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| Issue 384 | MARCH 2012 |
IN THIS ISSUE
Meet the Candidates
Bylaws Revisions
President’s Podium
TWS Celebrates its 75th Anniversary
Policy News
International Wildlife Management Congress
Annual Conference
News from Headquarters
News from Subunits
Related Wildlife News
Meetings of Interest
MEET THE CANDIDATES
The Wildlife Society announces candidates for positions on TWS Council. Electronic ballots will be sent in May to all members with an email address. If you do not have an email address you will receive a ballot in the mail. Newly elected members of TWS Council will be installed at the 19th Annual Conference, October 15, in Portland, Oregon. Candidate statements are provided below. Additional information, including education, TWS activities, and other professional affilliations, is also available for each candidate. Below are the candidates' biographies.
Vice President
Rick Baydack
Commitment – a word that means so much, has extensive implications for personal growth, and frames an individual’s perspective on the important things in their life. Commitment means participating actively, all of the time, for the principles to which a person adheres. I am very proud to indicate to you that I chose to make my professional commitment more than 25 years ago to The Wildlife Society – the professional organization for wildlife biologists and managers. I was encouraged immediately upon entry to my PhD program at Colorado State University by Dale Hein and Clait Braun to join TWS, and I have never looked back. In fact the advice that I received – You need to join a professional organization in your area of interest or you will become obsolete in 6 months – continues to be passed along to my students each year and is found in the concluding chapter of my recent textbook, Visualizing the Environment. That commitment has strengthened over the years as I was honored in 2007 to be elected to The Wildlife Society Council – clearly the highlight of my professional wildlife career. And now I stand before you humbled and doubly honored to be considered deserving as a nominee for your Vice President.
If elected, I ensure you that my commitment to TWS will continue to grow, will focus on doing a good job – always, will pay attention to the Professional and Ethical Standards of our Profession, will consider the perspectives of all members in TWS decision-making, and will provide leadership by example in key areas such as Policy and Government Affairs, Publications, Annual Conferences, Membership, and Finance. I also feel that we need to confirm that our connections are strong with agency biologists through AFWA, to students through innovative academic partnerships, and to diversity interests through events such as the hugely successful Women of Wildlife reception at our recent Annual Conference. In short, I will actively participate to ensure that The Wildlife Society remains the primary source for Excellence in Wildlife Stewardship Through Science and Education.
And I cannot help but consider the inspiring words of Aldo Leopold as I look forward to possibly serving as your Vice President, "There are some who can live without wild things and some who cannot – I am very proud to be one who cannot, and will work hard to enable The Wildlife Society to lead the way in maintaining those wild things that each of us cherish so dearly."
Bruce C. Thompson
TWS is a diverse organization with strong infrastructure throughout North America. Members represent a wide array of employment and employers, among which we have opportunities to continue recent successes in cultivating prospective members. We are facing especially challenging and continuing economic conditions and heavy demands to remain current with rapidly changing information that affects local, regional, national, and international natural resource policy decisions. It is critical that we provide effective policy engagement with important conservation partners, ensure strategic program implementation, feature strong and attentive member services, promote substantive exchange of pure and applied science through TWS publications, communicate effectively to and among members, incorporate the Canadian section broadly in TWS business, and ensure strong oversight of TWS finances and staffing. I will focus on implementing and promoting joint actions on issues and professional development that directly benefit members. Further, there are additional options to explore in engaging our cadre of TWS Fellows and award recipients to be effective ambassadors for TWS and to aid in strengthening our program development. I recognize the importance of being in the forefront of conservation leadership and necessary adaptation to changes within TWS and among our partners. I have worked professionally with TWS members and partners throughout North America, have been section representative and chapter President, have worked in editorial and committee positions at all levels of TWS, and have worked among many resource employers and programs represented by TWS members. Thus, I know TWS and its evolving needs. That mix of experience and ability allows me to effectively understand and communicate member interests and develop productive exchange as a TWS leader.
Canadian Section
James Allen
The Wildlife Society plays an important role in the management of wildlife resources around the world, with particular relevancy to North American situations. The facilitation and distribution of peer reviewed science and opinion pieces provides information and practical tools for wildlife managers to use as they develop and facilitate science based solutions to wildlife and habitat management challenges. The Wildlife Society develops effective policy statements on sensitive and emotional issues that cross political boundaries and provides managers with science based direction. The importance of this is the common voice provided that managers can use as a basis to deliver programs. As modern communications can easily mobilize single point of view activists and spread misinformation it is important that professional wildlife managers and researchers use the same tools to further wildlife science and management of natural resources.
Arthur R. Rodgers
TWS is the preeminent organization for wildlife professionals in North America and Canadians have long participated and contributed to TWS affairs. In just 5 years, the Canadian Section has more than doubled in membership and new Provincial and Student Chapters have popped up across the country. With the formation of a Canadian Section, we have an official “voice at the table” and an opportunity to influence both TWS decisions and policy from our unique Canadian perspective. And, by all accounts, TWS Council is listening. Canadians have been appointed to numerous TWS Committees, including Certification and Awards, and are contributing to several TWS Technical Reviews. Canadians are contributing to TWS publications as Associate Editors and Editorial Advisory Board members. Many TWS Working Groups have benefited from the contributions of their Canadian members. The importance of Canadians to TWS has recently been recognized by awarding the 2015 TWS Annual Conference to the Manitoba Chapter, to be held in Winnipeg. Thus, I see the role of the Canadian Section Representative as more than just representing the views of Canadian Section members at TWS Council meetings but also to ensure the continued participation of Canadians in all aspects of TWS affairs. With incoming President of TWS, Canadian Winni Kessler, there is tremendous opportunity to further ensure our Canadian “voice” is heard. I am deeply honoured and excited to have been nominated and, whether elected or not, I intend to contribute as much as I can to the future of TWS and the Canadian Section.
Southeastern Section
Diane Roth Eggeman
I believe that one of wildlife management’s biggest challenges is to maintain relevance to society. We as professionals and policy makers must begin to view our efforts more within the context of how decisions affect the public’s current ability to experience, value, and use the wildlife that belongs to the public, because that will generate the necessary support for conserving viable populations for future generations. I encourage my staff to pursue the following areas of professional growth and leadership development: improving decision processes for wildlife management (structured decision making, adaptive resource management), incorporating more accountability and transparency in wildlife management decisions, and implementing collaborative processes in governance using human dimensions science and stakeholder involvement.
Darren A. Miller
The Wildlife Society has grown tremendously during the past few years as evidenced by record membership, increased member services, expanded policy engagement, and improved program delivery. I strongly believe TWS must address conservation issues by adhering to and promoting science-based decision-making, remaining mindful of our core values, recognizing the key role of existing partnerships, developing new partnerships, and continually providing tools and services to our members. I have been actively engaged in TWS at all levels of the organization and therefore bring with me a broad perspective on how to serve our membership. Additionally, I have worked in the research, policy, and applied management arenas with a diverse constituency of natural resource professionals across state and federal agencies, universities, and non-governmental organizations. Over the past three years, I have gained valuable experience serving on Council as the Southeastern Section Representative. This experience will further enable me to address Section member needs and concerns, and members at large, at the parent organization level. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to represent our Section and the many dedicated conservationists within the southeastern U.S. I fully recognize the value of every TWS member and understand that, as a volunteer-based organization, we are only as strong as our membership. As your Section Representative, it will be my top priority to address your needs so that we, as a professional society, can continue to prosper and grow, provide new and relevant membership services, and be your voice in wildlife conservation.
Southwest Section
Carol Chambers
It has been such a pleasure serving as the Southwest Section Representative to Council these past 2-1/2 years that I am seeking re-election. I have learned a lot and enjoyed meeting and working with many members in the Southwest at meetings in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. For those of you who don’t know me, I have been involved in The Wildlife Society for the past 20 years in a number of roles. My goals for serving as SW Section Rep were to increase communication among members of the Section and build student involvement. Here are some of the things I have accomplished: established the first Southwest Section newsletter (initial goal 2 per year; mailed the first in April and second in December and also found the first official editor to take over its management), developed a ListServ for quick messaging to members, created a Facebook page to reach more students (The Wildlife Society Southwest Section Chapters Hub), encouraged diversity within TWS by initiating a Women of Wildlife mixer at the national TWS meeting (the event was a great success), supported SW Section sponsorship of a special session on wildlife and fire for the upcoming Southwest Fire Ecology Conference, helped develop a list of wildlifers in Mexico for outreach from our national TWS office, and I am serving on the organizing committee for the upcoming 4th International Wildlife Management Congress in South Africa (July 2012). I would be honored to continue representing SW Section members at Council with the fantastic support from our Section elected representatives. We have a lot of good going on here!
James (Jim) Ramakka
It is an honor to be asked to be a candidate for Southwest Section Representative. I live in New Mexico and more than half of my career has been spent in the Southwest. Over the last 40 years TWS Chapter and Section meetings, newsletters, and activities have played a major role in acquainting me with local issues and introducing me to the key wildlife players in each state or region where I have worked. Twenty-five years ago, discussions of impacts of livestock grazing and forest management practices dominated the annual joint meetings of the New Mexico and Arizona Chapters of TWS. Today you can add to those issues concerns over oil and gas leasing, wind and solar energy projects, climate change, fire management, invasive species, diseases such as white nose syndrome and West Nile virus, and many other topics. Issues like these are not going to go away and are not confined to individual states. The TWS State Chapters and Southwest Section have worked to highlight cross border issues to TWS as a whole. As a professional society we need to look beyond our own borders and continue to support efforts to involve our Mexican and Latin American colleagues in TWS. The Southwest Section provides a key function in strengthening communication between the existing strong TWS State Chapters as bringing students into the professional fold. Selma Glasscock and Carol Chambers have done great job of laying the foundation for a more effective Southwest Section. If elected I would try to continue the great work already begun by these two great leaders.
Members will be asked to vote on several revisions to the TWS Bylaws. An explanation of the proposed changes is included here.
Article IV, Section 3, Clause G and Article IV, Section 3, Clause H
A sentence will be added to these clauses that would allow for a Chapter or Working group to be dissolved if Council finds the Chapter or the Working Group is not meeting reporting standards as established in the Chapter’s bylaws and/or the Chapter fails to file required IRS reports, as determined by TWS staff, for 3 consecutive years.
Article V, Section 1, Clause C
A sentence will be added to this clause that would establish the Vice President as Parliamentarian during meetings of the full Council.
Article IV, Section 3, Clause A, Number 3
A paragraph would be added to this clause that would require new student chapters to successfully complete a 3-year probationary period before becoming an official student chapter. During this time, the student chapter will be required to (a) successfully complete all annual requirements on time; (b) Annually update a “checklist” of required activities as developed by TWS Staff; (c) Submit an annual report of chapter accomplishments and future plans; and (d) Require at least one TWS-affiliated guest speaker each year during the 3 year period, preferably a CWB or AWB. All Student Chapters must reapply for student chapter status every 3 years but existing Chapters that reapply will not be considered new Chapters.
The Wildlife Society's Publications: Lifeblood of Our Work
By Paul R. Krausman
In a recent editorial in the Wildlife Society Bulletin (WSB), Michael Hutchins and I wrote, “Knowledge is power, and wildlife professionals need to be informed about all aspects of wildlife biology, the habitats wildlife depend on, and how humans impact and interact with wildlife.” The Wildlife Society (TWS) contributes to this effort through its books and peer-reviewed journals—The Journal of Wildlife Management (JWM), Wildlife Monographs, and WSB. “Being unfamiliar with these publications,” we wrote, “places wildlife professionals at a distinct disadvantage when addressing contemporary issues in wildlife management and conservation.”
Our peer-reviewed journals are not the only TWS publications that contribute to wildlife policy, conservation, and management. Other publications include The Wildlife Professional (TWP), Wildlife Policy News, The Wildlifer, position statements, technical reviews, and fact sheets. In addition to previously published TWS books, the 7th edition of the Wildlife Techniques Manual has just been released, two other text books are in press, and we have several volumes in production for our new TWS-Johns Hopkins University Press wildlife book series. All of these materials help increase the knowledge about wildlife conservation and management, and help TWS members and others advance the cause.
The Society’s publications are the lifeblood of TWS because they represent the science behind our conservation and management policies and actions. Through our publications, we reach out to professionals; undergraduates striving for a career in wildlife; graduate students who live and breathe research; university, government, NGO, and private researchers; associate editors, editors, and referees; and of course TWS members and other wildlife practitioners. Our whole purpose is to get information out to those who can use it.
To that end, TWS is exploring how we might potentially achieve wider distribution of our publications. For example, TWP (a benefit of membership) and WSB (available by subscription) are only available to TWS members. We are considering whether to make more articles in TWP open-access.
This is tricky. We do not want to dilute our member benefits, and we cannot afford to produce our publications at a financial loss to the Society. Publishing costs are high and getting higher, and subscription revenue and author page charges help to cover those costs. In addition, publishers of peer-reviewed scholarly journals are commercial enterprises that have to make a profit, and sometimes that precludes the objective of making information available at a low cost.
The Wildlife Society is fortunate to be working on these issues with publisher Wiley-Blackwell. A leader in peer-reviewed scholarly publishing, Wiley is well aware of the issues we face, and they’re working to enhance our publications, set reasonable subscription rates, and strategically promote TWS journals with libraries, institutions, and agencies. The quality of our journals speaks for itself: In 2010, the impact factor for JWM rose by 14 percent, and Wildlife Monographs ranked as the top publication of 145 in the zoology subject area.
Some publishers have such a strong demand for profit that scientists are boycotting them to push for lower individual and institutional subscription rates and for widespread, easily-accessible distribution of their work. This may be part of what motivates many to turn to PLoS ONE, paying a flat fee to publish material quickly and open access.
Unfortunately, there are some who think that TWS’ subscription rates are too high and therefore do not receive our publications. This has always been questionable to me: if wildlifers do not keep up with the scientific literature, how do they expect to advance in their careers and do their jobs as well as possible? In my opinion, one of the best messages students can receive before graduation from a university is that it’s necessary to keep up with the wildlife literature—a message I’ve always given my students.
Obtaining scientific information from Wikipedia, tweets, cyberspace, television, and newspapers may be expedient and occasionally useful but will certainly not advance one’s career or the ability to practice sustainable wildlife and habitat conservation. As an educator, this has been a growing concern of mine because getting students to read for classes has become more and more of a challenge. If they are not reading the literature in college, it is unlikely they will change their behavior when employed.
So, our challenge is twofold: getting wildlifers to read the literature and making it widely available and affordable. We are improving our efforts in making the literature available, such as launching TWP in 2007, bringing back WSB in 2011, reducing page charges for Wildlife Monographs, and publishing more TWS books. More work is ongoing. But all of you—from students and professors to practicing wildlifers—also need to do your part by supporting and reading the literature and related materials. That is the only way we will progress and be aware of the scientific advancements being made in our world.
TWS CELEBRATES ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY
As part of our 75th Anniversary celebration, each issue of the Wildlifer will feature articles on the history of the Society. In this issue, John F. Organ, Chair, TWS History Committee, discusses the status of TWS in the post World War II years when first TWS President Bennitt pondered whether wildlife management constituted a profession.
The Wildlife Society After Ten Years
“Adolescence is a new birth, for the higher traits are now born,” G. Stanley Hall.
The Wildlife Society was on the verge of adolescence in 1946. The birth of the Society in 1937 was crowded with notable events. It was surrounded by milestones in the history of conservation such as the Duck Stamp Act, the formation of Cooperative Wildlife Research Units, the passage of the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act, and the first North American Wildlife Conferences, where TWS was conceived. WWII had interrupted the growth of TWS, as it had impacted every facet of American society, but now the War was over, and wildlife men who served overseas were back and looking for work. The Journal of Wildlife Management (TWP) was flush with articles reporting on investigations as to effects on wildlife from exposure to a chemical first synthesized in Germany in 1874, but put into wide use during the War – DDT.
The tenth annual meeting of The Wildlife Society was held in New York City on March 11 in conjunction with the North American. Ira Gabrielson, the director of the Biological Survey and Fish and Wildlife Service, W. L. McAtee, the first editor of JWM, Aldo Leopold, and Ernest Thompson Seton were awarded Honorary Memberships. Robert M. Rutherford, reporting for the Committee on Employment, noted that the bulk of the employment in wildlife was in connection with Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration projects.
A number of resolutions were put forth at the meeting. Members were encouraged to hold their regional meetings in conjunction with other scientific organizations, particularly with state wildlife agencies and the Society of American Foresters. A Canadian region of TWS was approved, which would eventually fade away and become reinstated as a Section in 2007 – an event I was proud to prevail over as TWS president. The Employment Committee, whose chair interestingly enough was Albert Day, the first Pittman-Robertson Federal Aid Chief, was directed to undertake a survey of the wildlife field and catalogue jobs, salaries and grades, and the various types of positions. TWS was, in effect, doing what every child on the verge of adolescence does – develop a greater sense of self awareness.
Rudolf Bennitt had as good a perspective as anyone in looking back on those first 10 years. Bennitt was TWS’s first president, although Ralph (Terry) King served as president of the Society of Wildlife Specialists, formed in 1936 and renamed The Wildlife Society in 1937. Bennitt was born and raised in the rich agricultural soils of the Connecticut River Valley of western Massachusetts in the town of Springfield. He was educated at Harvard University, culminating in a Ph.D. in Zoology. He taught at Woods Hole, DePauw University, and Tufts College before joining the faculty at the University of Missouri in 1927. When the Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit was created at Missouri, he became its first Chairman (now Leader).
Bennitt wrote in the 1946 volume of JWM about status and needs of professional wildlife training. He explained that college level field biology had been focused on immediate needs, particularly the lack of scientific information on wildlife. He rued that the quality of professional training had not risen to the level of that in some other fields. He suggested that The Wildlife Society could be the body that sets standards for university training. Bennitt made the argument for what would eventually become the Certified Wildlife Biologist program.
Bennitt made observations on aspects of the profession that we remain challenged with today. He said “wildlife conservation rests upon an inequitable financial base because, of all its beneficiaries, only the harvesters of wildlife contribute largely to its support.” Workshops held at the recent 2010, 2011, and 2012 North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conferences focused on this very same issue. Bennitt also pondered whether in 1946 wildlife management constituted a profession. He thought it did, and he reflected on what a profession is. He said, “A profession is an occupation involving special mental and other attainments or special disciplines.” He also acknowledged there had been little time for a professional philosophy to mature.
One can wonder how Bennitt would perceive the profession today. He likely would be disappointed at the continued inequalities in funding, where the user-pay user-benefit model prevails at the state level – or what TWS member Gary Kania of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation terms the “user-pay public benefit” system of American conservation funding. He likely would be pleased to see that TWS is indeed the body that establishes standards for university training and certifies wildlife biologists. He would look at the position statements, technical reviews, textbooks, and the body of science and policy that TWS has published in its entirety as significant progress for a young discipline to make towards a mature professional philosophy. Membership in TWS was 941 in 1946. It is more than an order of magnitude greater 65 years later, and growing. Ten years is not a long time, but reflecting back over that period allowed Bennitt to form a vision. Our challenge is to look forward, armored with wisdom from the successes and failures of the past, and carve a vision for what TWS and the wildlife profession must be to ensure our wildlife heritage will endure. Seventy-five years of history can be a powerful force when harnessed.
Historical Photos Needed
Do you have a historical photograph that shows an aspect of TWS history and its members? If so, please share it with us. We are compiling photographs and mementos for future publication in TWS journals and for use at the 2012 TWS Annual Conference. Please send any material you would like to share to Yanin Walker at yanin@wildlife.org.
- Conservation Organizations Urge Congress to Move Farm Bill
- Groups Request Oil Spill Funds for Gulf
- TWS Seeks Support for Conservation Title of Farm Bill
- Senate Support Requested for Recreational Fishing and Hunting Bill
- Comments Submitted on Draft Wildlife Health Plan
- Virginia Legislature Urged to Oppose TNR
- Invasive Species Coalition Asks for Injurious Snake Listing
- TWS Supports National Climate Adaptation Strategy
- Comments Submitted on Endangered Species Act Definitions
- Position Statement Open for Member Comment
- Take Action
Conservation Organizations Urge Congress to Move Farm Bill
On February 10, TWS, along with more than 80 other conservation and agriculture-related organizations, sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging the swift passage of a new, comprehensive Farm Bill within the year. There have been calls for an extension of the current law which expires on September 30. The organizations emphasized in the letter that the 2012 Farm Bill is among the most important pieces of legislation that Congress will consider this year and a temporary extension of the current policy will create tremendous uncertainty for agriculture and natural resources. Additionally, the groups stated that farmers need a safety net that works more effectively, and access to tools that help them to be good stewards of our environment.
Groups Request Oil Spill Funds for Gulf
In the wake of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, it is increasingly important to dedicate Clean Water Act and other penalty revenues from future legal settlements with BP and other responsible parties to natural resource and economic restoration in the Gulf of Mexico. In a letter sent February 10, some of the country’s leading conservation and sportsmen’s organizations and trade associations, including TWS, urged President Obama to make a commitment to this effort and the future health of the Gulf of Mexico. The letter noted that with the right foresight and a targeted investment, there is potential to bolster Gulf fisheries and migratory waterfowl that depend on healthy Gulf ecosystems. Additionally, the groups contend that it is important to use these penalty funds to support keeping the recreational fisheries open and not to fund remediation projects that will lead to unnecessary fishery closures.
In alliance with 23 other natural resource organizations, TWS also wrote to Senators, asking for their support of the RESTORE the Gulf Coast States Act (S.1400), which will direct 80% of BP’s Clean Water Act fines to restore the Gulf Coast economy and the wildlife and communities who live there. On March 8, 2012 the Senate passed S. 1400. Language for the equivalent House bill is still being finalized.
TWS Seeks Support for Conservation Title of Farm Bill
On February 24, TWS and other natural resource organizations expressed support for the Conservation Title of the Farm Bill. In a letter addressed to the House of Representatives Agriculture Committee and the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, the organizations urged members to consider the vast, positive impacts that the Conservation Title has on America’s soil, water, and other natural resources and the long term productivity and economic benefits they preserve. The letter also noted the role of the Conservation Title in safeguarding our nation’s opportunities for hunting, fishing, and observing nature on privately-owned habitat such as farms, ranches and forest land.
Senate Support Requested for Recreational Fishing and Hunting Bill
On February 13, TWS and 33 other organizations submitted a letter to Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee encouraging their support of the Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage Opportunities Act (S. 2066). At the heart of the Act is the goal of preserving American outdoor traditions by allowing these recreational activities to take place on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management. The Act would establish an “open unless closed” policy to open all lands designated as “wilderness” or “primitive” for legal hunting, fishing and shooting with certain exceptions such as for national security, public safety, or resource conservation.
Comments Submitted on Draft Wildlife Health Plan
On February 21, TWS commented on the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wildlife Health Center's (NWHC) “Science Strategy: Advancing Wildlife and Ecosystem Health for the Next Decade.” The concise nature of the document was noted, along with its clear, logical goals and a strong, contemporary mission. The plan lays a broad framework for NWHC’s work over the next couple of years.
TWS recommended against implications that NWHC is the primary agency that deals with any and all wildlife health issues, and instead suggested that the plan presents NWHC as a facilitator and coordinator of national and international partnerships. TWS also commented that the goals, objectives, and related strategies were so ambitious that they may be perceived as vague and unachievable. In addition, the draft gives a timeline that is too ambitious with major goals set to launch and be completed in 2012; it would be prudent to allow for more time (considering the plan is only in a draft comment stage) and to note the span of the strategy in the title.
Virginia Legislature Urged to Oppose TNR
On February 27, TWS wrote to members of the Virginia House of Representatives Agriculture Subcommittee in strong opposition of SB 359, which would allow the establishment of trap-neuter-release (TNR) programs in Virginia and exempt program participants of the legal responsibilities of cat ownership. TWS is concerned about the effects of implementing TNR as the accepted method of feral cat control because of the serious harm it poses to native wildlife and potential negative effects on human health. Feral cats are non-native predators that prey on native wildlife and can be a vector for spreading diseases and parasites to human and wildlife populations. On February 8, The Virginia State Senate passed SB 359 but the measure was later rejected by the House after receiving oral and written testimony in opposition to the legislation.
Invasive Species Coalition Asks for Injurious Snake Listing
On February 27, the National Environmental Coalition on Invasive Species, of which TWS is a member, wrote to Members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on the Judiciary urging their support of H.R. 511. The bill would amend title 18 of the U.S. Code to prohibit the importation of nine species of large constrictor snakes identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) as injurious species. The FWS recently listed four of these species as injurious through a regulatory action.. Large constrictor snakes are a human safety threat as well as a threat to native species and ecosystems, including, but not limited to, federally threatened and endangered species preyed upon by these snakes when they are released or escape. The letter also encouraged the Committee on the Judiciary to reform the regulatory system for imported animals, because the U.S. is foregoing major economic, health, safety, and environmental benefits by not doing risk assessments before allowing imports of live non-native animals.
TWS Supports National Climate Adaptation Strategy
On March 5, TWS expressed support to the Office of the Science Advisor within the FWS for the agency’s National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy. This action by the federal government is a powerful step in safeguarding our nation’s natural resources in the face of changing climate. The plan has comprehensive, achievable goals that will allow natural resource managers from all scales of government and their partners to implement a multi-faceted approach to the issue of climate change. The strategy transcends all levels of government by involving 23 federal, state, and tribal entities representing wildlife, public lands, waters, and other natural resources in the drafting process.
Comments Submitted on Endangered Species Act Definitions
On March 8, TWS submitted comments to the FWS regarding the Draft Policy on Interpretation of the Phrase “Significant Portion of Its Range” in the Endangered Species Act's Definitions of “Endangered Species” and “Threatened Species.” This rule change would affect the species listing process for both the FWS and NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service. TWS specifically commented on four topics of contention within the draft document, including the exact definition of “significant”, the measure of rebuttable presumption and its relationship to “significant,” the role of historical range, and the relationship between the terms “significant portion of its range” and “distinct population segment.”
POSITION STATEMENT OPEN FOR MEMBER COMMENT
Wildlife Disease
TWS has drafted a position statement on Wildlife Disease which is open for member comment until June 1. The draft position statement outlines the important role of wildlife diseases in natural ecosystems, their potential adverse effects on populations and ecosystems, factors driving disease emergence in wildlife populations, and the implications of these diseases for human and domestic animal health.
Please view the full position statement when drafting comments. Comments inserted into a PDF are preferred. When possible, please refer to line numbers in your comments. Comments should be submitted by email to: ccarmichael@wildlife.org , or mail to:
Christine Carmichael
Government Affairs Associate
The Wildlife Society
5410 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 200
Bethesda, MD 20814
TAKE ACTION
Comment on the Revised Critical Habitat for the Northern Spotted Owl
The FWS is accepting comments on their proposed revision to designated critical habitat for the northern spotted owl. The northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) is currently listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The proposed rule would change the spatial extent of land designated as critical habitat in California, Oregon, and Washington. Public comments on the rule will be accepted until June 6, 2012 and can be submitted online or by mail to:
Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R1-ES-2011-0112
Division of Policy and Directives Management
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MS 2042-PDM
Arlington, VA 22203
INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT CONGRESS NEWS
Early Bird Registration for the International Wildlife Management Congress
Register now for the International Wildlife Management Congress. The IWMC is taking place in Durban, South Africa July 9-12. The deadline for early bird registration is March 31. Registration information. More information on discounted air travel, lodging rooms, pre and post conference safari’s, and more.
Call for Papers
The deadline for Contributed Papers and Posters for the 19th Annual Conference of The Wildlife Society is April 13. The Annual Conference is taking place October 13-18 in Portland, Oregon. Instructions on submitting an abstract for the Annual Conference.
Test Your Bequest IQ - The Answers May Surprise You
Many of us think we are knowledgeable about protecting our families through a will. Here are the most common questions we are asked. The answers may surprise you:
Do I really need a will if I don’t have a lot of money or property?
Yes! Many people assume that only those with large estates need a will. This is simply not true. Everyone over the age of 18 should have a will. Plus, even if your estate is not large enough to trigger federal estate tax, seventeen states and the District of Columbia levy estate taxes.
How much will it cost?
Fees vary in different areas of the country so ask for this information in advance. Many lawyers offer a free or low-cost initial consultation. And if you already have a will and need only a simple amendment, that can be quite inexpensive.
I created a will a few years ago. I don’t need to do anything more, do I?
The current estate tax exemption is set to expire at year's-end. It’s a good idea to review your plans in light of possible changes in the law. Changes in your life such as a birth, a death, a divorce, or a move to a new state of residence are also triggers that suggest a review of your plans is in order.
Can I support The Wildlife Society and also provide for my loved ones?
Absolutely. There are different types of bequests, for example, a specific dollar amount to TWS, that leave the bulk of your estate to loved ones and at the same time you leave a legacy for our profession. Here are some ways to make a bequest to TWS.
What should I do next?
If you have decided to include us as a beneficiary, please let us know. We would like to welcome you into the Murie Legacy Circle, our recognition society for members who have made a provision for a future gift to TWS. We also have special recognition planned for our Murie Legacy Circle members at the annual conference in Portland and we would like to include you in that celebration.
To notify us of a gift or If you’re just getting started or would like more information about the different types of legacy gifts, please contact Darryl Walter at dwalter@wildlife.org or contact him by phone at (301) 263-6000.
Attention Wildlife Students and Young Professionals: Hands-On Wildlife Techniques Workshop
The Arizona Chapter of The Wildlife Society has made some changes to their upcoming Wildlife Techniques Workshop. There was such high demand that the workshop is being changed to two 1-day workshops. This is a hands-on workshop to be held on April 14-15, 2012, at the Horseshoe Ranch, off I17 north of Phoenix, AZ. You will experience several different techniques used in the field of wildlife management. These techniques and demonstrations will be taught by the professionals who use them regularly, from the Arizona Game and Fish Department, USDA Wildlife Services, Arizona universities, and non-governmental organizations. Space is limited so you must RSVP by March 23! To reserve your spot for this practical skills learning opportunity email Holly Hicks at hhicks@azgfd.gov or call (623) 236-7499.
TWS Northeast Section Meeting
The Northeast Section will meet during the Northeast Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies Annual Conference, April 15-17, 2012, Charleston Marriott Town Center, Charleston, West Virginia. The Section Executive Committee meeting is scheduled for Sunday, April 15, 2–6 pm and the Members Meeting will be held on Monday, April 16 at 5 pm. More information.
The National Conservation Leadership Institute offers advanced leadership training to a select group of natural resource professionals identified by their nominating organizations as “high potentials.” Applications will be accepted for this extraordinary professional development experience from 1 February until 30 April 2012. More information.
Southeastern Prairie Symposium
The Southeastern Prairie Symposium: Remnants, Conservation and Working Grasslands, will be held 14–17 May 2012, at Mississippi State University. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks has partnered with Mississippi State University and Wildlife Mississippi to co-host a symposium for natural resources professionals and scientists involved in the ecology, management, and restoration of Southeastern prairie habitats. Invited speakers will bring all participants to common ground on the topics of prairie remnants, conservation, and working grasslands and submitted papers by scientists and resource professionals will be presented to inform participants on prairie restoration and enhancement advances. The symposium will conclude with a panel discussion on needs and approaches to guide future prairie restoration and enhancement efforts. More information and registration.
Human–Wildlife Interactions Call for Papers
The peer-reviewed journal Human–Wildlife Interactions (a publication of the Berryman Institute) will dedicate the fall 2012 issue to the management and ecology of brown tree snakes and other exotic reptiles and amphibians. Deadline for article submissions is May 1, 2012. Submission guidelines. For more information, contact the managing editor: hwi@aggiemail.usu.edu.
Master Of Science In Conservation Medicine Degree Program
Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine is offering a new Master of Science in Conservation Medicine degree program. The intensive 12-month program is designed to provide graduates with foundational knowledge in the various contributing fields of conservation medicine, and develop their team building, organizational and leadership skills necessary for successful implementation of real world conservation efforts. Deadline for applications is April 1. Classes start in the Fall. More information and online application. Email questions to: mcm@tufts.edu. Learn more about Tufts Center for Conservation Medicine.
1st Annual World Congress of Biodiversity 2012
Theme: Today Eco-civilization, Tomorrow Happiness. April 25-28, 2012, at the Qujiang International Conference Center, Xi’an, China. More information.
5th Biennial Northeastern Transportation and Wildlife Conference
September 9 – 12, 2012, Jordan Grand Resort Hotel & Conference Center, Newry, Maine. For details email Richard Bostwick at Richard.bostwick@maine.gov or call (207) 592-3904.
2012 Student Conclaves
Students, make plans now to attend one of the four conclaves this year.
Northeast Student Conclave: hosted by California University of Pennsylvania, April 13-15, 2012. Contact Frank Christopher at chr8090@calu.edu for more information.
Midwest Student Conclave: hosted by University of Central Missouri Student Chapter, April 14, 2012 at the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. Contact Ashley Mertz at amm18370@ucmo.edu for more information or visit the Midwest Student Conclave website.
Southeastern Student Conclave: hosted University of Tennessee, March 15-18, 2012. Contact Dave Buehler at dbuehler@utk.edu for more information.
Western Student Conclave: hosted by University of Idaho, March 9-12, 2012. Contact Cody Bear-Sutton at bear2796@vandals.uidaho.edu for more information.
Remember to check out The Wildlife Society online calendar for a full list of meetings of interest from TWS Sections, Chapters, and Workings Groups, as well as from other organizations.
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