motivated individual who should have: 1. A PhD in plant sciences, conservation, restoration, natural resources management, ecology, or related disciplines; 2. Strong taxonomic skills, especially the ability to identify plant species native to British Columbia and its high alpine ecosystem; 3. Experience in testing techniques to restore disturbed or degraded plant communities; 4. Good writing skills and publication experience; 5. Scientific project management skills and ability to work independently; 6. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well in teams; and 7. Physical ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions. Application: Applicants should present: 1) a letter of interest detailing their qualifications for the position (two-page maximum); 2) a curriculum vitae; and 3) three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number). These documents can be sent by email to Sulema Castro (cast...@si.edu) with the indication Canada plant postdoc application in the subject line. Starting date: ASAP Location: based in Washington, District of Columbia, USA with frequent trips to British Columbia Duration: one year, renewable depending on project outcomes. Application deadline: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, so you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
[ECOLOG-L] PhD scholarships: Quantitative plant ecology and conservation management, Monash University
PhD scholarships: Quantitative plant ecology and conservation management Two fully funded PhD positions are available in the group of Joslin Moore in the area of quantitative plant ecology and conservation management at Monash University (School of Biological Sciences). We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated students with good quantitative skills that are interested in using ecological models to better understand the ecology and management of plant communities and populations. The PhD project will be developed in collaboration with the student based on their research interests and strengths. Our research group is focused on using quantitative methods, ecological models and decision analysis to better understand and manage plant communities and populations. We use a combination of field based experiments, observations and modelling to address fundamental questions in plant community ecology as well as developing methods and applications that can be directly implemented by managers. Current projects include grassland response to eutrophication, restoration of native grasslands on the urban fringe, management of invasive willows in alpine Victoria, decision frameworks for targeting invasive species, developing and testing optimal surveillance methods for invasive plants and examining the role of gardening as a pathway for plant invasions. Scholarship details Each PhD stipend is fully-funded for a period of 3.5 years and is open to both Australian/NZ domestic and international students. The stipends include all course fees plus approximately $25,000 AUD per annum tax-free. Domestic students will be encouraged to apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award, with a top-up scholarship awarded to successful recipients (tax-free 2013 rate of approximately $25,000 AUD, top up of $5000). Monash and the School of Biological Sciences Monash is a member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of top Australian universities recognized for their excellence in teaching and research. The School of Biological Sciences is a dynamic unit with strengths in both ecology and genetics and the nexus between these disciplines (http://monash.edu/science/about/schools/biological-sciences/monash.edu/science/about/schools/biological-sciences/). The University is located in Melbourne, one of the most liveable cities in the world and a cultural and recreational hub. Application process Interested candidates should send a short cover letter (email) outlining their research interests and motivation, together with a CV and academic transcript to mailto:joslin.mo...@monash.edujoslin.mo...@monash.edu. Applicants must possess a Bachelor's or equivalent degree with first-class Honours, Master of Science or MPhil. Short-listed candidates will be asked for further information and will be interviewed via video conference. Successful candidates will be encouraged to submit an application for a scholarship. The next deadlines for scholarship applications at Monash University are May 30, 2014 for a 2014 start date and October 31, 2014 for a 2015 start date.
[ECOLOG-L] Student Award Opportunities - ESA 2014 - Sacramento
Students looking to attend the 2014 ESA Annual Meeting! The ESA Student Section would like to announce this year’s awards offered by the Student Section. Please consider applying for one of our four awards including: Eco Service Award, Eco Vision Award, Outstanding Student in Ecology Award, and our Annual Travel Award ($300 Domestic/$500 International). All applicants must be members of the ESA Student Section in order to be considered. All submissions are due June 1, 2014. Find more details and application materials for all award postings on the new ESA Student Section webpage http://www/esastudents.org by visiting http://www.esastudents.org/awards/ Be sure to follow all ESA Student Section Updates on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/pages/Ecological-Society-of-America-Student-Section/761632403864881?ref=hland Twitter https://twitter.com/esa_students -- *Dane Ward * *Ph.D. Candidate* *Laboratory of Pinelands Research* *Department of Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science (BEES)* *Drexel University *
[ECOLOG-L] ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESES AND AIC MODEL SELECTION -- Courses offered
Research workers in many fields are realizing the substantial limitations of statistical significance tests, test statistics, arbitrary alpha levels, P-values, and dichotomous rulings concerning so-called statistical significance. These traditional approaches were developed at the beginning of the last century and are being replaced by modern methods that are much more useful. These methods rely on the concept of information loss and formal measures of evidence. They provide easy-to-compute quantities such as the probability of each hypothes/model, given the data and evidence ratios. Furthermore, simple methods allow formal inference (e.g., prediction/forecasting) from all the models in an a priori set ultimodel inference). I am planning of offer several 2-day courses on the Information-Theoretic (I-T) approaches to statistical inference during the upcoming summer months. These courses focus on the practical application of these new methods and are based on Kullback-Leibler information and Akaike's information criteria (AIC). The material follows the recent textbook, Anderson, D. R. 2008. Model based inference in the life sciences: a primer on evidence. Springer, New York, NY. 184pp. A copy of this book and other material are included in the registration fee. These courses stress science and science philosophy as much as statistical methods. The focus in on quantification and qualification of formal evidence concerning alternative science hypotheses. These courses can be hosted, organized, and delivered at your university, agency, institute, or training center. I have given nearly 70 of these courses and they have been very well received. The courses are informal and discussion and debate are encouraged. Further insights can be found at www.informationtheoryworkshop.com If you are interested in hosting a course at your location, please contact me. Thank you. David R. Anderson quietander...@yahoo.com
