[ECOLOG-L] Introductory distance sampling workshop online

[Eric Rexstad]

If you have wanted to learn about distance sampling, but have not been 
able to attend one of our workshops, those workshop materials are now 
available online.


We have 21 videos of our lectures described by workshop instructors here 
in St Andrews.  There are also PDFs of the lectures.  In addition, there 
are 12 exercises, complete with description, data and discussion of 
solutions.  There are narrated demonstrations of working with the 
distance sampling software, Distance.


https://workshops.distancesampling.org/online-course/

We have plans for covering additional content by adding to the online 
offering.  In future, there may also be live webinars working through 
exercises and datasets.


We are anxious for you to try the course and provide feedback to us.  We 
hope having these materials on line will promote best practices and 
assist in management of wildlife populations around the world.

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshop, St Andrews, August 2018, registration now open

[Eric Rexstad]

- Do you wish to learn about fitting density surface models to distance 
sampling data?

- Are you interested in conducting distance sampling analysis in R?
- Do you want to simulate the performance of a distance sampling survey 
to produce the best design for your study objective?

If you answered yes to any of the above, then keep reading.

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting an  intermediate-level workshop in the summer of 2018 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, 
Scotland.  The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, 
using industry-standard software.


The five day workshop will start on Monday 27 August at 09:00, with 
registration from 08:45, at CREEM, and finish on Friday 31 August at 
17:00.  Instructors will include Dr David L. Miller, Dr Laura H. 
Marshall and Prof Len J. Thomas.  For a preview of the workshop 
contents, materials from last year's workshop can be viewed at


http://workshops.distancesampling.org/stand-intermed-2017/

There are two pre-requisites for this workshop: a) understanding of 
conventional distance sampling and b) basic competence with the R 
programming language.  Pre-requisite (a) can be fulfilled by 
understanding of fundamental materials presented in Buckland et al. 
(2001, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7) or Buckland et al. (2015, Chapters 1, 
2, 4, 5 and 6) — e.g., through previous training or by independent study.


Pre-requisite (b) can be achieved by either working through 
instructional materials in R available at https://datacamp.com, or by 
attending the one-day "Distance sampling in R" preceding the workshop 
(26 August 2018 0900-1700). You will also find the one day workshop 
useful for conducting conventional distance sampling analyses in R.


The first day of the workshop will review fundamental principles of 
distance sampling, analyses involving conventional distance sampling and 
survey design.  Subsequently, attention will turn to simulation of 
distance sampling surveys for design purposes, and to survey and 
analysis methods for dealing with imperfect detection on the trackline 
(double-observer methods). Slightly more than two days will be devoted 
to spatial modelling of distance sampling data.  A blend of the latest 
version Distance 7 and the R computing language will be employed.  
Throughout the workshop, there will be time for instructors to work with 
participants on their specific analysis problems.


Further details and registration instructions can be found at

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/intermediate-level-distance-sampling-training-workshop-2018/

[ECOLOG-L] Intermediate distance sampling workshop St Andrews: early bird registration closing soon

[Eric Rexstad]

Third announcement:

New information contained in this notice:
 - Early-bird registration closes 30 June 2017 (two weeks!)
 - A series (~7) of video lectures at this YouTube channel 
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8k5p7gTuzQyvDreXY4F_oHSQ6ycovBw8 
These videos will serve as good background (and refresher) in 
preparation for this intermediate workshop.
 - For those unable to travel to St Andrews to attend the intermediate 
workshop, a limited number of spaces are available to attend the 
workshop via videoconference link.  Participants to the workshop via 
this medium will have reduced one-on-one interaction with instructors.  
Consequently, videoconference participants will receive a 25% discount 
to their registration.  Recognise the videoconference will be conducted 
in real time; if you are in time zones distant from Scotland, your sleep 
patterns will need to adjust for that week.




The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting an intermediate-level workshop in the summer of 2017 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, 
Scotland.  The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, 
including Len Thomas (@len_thom) and Dave Miller (@millerdl), using 
industry-standard software (visit http://distancesampling.org for more 
details).


The five day workshop will start on Monday 31st July at 09:00, with 
registration from 08:45, at CREEM, and finish on Friday 4th August at 
17:00.


There are two pre-requisites for this workshop: a) understanding of 
conventional distance sampling and b) basic competence with the R 
programming language.  Pre-requisite (a) can be fulfilled by 
understanding of fundamental materials presented in Buckland et al. 
(2001, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7) or Buckland et al. (2015, Chapters 1, 
2, 4, 5 and 6) — e.g., through previous training or by independent study.


Pre-requisite (b) can be achieved by either working through 
instructional materials in R available at https://www.datacamp.com , or 
by attending a free half-day tutorial preceding the workshop (30 July 
2017 1400-1700). (details available at the link below)


The first day of the workshop will review fundamental principles of 
distance sampling, analyses involving conventional distance sampling and 
survey design.  Subsequently, attention will turn to simulation of 
distance sampling surveys for design purposes (DSsim package), and to 
survey and analysis methods for dealing with imperfect detection on the 
trackline (double-observer methods) (MRDS package). Slightly more than 
two days will be devoted to spatial (density surface) modelling of 
distance sampling data (dsm package).  A blend of the latest version 
Distance 7 and the R computing language will be employed.  Throughout 
the workshop, there will be unstructured time, with instructors working 
with participants on their specific problems.


Further details and registration instructions can be found at

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/intermediate-level-distance-sampling-training-workshop-2017/ 





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[ECOLOG-L] New information 2017 intermediate distance sampling workshop St Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

Second announcement:

New information contained in this notice:
 - We are preparing a new version of the Distance for Windows (Distance 
7.1) for use in this workshop.  It will have additional features for 
density surface modelling and distance sampling simulation.  Follow 
progress of the new version via the Twitter feed @DistanceSamp
 - As preparation for this intermediate workshop, we hope to have 
introductory workshop materials freely-available online before the end 
of June.  Until those introductory materials are available, there are a 
series (~7) of video lectures at this YouTube channel 
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8k5p7gTuzQyvDreXY4F_oHSQ6ycovBw8
 - For those unable to travel to St Andrews to attend the intermediate 
workshop, a limited number of spaces are available to attend the 
workshop via videoconference link.  Participants to the workshop via 
this medium will have reduced one-on-one interaction with instructors.  
Consequently, videoconference participants will receive a 25% discount 
to their registration.  Recognise the videoconference will be conducted 
in real time; if you are in time zones distant from Scotland, your sleep 
patterns will need to adjust for that week.




The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting an intermediate-level workshop in the summer of 2017 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, 
Scotland.  The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, 
including Len Thomas (@len_thom), Dave Miller (@millerdl) and Laura 
Marshall (@DistanceSamp), using industry-standard software (visit 
http://distancesampling.org for more details).


The five day workshop will start on Monday 31st July at 09:00, with 
registration from 08:45, at CREEM, and finish on Friday 4th August at 17:00.


There are two pre-requisites for this workshop: a) understanding of 
conventional distance sampling and b) basic competence with the R 
programming language.  Pre-requisite (a) can be fulfilled by 
understanding of fundamental materials presented in Buckland et al. 
(2001, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7) or Buckland et al. (2015, Chapters 1, 
2, 4, 5 and 6) — e.g., through previous training or by independent study.


Pre-requisite (b) can be achieved by either working through 
instructional materials in R available at https://www.datacamp.com , or 
by attending a free half-day tutorial preceding the workshop (30 July 
2017 1400-1700). (details available at the link below)


The first day of the workshop will review fundamental principles of 
distance sampling, analyses involving conventional distance sampling and 
survey design.  Subsequently, attention will turn to simulation of 
distance sampling surveys for design purposes (DSsim package), and to 
survey and analysis methods for dealing with imperfect detection on the 
trackline (double-observer methods) (MRDS package). Slightly more than 
two days will be devoted to spatial (density surface) modelling of 
distance sampling data (dsm package).  A blend of the latest version 
Distance 7 and the R computing language will be employed.  Throughout 
the workshop, there will be unstructured time, with instructors working 
with participants on their specific problems.


Further details and registration instructions can be found at

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/intermediate-level-distance-sampling-training-workshop-2017/


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Intermediate-level distance sampling training workshop 31 July -- 04 August 2017

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting an  intermediate-level workshop in the summer of 2017 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, 
Scotland.  The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, 
using industry-standard software.


The five day workshop will start on Monday 31st July at 09:00, with 
registration from 08:45, at CREEM, and finish on Friday 4th August at 17:00.


There are two pre-requisites for this workshop: a) understanding of 
conventional distance sampling and b) basic competence with the R 
programming language.  Pre-requisite (a) can be fulfilled by 
understanding of fundamental materials presented in Buckland et al. 
(2001, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7) or Buckland et al. (2015, Chapters 1, 
2, 4, 5 and 6) — e.g., through previous training or by independent study.


Pre-requisite (b) can be achieved by either working through 
instructional materials in R available at datacamp.com, or by attending 
a free half-day tutorial preceding the workshop (30 July 2017 
1400-1700). Please register for this tutorial on the registration form 
at the bottom of this page.


The first day of the workshop will review fundamental principles of 
distance sampling, analyses involving conventional distance sampling and 
survey design.  Subsequently, attention will turn to simulation of 
distance sampling surveys for design purposes, and to survey and 
analysis methods for dealing with imperfect detection on the trackline 
(double-observer methods). Slightly more than two days will be devoted 
to spatial modelling of distance sampling data.  A blend of the latest 
version Distance 7 and the R computing language will be employed.  
Throughout the workshop, there will be unstructured time, with 
instructors working with participants on their specific problems.


Further details and registration instructions can be found at

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/intermediate-level-distance-sampling-training-workshop-2017/

[ECOLOG-L] Places still available, distance sampling workshops, St Andrews August 2016

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2016 
at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. This third announcement is 
to note


·/Earlybird registration discount/ will soon expire (see website URL at 
bottom of this note to reserve a place)


·As part of the registration fee, participants will receive the 2015 
book published by Springer /*Distance Sampling: Methods and 
Application*/ by Buckland et al. that focuses upon topics of relevance 
to distance sampling practitioners.The case studies found in this book 
will form the basis of both the introductory and advanced workshops.


The first workshop (16-19 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (22-25 August) will include 
advanced treatment of analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of R 
packages for performing standard as well as sophisticated analyses in R.


For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to perform preliminary analyses of their data.  
Participants can use our computers or bring their own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop contents and registration 
details can be found at our website


http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2016-2/

The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops St Andrews, August 2016, second notice

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2016 
at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. This second announcement is 
to note


·Workshop registration is now open (see website URL at bottom of this 
note to reserve a place)


·As part of the registration fee, participants will receive the 2015 
book Distance Sampling: Methods and Application by Buckland et al. that 
focuses upon topics of relevance to distance sampling practitioners.The 
case studies found in this book will form the basis of both the 
introductory and advanced workshops.



The first workshop (16-19 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.



The advanced distance sampling workshop (22-25 August) will include 
advanced treatment of analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of R 
packages for performing standard as well as sophisticated analyses in R.



For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to perform preliminary analyses of their data. 
Participants can use our computers or bring their own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop contents and registration 
details can be found at our website


http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2016-2/

[ECOLOG-L] Spatial capture-recapture training workshops, Summer 2016

[Eric Rexstad]

Two spatial capture-recapture (SCR) training workshops.The workshops 
have overlapping content, but different duration (hence intensity). 
Instructors for both workshops are David Borchers, Ben Stevenson and 
Eric Rexstad of the Univ of St Andrews. Each workshop is limited to 30 
participants.


The workshops will cover the key concepts underlying SCR methods, and 
provide training in use of the methods. They will cover binary, count 
and time-to-detection data types, and all kinds of detectors, including 
camera traps, hair snares, acoustic detectors, mist nets and 
single-catch traps, and transect and area searches. Participants will 
get hands-on training in estimating density, abundance and related 
parameters.Issues of measures of precision and model selection will be 
discussed.Use of SCR with spatially-referenced variables for generating 
predictions of animal density and habitat use across landscapes will be 
covered.


Training workshop in Seattle 26 June 2016.One day workshop held 
immediately prior to the International Statistical Ecology Conference on 
the campus of the University of Washington.Workshop will introduce 
participants to SCR methods ranging from the most basic to the most 
recently developed.Some example analyses (using R) will be conducted 
during the workshop.


Further information and registration details for Seattle workshop can be 
found at


http://depts.washington.edu/uwconf/wordpress/isec2016/workshops/

Training workshop in St Andrews 29-31 August 2016.Target audience is 
biologists/ecologists who intend to, or are currently using spatial 
capture-recapture methods for the estimation of 
abundance/density/distribution.The workshop will be hands-on, primarily 
using the R package 'secr', although mention will be made of other 
software.Participants are encouraged to bring their own data formatted 
for use by 'secr' or 'admbsecr' (primarily for acoustic data). 
Familiarity with the R language is assumed and will be aided with 
pre-workshop online tutorials.


Further information and registration details for St Andrews workshop can 
be found at


http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/spatial-capture-recapture-workshop-29-31-august-2016/

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, St Andrews August 2016

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2016 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, 
Scotland. Participation in these workshops will train participants in 
the latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, 
including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.



The first workshop (16-19 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.  Note that we have moved the 'automated survey design' 
and 'incorporating covariates in detection function' from the advanced 
workshop into the introductory workshop.



The advanced distance sampling workshop (22-25 August) will include 
advanced treatment of analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of R 
packages for performing standard as well as sophisticated analyses in R. 
The aim of this workshop is to perform non-standard and sophisticated 
distance sampling analyses. It is also an opportunity for those actively 
engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance sampling 
surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future research 
directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and computer 
sessions, with considerable time for discussion.



For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2016-2/

[ECOLOG-L] Third notice: Distance sampling training workshop, August 2015, St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2015 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, 
Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the 
latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, 
including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.  We will be 
using the latest version of Distance, Version 7, currently in test 
release, available here: 
http://distancesampling.org/Distance/distance70download.html


The first workshop (11-14 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys. 'Automated survey design' and 'incorporating 
covariates in detection function' have moved from the advanced workshop 
into the introductory workshop.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (17-20 August) will include 
advanced treatment of:  analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or  density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of 
new R packages we have developed for performing standard as well as 
sophisticated analyses in R. The aim of this workshop is to bring 
participants up to date with the latest developments in distance 
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those 
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance 
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future 
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and 
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.


For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our computer classroom (attached to the 
seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their own 
laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website
http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/workshops/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2015/

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, St. Andrews, August 2015

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2015 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, 
Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the 
latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, 
including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (11-14 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.  Note that we have moved the 'automated survey design' 
and 'incorporating covariates in detection function' from the advanced 
workshop into the introductory workshop.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (17-20 August) will include 
advanced treatment of:  analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or  density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of 
new R packages we have developed for performing standard as well as 
sophisticated analyses in R. The aim of this workshop is to bring 
participants up to date with the latest developments in distance 
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those 
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance 
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future 
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and 
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.


For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website

http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/workshops/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2015/ 

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling training workshops August 2014-early registration deadline next week

[Eric Rexstad]

Ecolog:

A few places still remain for the introductory and advanced distance 
sampling workshops held in St. Andrews in late August.  Early 
registration deadline (with discount) is next Friday (18 July). Visit 
the workshop website for registration details:

http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2014/workshop_overview.html

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 
2014 in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, 
Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the 
latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, 
including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by 
leading researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (19-22 August) will run at an introductory level, 
and will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a 
solid grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for 
distance sampling surveys.  Note that we have moved the 'automated 
survey design' and 'incorporating covariates in detection function' 
from the advanced workshop into the introductory workshop.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (25-28 August) will include 
advanced treatment of:  analyses in which detectability on the 
transect line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) 
problem) and spatial (or  density surface) modelling. We will also 
showcase a series of new R packages we have developed for performing 
standard as well as sophisticated analyses in R. The aim of this 
workshop is to bring participants up to date with the latest 
developments in distance sampling methods and software. It is also an 
opportunity for those actively engaged in the design, analysis and 
execution of distance sampling surveys to discuss common issues and 
problems, and set future research directions. The workshop will be a 
combination of lectures and computer sessions, with considerable time 
for discussion.


For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom 
(attached to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or 
bring their own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website

http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2014/workshop_overview.html



--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling training workshops August 2014

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2014 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, 
Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the 
latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, 
including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (19-22 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the 
standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.  Note that we have moved the 'automated survey design' 
and 'incorporating covariates in detection function' from the advanced 
workshop into the introductory workshop.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (25-28 August) will include 
advanced treatment of:  analyses in which detectability on the transect 
line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and 
spatial (or  density surface) modelling. We will also showcase a series 
of new R packages we have developed for performing standard as well as 
sophisticated analyses in R. The aim of this workshop is to bring 
participants up to date with the latest developments in distance 
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those 
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance 
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future 
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and 
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.


For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website

http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2014/workshop_overview.html

[ECOLOG-L] fully-funded PhD studentship in statistical ecology

[Eric Rexstad]

PhD Studentship, University of St Andrews and Max Planck Institute for 
Evolutionary Anthropology


We are currently looking for a student to undertake a PhD to analyse 
data from the Pan-African Great Ape Monitoring Program.  This program 
is  conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary 
Anthropology,  with advice on survey design from the Centre for Research 
into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) at St Andrews.  It 
seeks to estimate abundance of bonobos, chimpanzees and gorillas by 
conducting line transect surveys of nests throughout their ranges.  The 
student will be based at CREEM, on a studentship fully funded by the 
University of St Andrews and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary 
Anthropology.  The project will be to analyse the survey data, first to 
estimate abundance by region, and then to develop spatial models to 
quantify how density varies through each region.


For more information, contact Steve Buckland (st...@st-andrews.ac.uk) or 
Jessi Junker (jessica_jun...@eva.mpg.de).

[ECOLOG-L] Abstract submission open for Intl. Statistical Ecology Conference 3-6 July 2012 in Norway

[Eric Rexstad]

Submission of abstracts is now open for the third biennial International 
Statistical Ecology Conference will be held 3-6 July 2012, hosted by the 
Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis at the Department of 
Biology of the University of Oslo. The conference location will be the 
Sundvolden Hotel outside Oslo.


We have an extraordinary group of plenary speakers, whose presentation 
topics are:


- Nils Chr. Stenseth, Univ. of Oslo (Norway): Opening remarks
- Steinar Engen, Norwegian Univ. of Science and Technology (Norway): 
stochastic age-structured modelling, including dynamics, genetics and 
some estimation

- Rachel Fewster, Univ. of Aukland (N.Z.): genetics in statistical ecology
- Joanne Flemming, Dalhousie University (Canada): The Ocean Tracking 
Network: visualization tools and novel analyses for acoustic tracking data
- Otso Ovaskainen, Univ. of Helsinki (Finland): the analysis of spatial 
data: individual movements and species and community models
- Andre Punt, Univ. of Washington (U.S.): estimating precautionary 
thresholds for US west coast fisheries
- Andy Royle, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center (U.S.): Incorporating 
auxiliary spatial information in capture-recapture models
- Len Thomas, Univ. of St. Andrews (Scotland): The future of statistical 
ecology


Training workshops will also be held prior to the conference:

- AD Model builder (30 June - 1 July at Finse): Mark Maunder, Hans Skaug 
and Andres Nielsen
- Hierarchical modelling and R-package 'unmarked' (2 July at Finse): 
Andy Royle and Richard Chandler
- Population genetics for statisticians (2-3 July at Sundvollen): Rachel 
Fewster and Arnaud le Rouzic

- Model selection (3 July at Sundvollen): Nils Lid Hjort

The local organising committee has negotiated low rates for 
accommodation at the conference hotel.  There is also a conveniently 
located camping venue with a choice of 4-6 person cabins.  Attendees 
from developing countries can submit applications for stipends.


Abstract submission deadline is 20 January 2012.  Further details are 
available at the conference website http://www.cees.uio.no/isec2012/

[ECOLOG-L] Introductory distance sampling workshop 3-6 December in Tampa Florida

[Eric Rexstad]

Places are still available for an introductory distance sampling 
workshop to be held at the Tampa Marriott Westshore 3-6 December 2011.  
The workshop will immediately follow the conclusion of the Marine Mammal 
Conference being held in Tampa and will be presented by Prof. Steve 
Buckland and Dr. Len Thomas along with others from the Univ. of St. 
Andrews.


Please consult the website 
(http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/floridaoverview.html) 
for a description of the workshop content and the registration process.


Registration is a five step process:

1) visit 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/floridaoverview.html 
and click on the 'Registration' menu option, there you will find a link 
to the 'registration form.'
2) complete the registration form and email or fax it back to Rhona (as 
described on the form),
3) follow the link on the Word registration form (page 2) to go to the 
St. Andrews on-line shop to make payment,
4) return to the Registration page in your browser and complete the 
questionnaire at the bottom of the page to provide us with additional 
information about you so we can organise our materials to suit, and finally
5) optionally return to the "Florida overview" web page and near the 
bottom of that page you will find a link to the hotel hosting the 
workshop where you can make room reservations.

[ECOLOG-L] Introductory distance sampling workshop 3-6 December in Tampa Florida

[Eric Rexstad]

Registration is officially open for an introductory distance sampling 
workshop to be held at the Tampa Marriott Westshore 3-6 December 2011.  
The workshop will immediately follow the conclusion of the Marine Mammal 
Conference being held in Tampa and will be presented by Prof. Steve 
Buckland and Dr. Len Thomas along with others from the Univ. of St. 
Andrews.  The early registration deadline is 1 September.


Please consult the website 
(http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/floridaoverview.html) 
for a description of the workshop content and the registration process.


Registration is a five step process:

1) visit 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/floridaoverview.html 
and click on the 'Registration' menu option, there you will find a link 
to the 'registration form.'
2) complete the registration form and email or fax it back to Rhona (as 
described on the form),
3) follow the link on the Word registration form (page 2) to go to the 
St. Andrews on-line shop to make payment,
4) return to the Registration page in your browser and complete the 
questionnaire at the bottom of the page to provide us with additional 
information about you so we can organise our materials to suit, and finally
5) optionally return to the "Florida overview" web page and near the 
bottom of that page you will find a link to the hotel hosting the 
workshop where you can make room reservations.

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, August/September 2011, University of St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2011 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The 
aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods 
for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and 
point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the 
field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (30 August - 2 September) will run at an introductory 
level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as 
described in the standard reference book "Introduction to Distance 
Sampling." The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and 
participants will learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants 
will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of 
analysis for distance sampling surveys.  Note this year we have moved 
the 'automated survey design' topic out of the advanced workshop into 
the introductory workshop.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (5-7 September) will include 
advanced treatment of: incorporating covariates in detection function 
modelling, analyses in which detectability on the transect line is not 
assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and spatial (or 
density surface) modelling. The aim of this workshop is to bring 
participants up to date with the latest developments in distance 
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those 
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance 
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future 
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and 
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.


For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptops.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2011/workshop_overview.html

[ECOLOG-L] Introduction to statistical modelling, Univ. of St. Andrews 25-28 January 2011

[Eric Rexstad]

Introduction to statistical modelling, Univ. of St. Andrews 25-28 
January 2011


Introduction to statistical modelling
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
25-28 January 2011, University of St. Andrews
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/workshops/statsmodelling11/statsmodelling11.html

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) at the University of St. Andrews will be running a 4 day 
`Statistical Modelling’ workshop to introduce basic statistical 
modelling techniques. The workshop will cover Linear Models and 
Generalized Linear Models to help participants analyse continuous, 
presence/absence and count data. The course will be heavily data-based 
and presented using a marine mammal case study and workshop practicals 
will be based around an impact assessment analysis. The R software 
package will be used for workshop-based practicals but no prior 
experience with the R package is assumed.


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Two workshops on the Analysis of Capture-Recapture Data held in St Andrews, Scotland (early registration 10 August)

[Eric Rexstad]

Workshop 1: Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop - 6-7th 
September 2010
Workshop 2: Bayesian Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop - 
8-10th September 2010


Further details:

Workshop 1: *Analysis of Capture-Recapture Data Workshop* - Instructors: 
Professor Byron Morgan and Dr Rachel McCrea
This workshop will cover the essentials of statistical methods for the 
analysis of capture-recapture data. Methods of classical inference based 
on likelihood construction and maximisation will be used throughout. The 
workshop will include both introductory and advanced material, including 
current research. The workshop will be led by Professor Byron Morgan and 
Dr Rachel McCrea both based at the University of Kent in Canterbury. 
They are in the process of writing a book "Analysis of Capture-Recapture 
Data" which will form the basis of the workshop. One extensive 
application, on cormorants, /Phalacrocorax carbo/, will be used to 
integrate different aspects of the work. Additional data sets will be 
provided for individual experimentation. The four computer practical 
sessions will use programs and packages written in the free language R 
as well as code for symbolic algebra package Maple. Talks will be 
accompanied by copies of talk slides, and memory sticks will be provided 
which will contain more detailed notes, computer programs and data sets, 
as well as the talk slides. Participants are encouraged to bring their 
own data sets for discussion and analysis. By the end of the workshop, 
participants will have the confidence and ability to fit a wide range of 
capture-recapture models, for use in ecology and other areas of 
application. The workshop will form the basis for the subsequent 
workshop on /Bayesian analysis for Population Ecology/.


Earlybird registration for workshop 1 (before 10th August) will be £360 
(and £290 for students).


Workshop 2: *Bayesian Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop* - 
Instructors: Dr Ruth King, Prof Byron Morgan and Dr Olivier Gimenez


Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population 
ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the 
underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational 
algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology, with particular 
focus on mark-recapture-recovery data. The workshop will begin with an 
introduction to Bayesian methods and the Markov chain Monte Carlo 
algorithm before considering more advanced topics, including, for 
example, random effects models, state-space models, dealing with missing 
data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities and model 
averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. 
Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated using a range of 
ecological capture-recapture examples. The workshop will make use of 
(and provide) the recently published book "Bayesian Analysis for 
Population Ecology" by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The workshop 
will combine lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using 
and adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers in both 
WinBUGS and R. In addition to the book, particpants will also receive a 
memeory stick containing the talk slides, datasets analysed and all the 
WinBUGS and R codes used in the workshop. No prior knowledge of Bayesian 
methods will be assumed, however, we will assume that delegates will 
either have attended the “Analysis of Capture-recapture Data” workshop 
immediately prior to this workshop or have knowledge or experience of 
capture-recapture data and the Cormack-Jolly-Seber (CJS) model. Workshop 
participants will acquire new statistical tools for answering important 
questions relevant to the conservation and management of wild animal 
populations.


Earlybird registration for workshop 2 (before 10th August) will be £540 
(and £430 for students).


For further information, including a complete draft schedule for each 
workshop, registration information and contact details, see 
http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/workshops.aspx and associated links.


Enquiries should be addressed to Rhona Rodger (rh...@mcs.st-and.ac.uk 
).

[ECOLOG-L] Two workshops on the Analysis of Capture-Recapture Data held in St Andrews, Scotland

[Eric Rexstad]

Workshop 1: Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop - 6-7th

September 2010
Workshop 2: Bayesian Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop - 
8-10th September 2010


Further details:

Workshop 1: *Analysis of Capture-Recapture Data Workshop* - Instructors: 
Professor Byron Morgan and Dr Rachel McCrea
This workshop will cover the essentials of statistical methods for the 
analysis of capture-recapture data. Methods of classical inference based 
on likelihood construction and maximisation will be used throughout. The 
workshop will include both introductory and advanced material, including 
current research. The workshop will be led by Professor Byron Morgan and 
Dr Rachel McCrea both based at the University of Kent in Canterbury. 
They are in the process of writing a book "Analysis of Capture-Recapture 
Data" which will form the basis of the workshop. One extensive 
application, on cormorants, /Phalacrocorax carbo/, will be used to 
integrate different aspects of the work. Additional data sets will be 
provided for individual experimentation. The four computer practical 
sessions will use programs and packages written in the free language R 
as well as code for symbolic algebra package Maple. Talks will be 
accompanied by copies of talk slides, and memory sticks will be provided 
which will contain more detailed notes, computer programs and data sets, 
as well as the talk slides. Participants are encouraged to bring their 
own data sets for discussion and analysis. By the end of the workshop, 
participants will have the confidence and ability to fit a wide range of 
capture-recapture models, for use in ecology and other areas of 
application. The workshop will form the basis for the subsequent 
workshop on /Bayesian analysis for Population Ecology/.


Earlybird registration for workshop 1 (before 10th August) will be £360 
(and £290 for students).


Workshop 2: *Bayesian Analysis of Capture-recapture Data Workshop* - 
Instructors: Dr Ruth King, Prof Byron Morgan and Dr Olivier Gimenez


Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population 
ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the 
underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational 
algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology, with particular 
focus on mark-recapture-recovery data. The workshop will begin with an 
introduction to Bayesian methods and the Markov chain Monte Carlo 
algorithm before considering more advanced topics, including, for 
example, random effects models, state-space models, dealing with missing 
data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities and model 
averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. 
Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated using a range of 
ecological capture-recapture examples. The workshop will make use of 
(and provide) the recently published book "Bayesian Analysis for 
Population Ecology" by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The workshop 
will combine lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using 
and adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers in both 
WinBUGS and R. In addition to the book, particpants will also receive a 
memeory stick containing the talk slides, datasets analysed and all the 
WinBUGS and R codes used in the workshop. No prior knowledge of Bayesian 
methods will be assumed, however, we will assume that delegates will 
either have attended the “Analysis of Capture-recapture Data” workshop 
immediately prior to this workshop or have knowledge or experience of 
capture-recapture data and the Cormack-Jolly-Seber (CJS) model. Workshop 
participants will acquire new statistical tools for answering important 
questions relevant to the conservation and management of wild animal 
populations.


Earlybird registration for workshop 2 (before 10th August) will be £540 
(and £430 for students).


For further information, including a complete draft schedule for each 
workshop, registration information and contact details, see 
http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/workshops.aspx and associated links.


Enquiries should be addressed to Rhona Rodger (rh...@mcs.st-and.ac.uk 
).

[ECOLOG-L] Early registration deadline looming, International Statistical Ecology Conference Kent UK

[Eric Rexstad]

Early registration deadline for the International Statistical Ecology 
Conference is March 31.  This conference has seven eminent invited 
speakers, a set of four workshops taking place prior to the conference, 
and more than 120 contributed talks and posters.  Conference will be 
held in Kent 6-9 July 2010, with pre-conference workshops taking place 
beginning from 30 June.


Please circulate the advertising poster found at 
http://www.britishandirish.tibs.org/live/ISECposter.pdf and the 
conference website (where you can view titles and abstracts) can be 
found at http://www.ncse.org.uk/isec2010


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

Re: [ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, August/September 2010, University of St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2010 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The 
aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods 
for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and 
point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the 
field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (24-27 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as described in 
the standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (30 August - 1 September) will 
include advanced treatment of: incorporating covariates in detection 
function modelling, analyses in which detectability on the transect line 
is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem), automated 
survey design, advanced stratified survey analysis, advanced trend 
analysis, and adaptive survey designs. The aim of this workshop is to 
bring participants up to date with the latest developments in distance 
sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those 
actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance 
sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future 
research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and 
computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.


For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptop computers.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2010/workshop_overview.html 

Re: [ECOLOG-L] AIC, data-dredging, and inappropriate stats

[Eric Rexstad]

Regarding Dr. Robertson's comment regarding the use of fit statistics 
along with information-theoretic model selection metrics. 
Recall that model selection metrics provide a relative measure among 
competing models (i.e., "is model A preferable to model B"), but they do 
not inform about whether the models (selected or not) fit the data.  It 
is plausible that the 'best' model in a candidate set produces rubbish 
predictions.  So some measure of absolute fit (distance between the data 
and the predictions made by a model) is also needed when assessing 
whether the 'best' model is also a 'good' model.


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] International Statistical Ecology Conference--abstract submission deadline 25 January 2010

[Eric Rexstad]

International Statistical Ecology Conference 6-9 July 2010 Univ. of Kent

We have a few more available slots for presentations at this 
conference.  Therefore, we have extended the abstract submission 
deadline until 25 January 2010.  Please visit our website at


http://www.ncse.org.uk/isec2010

to submit your abstract.

While at the conference website, also note the list of distinguished 
invited speakers and our offering of workshops preceding the 
conference.  If you do not wish to submit an abstract, consider 
attending the conference.  Details regarding conference cost and 
registration are also at the conference website.  The early registration 
deadline for conference attendance is 31 March.


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Abstract submission deadline International Statistical Ecology Conference coming on 13 January 2010

[Eric Rexstad]

Abstract submission *will close 13 January* for International 
Statistical Ecology Conference.  Please visit our website for details of 
the conference and other exciting developments.


http://www.ncse.org.uk/isec2010

This conference, held at University of Kent 6-9 July 2010 with this list 
of invited speakers:

- Professor Lord Robert May
- Richard Barker
- Carmen Fernandez
- Jeff Laake
- Darryl MacKenzie
- Ken Pollock
- Nigel Yoccoz

In addition to invited and contributed speaker sessions, we will also be 
hosting a series of workshops prior to the conference (29 June - 5 
July).  Our workshop offerings include:
- Modelling Patterns and Dynamics of Species Occurrence by Darryl 
MacKenzie (4 days)
- Spatially explicit capture-recapture with R by Murray Efford and David 
Borchers (2 days)

- AD Model Builder by Mark Maunder and Anders Nielsen (1 day)
- Open-population capture-recapture and stopover duration models by 
Shirley Pledger, Eleni Matechou and Murray Efford (1 day)

These workshops have special pricing for conference participants.

The important dates for the conference are:
- Abstract submission deadline 13 January 2010
- Notification of acceptance 17 February 2010
- Applications for bursaries (developing countries) 1 March 2010
- Early (reduced-cost) registration deadline 31 March 2010

Please visit the website to view details of the conference, speakers, 
abstract submission guidelines, excursions, and workshops.  To submit an 
abstract, you will need to register on the website to use the abstract 
submission feature.  Note that if you were a participant in our 2008 
conference, you will *not* need to register a second time for the 
website (as our system will remember your username and password).  
However, if you cannot remember your username and password, you will 
need to register for another username.


We are excited about the upcoming conference and workshop and hope to 
see you in Canterbury in July.


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Abstract submission now open for International Statistical Ecology Conference; University of Kent July 2010

[Eric Rexstad]

Abstract submission now open for International Statistical Ecology 
Conference.   Please visit our website for details of the conference and 
other exciting developments.


http://www.ncse.org.uk/isec2010

This conference, held at University of Kent 6-9 July 2010 with this list 
of invited speakers:

- Professor Lord Robert May
- Richard Barker
- Carmen Fernandez
- Jeff Laake
- Darryl MacKenzie
- Ken Pollock
- Nigel Yoccoz

In addition to invited and contributed speaker sessions, we will also be 
hosting a series of workshops prior to the conference (29 June - 5 
July).  Our workshop offerings include:
- Modelling Patterns and Dynamics of Species Occurrence by Darryl 
MacKenzie (4 days)
- Spatially explicit capture-recapture with R by Murray Efford and David 
Borchers (2 days)

- AD Model Builder by Mark Maunder and Anders Nielsen (1 day)
- Open-population capture-recapture and stopover duration models by 
Shirley Pledger, Eleni Matechou and Murray Efford (1 day)

These workshops have special pricing for conference participants.

The important dates for the conference are:
- Abstract submission deadline 13 January 2010
- Notification of acceptance 17 February 2010
- Applications for bursaries (developing countries) 1 March 2010
- Early (reduced-cost) registration deadline 31 March 2010

Please visit the website to view details of the conference, speakers, 
abstract submission guidelines, excursions, and workshops.  To submit an 
abstract, you will need to register on the website to use the abstract 
submission feature.  Note that if you were a participant in our 2008 
conference, you will *not* need to register a second time for the 
website (as our system will remember your username and password).  
However, if you cannot remember your username and password, you will 
need to register for another username.


We are excited about the upcoming conference and workshop and hope to 
see you in Canterbury in July.

[ECOLOG-L] Bayesian analysis in population ecology workshop, early registration deadline 10 August 2009

[Eric Rexstad]

The following workshop is being run from 7-10th September at the 
University of St Andrews, Scotland.  Early registration is next Monday 
10 August.


   WORKSHOP

  BAYESIAN ANALYSIS for POPULATION ECOLOGY

A Workshop on Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology will be held in 
the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM), University of St Andrews, from 7th-10th September 2009.


OVERVIEW

Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population 
ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the 
underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational 
algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology. No prior 
knowledge of Bayesian methods will be assumed. We will begin with an 
introduction to Bayesian methods before considering more advanced 
topics, including, for example, random effects models, dealing with 
missing data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities 
and model averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo 
algorithm. Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated through 
a range of ecological examples. The workshop will make use of (and 
provide) the forthcoming book "Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology" 
by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The freely available computer 
packages WinBUGS and R will be demonstrated and used, making use of 
programs written by the course organisers. The workshop will combine 
both lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using and 
adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers.


The target audience for the workshop is statistical ecologists who wish 
to learn about Bayesian methods and/or apply these methods to their 
problems of interest. We anticipate that this may include a number of 
research students. Workshop participants will acquire new statistical 
tools for answering important questions relevant to the conservation and 
management of wild animal populations.


INSTRUCTORS

Dr Ruth King (St. Andrews)
Professor Byron Morgan (Kent)
Dr Olivier Gimenez (CNRS France)

Further information (including registration details etc) can be found at:

http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/workshops/Bayesian/Bayesianoverview.html

Note that places are limited on the workshop and will be filled on a 
first-come, first-served basis.


ENQUIRIES

For further information, please contact:
Rhona Rodger
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St Andrews
The Observatory, Buchanan Gardens
St. Andrews
Scotland KY16 9LZ
Tel:+44 1334 461842
Fax: +44 1334 461800
Email: rh...@mcs.st-and.ac.uk

--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Workshop - Bayesian analysis for population ecology - September 2009 - Univ. of St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

The following workshop is being run from 7-10th September at the 
University of St Andrews, Scotland.


WORKSHOP

   BAYESIAN ANALYSIS for POPULATION ECOLOGY

A Workshop on Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology will be held in 
the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM), University of St Andrews, from 7th-10th September 2009.


OVERVIEW

Bayesian methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population 
ecology. In this workshop participants will be given instruction on the 
underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and computational 
algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology. No prior 
knowledge of Bayesian methods will be assumed. We will begin with an 
introduction to Bayesian methods before considering more advanced 
topics, including, for example, random effects models, dealing with 
missing data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities 
and model averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo 
algorithm. Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated through 
a range of ecological examples. The workshop will make use of (and 
provide) the forthcoming book "Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology" 
by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The freely available computer 
packages WinBUGS and R will be demonstrated and used, making use of 
programs written by the course organisers. The workshop will combine 
both lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using and 
adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers.


The target audience for the workshop is statistical ecologists who wish 
to learn about Bayesian methods and/or apply these methods to their 
problems of interest. We anticipate that this may include a number of 
research students. Workshop participants will acquire new statistical 
tools for answering important questions relevant to the conservation and 
management of wild animal populations.


INSTRUCTORS

Dr Ruth King (St. Andrews)
Professor Byron Morgan (Kent)
Dr Olivier Gimenez (CNRS France)

Further information (including registration details etc) can be found at:

http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/workshops/Bayesian/Bayesianoverview.html

Note that places are limited on the workshop and will be filled on a 
first-come, first-served basis.


ENQUIRIES

For further information, please contact:
Rhona Rodger
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St Andrews
The Observatory, Buchanan Gardens
St. Andrews
Scotland KY16 9LZ
Tel:+44 1334 461842
Fax: +44 1334 461800
Email: rh...@mcs.st-and.ac.uk

--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Introductory distance sampling workshop, La Jolla CA 12-15 July 2009--registration deadline 1 June!!

[Eric Rexstad]

Staff from the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling, Univ. of St. Andrews will deliver this workshop hosted by the
Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO) this summer (12-15 July). The 
workshop instructors will be Drs. David Borchers, Len Thomas, and Tiago 
Marques. Over 3.5 days, we will focus on distance sampling methods, as 
described in the standard reference book Introduction to Distance 
Sampling (book will be provided). The workshop will be a blend of theory 
and practice and participants will learn how to use the program Distance.


Registration and payment deadline is 1 June; so to hold a place, please 
register soon for the remaining places at website 
(http://www.cetus.ucsd.edu/Distance.html). This site also contains 
information on accommodation (campus housing at UCSD as well as other 
negotiated rates) along with information on the location and other details.


Those interested in the application of passive acoustics in abundance 
estimation may also attend a SIO symposium the following day 
(http://www.cetus.ucsd.edu/Density.html).


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Program MARK workshop, University of St. Andrews, 3-7 August 2009

[Eric Rexstad]

The 'Program MARK workshop' will be held in our purpose-built facilities 
at the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM), University of St Andrews, from 3rd to 7th August 2009. 
Instructors will be Dr. Gary White, author of MARK, assisted by Paul 
Doherty from Colorado State University and staff from CREEM.


This introductory-level workshop will provide research biologists and 
graduate students with the basic background to understand the 
main-stream analyses performed by Program MARK 
<http://welcome.warnercnr.colostate.edu/%7Egwhite/mark/mark.htm> and the 
familiarity with the program to perform these analyses.  A mixture of 
lectures and laboratory exercises will be provided.  Participants will 
learn the basics of parameter estimation with likelihood theory, model 
selection with Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC), and the binomial 
and multinomial distributions.  The Cormack-Jolly-Seber (CJS) 
mark-recapture, band (tag or ring) recovery, known fate, and closed 
captures models will be covered in detail.  More advanced models will be 
described so that participants will understand the benefits of these 
models, but those models would not be covered extensively.  Use of 
covariates, including individual covariates, will be covered with the 
closed capture models.


Further details and registration forms at 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/workshops/MARK/MARKoverview.html


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Introductory distance sampling workshop , La Jolla CA 12-15 July 2009

[Eric Rexstad]

Staff from the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental 
Modelling, Univ. of St. Andrews will deliver this workshop hosted by the 
Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO) this coming summer (12-15 
July).  The workshop instructors will be Drs. David Borchers, Len 
Thomas, and Tiago Marques. Over 3.5 days, we will focus on distance 
sampling methods, as described in the standard reference book 
Introduction to Distance Sampling (book will be provided). The workshop 
will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will learn how 
to use the program Distance.


Space is limited to 40 places and we expect this workshop to fill more 
quickly than did last year's North America workshop, so if you are 
interested, please visit the website 
(http://www.cetus.ucsd.edu/Distance.html) and register soon.  This site 
also contains information on accommodation (campus housing at UCSD as 
well as other negotiated rates) along with information on the location 
and other details.


Those interested in the application of passive acoustics in abundance 
estimation may also attend a SIO symposium the following day 
(http://www.cetus.ucsd.edu/Density.html).


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Species occupancy/occurrence workshop 9-12 June 2009, University of St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

Darryl MacKenzie will deliver his four-day workshop on species 
occupancy/occurrence estimation at the Centre for Research into 
Ecological and Environmental Modelling this summer at the University of 
St. Andrews.


The presence or absence of a species across a set of landscape units is 
a fundamental concept used widely in ecology (e.g., as a monitoring 
metric, species range or distribution, habitat modelling, resource 
selection probability functions, metapopulation studies, biodiversity 
and species co-occurrence). An important sampling issue, however, is 
that a species may not always be detected when present at a landscape 
unit. This will result in "false absences" causing parameter estimates 
to be biased if unaccounted for, possibly leading to misleading results 
and conclusions, even with moderate levels of imperfect detection.


This workshop will cover many of the latest methods for modelling 
patterns and dynamics of species occurrence in a landscape while 
accounting for the imperfect detection of the species. Participants will 
be introduced to available software through worked examples, and there 
will be special emphasis on aspects of study design. While primarily 
aimed at the beginner and intermediate level, more experienced 
researchers will also benefit from attending.


In this 4-day workshop we shall cover,

* estimating and modelling occupancy at a single point in time

* estimating and modelling changes in occupancy over time

* using occupancy-type metrics in multi-species and community studies

* key aspects to designing an efficient occupancy study

* available computer software with worked examples

Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptop computers.


Further details plus registration information is available at
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/occupancy09.html

--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, August 2009, University of St. Andrews

[Eric Rexstad]

 The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2009 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The 
aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods 
for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and 
point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the 
field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (18-21 August) will run at an introductory level, and 
will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as described in 
the standard reference book / Introduction to Distance Sampling./ The 
workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will 
learn how to use the program /Distance./ Participants will gain a solid 
grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance 
sampling surveys.


The advanced distance sampling workshop (24-28 August) will include 
advanced treatment of: incorporating covariates in detection function 
modelling, analyses in which detectability on the transect line is not 
assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem), automated survey 
design, advanced stratified survey analysis, advanced trend analysis, 
and adaptive survey designs.


New for 2009, we are adding two days to the workshop to discuss density 
surface modelling; a model-based inference procedure that provides 
estimates of abundance using predictor variables that may influence 
where animals a located within the study region. Density surface 
modelling will be performed using a new version of Distance (Distance 
6). The aim of this workshop is to bring participants up to date with 
the latest developments in distance sampling methods and software. It is 
also an opportunity for those actively engaged in the design, analysis 
and execution of distance sampling surveys to discuss common issues and 
problems, and set future research directions. The workshop will be a 
combination of lectures and computer sessions, with considerable time 
for discussion.


For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data 
sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 
Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptop computers.


Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/workshop_overview2009.html


--
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833
The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532

[ECOLOG-L] Statistical modelling workshop (with impact assessment case studies) Univ. of St. Andrews, 20-23 January 2009

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting a *Statistical Modelling* workshop 20-23 January 2009 
in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, 
Scotland.   The aim of this workshop is to train participants in 
regression modelling methods, including Generalised Linear Models (GLMs). 

The 4-day workshop is set at an introductory level, and will cover the 
basics of statistical modelling including:


·parameter estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, 
/t/-tests, ANOVA


·linear models, generalized least squares models (to fit models 
which allow non-independence and/or non-constant error variance)


·Generalised Linear Models for presence/absence data or 
proportions: model specification, selection, diagnostics, interpretation


·GLMs for count data: model specification, selection, 
diagnostics, interpretation


·Overdispersed GLM models will also be covered.


The workshop will be taught using a marine mammal case study and 
workshop practicals will be based on an impact assessment example. 
Participants will learn to use the R software package, and no previous 
experience is necessary.


Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached 
to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their 
own laptop computers.


For further information or registration, please contact Dr. Monique 
Mackenzie ([EMAIL PROTECTED] 
) or Rhona Rodger 
([EMAIL PROTECTED] ).

[ECOLOG-L] International Statistical Ecology Conference, early registration deadline 30 April

[Eric Rexstad]

There is less than 3 weeks until our early registration deadline. Our 
exciting list of internationally-known invited speakers is Ken Burnham, 
Anne Chao, James Clark, Jim Nichols, Shirley Pledger, Roger Pradel, and 
Carl Schwarz.   We have 16 contributed papers sessions in the areas of 
mark-recapture methods, distance sampling methods, other abundance 
estimation techniques, monitoring of biodiversity, survey design and 
analysis for estimating population trends, modelling of spatial trends 
in animal density, integrated population modelling, stochastic 
population dynamics modelling, stochastic multispecies modelling, and 
stochastic modelling of animal movement.


The conference will be held in St. Andrews, 9-11 July 2008, just prior 
to the International Biometrics Congress in Dublin. Early registration 
deadline 30 April 2008. Please visit our website 
http://www.creem.st-and.ac.uk/isec2008 to learn additional details 
relating to registration fees, accommodation, and travel.


You can also view the schedule of >100 talks and 50 posters at 
http://www.creem.st-and.ac.uk/ocs/public/conferences/1/schedConfs/1/program.html 



We have no more room for presenters, but there are still a few vacancies 
remaining for those who would like to attend this interesting and 
noteworthy conference. However, registration costs will increase on 1 May.

[ECOLOG-L] Distance sampling workshops, St. Andrews Scotland, August 2008

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops 19-27 August 2008 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.   
The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest 
methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including 
line and point transects.  The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.


The first workshop (3.5 days 19-22 Aug.) will run at an introductory 
level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as 
described in the standard reference book Introduction to Distance 
Sampling.  The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and 
participants will learn how to use the program Distance.  Participants 
will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of 
analysis for distance sampling surveys.


The second workshop (3 days 25-27 Aug.) will cover recent advances in 
distance sampling research and software, as described in the book 
Advanced Distance Sampling. It is intended for those already familiar 
with conventional distance sampling methods (e.g., those who have 
attended an introductory workshop).  Participants will learn the use of 
covariates for modelling the detection function, double-platform methods 
for when detection at the line or point is not certain, automated survey 
design and adaptive sampling.  Participants will also learn the more 
advanced features of Distance.


For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own 
data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their 
data.  Participants intending to model their own data in the third 
workshop will be required to have it formatted according to precise 
specifications prior to arrival at St. Andrews.  Computer sessions take 
place in our modern computer classroom (attached to the seminar room); 
participants can use our computers or bring their own laptop computers.


For further information, please consult our website 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/workshop_overview.html

Abstract submission deadline 18 January 2008, International Statistical Ecology Conference

[Eric Rexstad]

Deadline for abstracts for this conference is next Friday, 18 January.  
Please register on our conference website, 
http://www.creem.st-and.ac.uk/isec2008 see the list of invited speakers, 
conference themes, and submit an abstract.

The conference will be held in St. Andrews, 9-11 July 2008, just prior 
to the International Biometrics Congress in Dublin.  Additional details 
relating to registration fees, accommodation, and travel can also be 
found on this website.

Call for abstracts, International Statistical Ecology Conference, St. Andrews Scotland 9-11 July 2008

[Eric Rexstad]

Call for abstracts, International Statistical Ecology Conference, St. 
Andrews Scotland 9-11 July 2008

Abstracts are now being accepted for this conference, jointly sponsored 
by the National Centre for Statistical Ecology and the University of St. 
Andrews.  Our exciting list of internationally-known invited speakers is 
Ken Burnham, Anne Chao, James Clark, Jim Nichols, Shirley Pledger, Roger 
Pradel, and Carl Schwarz.  We will have contributed papers sessions for 
which we invite abstracts in the areas of mark-recapture methods, 
distance sampling methods, other abundance estimation techniques, 
monitoring of biodiversity, survey design and analysis for estimating 
population trends, modelling of spatial trends in animal density, 
integrated population modelling, stochastic population dynamics 
modelling, stochastic multispecies modelling, and stochastic modelling 
of animal movement.

The conference will be held in St. Andrews, 9-11 July 2008, just prior 
to the International Biometrics Congress in Dublin. Important dates for 
the International Statistical Ecology Conference are 18 January 2008 
(abstract deadline), and early registration deadline 30 April 2008.  
Please visit our website http://www.creem.st-and.ac.uk/isec2008 to learn 
additional details relating to registration fees, accommodation, and 
travel. Also use this website to submit your abstract.

Distance sampling workshops, St. Andrews Scotland, August 2007

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting three linked workshops 15-25 August 2007 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.   
The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest 
methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including 
line and point transects.  The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.

The first workshop (3.5 days 15-18 Aug.) will run at an introductory 
level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as 
described in the standard reference book Introduction to Distance 
Sampling.  The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and 
participants will learn how to use the program Distance.  Participants 
will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of 
analysis for distance sampling surveys.

The second workshop (3 days 20-22 Aug.) will cover recent advances in 
distance sampling research and software, as described in the book 
Advanced Distance Sampling. It is intended for those already familiar 
with conventional distance sampling methods (e.g., those who have 
attended an introductory workshop).  Participants will learn the use of 
covariates for modelling the detection function, double-platform methods 
for when detection at the line or point is not certain, automated survey 
design and adaptive sampling.  Participants will also learn the more 
advanced features of Distance.

The third workshop (2.5 days 23-25 Aug.) will focus on methods of 
predicting abundance or density of biological data using the "count" 
method of Hedley and Buckland (2004, Chapter 4 of the Advanced Distance 
Sampling book). In these situations variation in animal 
density/abundance is modelled as functions of covariates such as land 
cover type, bathymetry, altitude or depth, or other characteristics 
collected during a distance sampling survey. General additive models 
(GAMs) or general linear models (GLMs) will be fitted to estimated 
densities along transects using a new analytical engine inside program 
Distance. This is an advanced workshop for those already familiar with 
distance sampling.

For all three workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own 
data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their 
data.  Participants intending to model their own data in the third 
workshop will be required to have it formatted according to precise 
specifications prior to arrival at St. Andrews.  Computer sessions take 
place in our modern computer classroom (attached to the seminar room); 
participants can use our computers or bring their own laptop computers.

For further information, please consult our website 
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/index2007.html

-- 
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833

Distance sampling workshops St. Andrews Scotland August 2006

[Eric Rexstad]

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling 
(CREEM) is hosting three linked workshops in the summer of 2006 in our 
purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.   
The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest 
methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including 
line and point transects.  The workshops are taught by leading 
researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.

The first workshop (3 days, 23-25 August) will run at an introductory 
level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as 
described in the standard reference book Introduction to Distance 
Sampling.  The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and 
participants will learn how to use the program Distance.  Participants 
will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of 
analysis for distance sampling surveys.

The second workshop (2.5 days, 28-30 August) will cover recent advances 
in distance sampling research and software, as described in the book 
Advanced Distance Sampling. It is intended for those already familiar 
with conventional distance sampling methods (e.g., those who have 
attended an introductory workshop).  Participants will learn the use of 
covariates for modelling the detection function, double-platform methods 
for when detection at the line or point is not certain, automated survey 
design and adaptive sampling.  Participants will also learn the more 
advanced features of Distance.

The third workshop (2.5 days, 30 Aug.-1 Sept.) will focus on methods of 
predicting abundance or density of biological data using the "count" 
method of Hedley and Buckland (2004, Chapter 4 of the Advanced Distance 
Sampling book). In these situations variation in animal 
density/abundance is modelled as functions of covariates such as land 
cover type, bathymetry, altitude or depth, or other characteristics 
collected during a distance sampling survey. General additive models 
(GAMs) or general linear models (GLMs) will be fitted to estimated 
densities along transects using a new analytical engine inside program 
Distance. This is an advanced workshop for those already familiar with 
distance sampling.

For all three workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own 
data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their 
data.  Participants intending to model their own data in the third 
workshop will be required to have it formatted according to precise 
specifications prior to arrival at St. Andrews.  Computer sessions take 
place in our modern PC-classroom (attached to the seminar room); 
participants can use our computers or bring their own PC laptops.

Further details, including registration forms and tariff, are available 
at http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/.

-- 
Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833