MIAMI, FL, November 3, 2008: The 15th Annual Conference of The Wildlife Society (TWS), the largest gathering of wildlife professionals on the North American continent, will run from November 8th through the 12th in Miami, Florida. Conference sessions, a trade show, working group meetings, receptions, and special events will be held at the Hyatt Regency Miami, at 400 SE 2nd Avenue.
“South Florida is one of the most ecologically exciting places in North America, with over 80 distinct ecosystems,” says TWS Southeastern Section Representative William G. Minser, III of the University of Tennessee. “The state is working to achieve sustainability while being founded on the principles of development. There are lessons here for the future of all of North America.”
Dr. Michael Hutchins, The Wildlife Society’s Executive Director/CEO, notes that the conference “provides an opportunity for wildlife management professionals and students to network and share the latest research and techniques in their rapidly evolving fields.” Highlights of the conference will include:
- A Plenary Session: “Thriving Within Limits: Toward a Scenario of Hope,” will cover current imperatives and conservation priorities, and planning proactively for the future. It will feature Jim Miller, 2007 Aldo Leopold winner; Bruce Thompson, head of the New Mexico Game and Fish Department; Joan Nassauer, Landscape Architect; and well-known Canadian conservationist Shane Mahoney.
- Panel Discussions: Topics will include “Federal Leadership in Scientific Societies: Is the End Near?” “Implementing Adaptive Management on National Wildlife Refuges,” and “An Inconvenient Statistic: Diversity in the Wildlife Profession.”
- Professional Papers: Presenters will offer more than 220 papers and 150 posters on a wide range of topics in wildlife biology, management, and conservation.
- Symposia: Attendees can choose from a variety of symposia such as “Managing Tribal Natural Resources,” “Biodiversity Management in the Department of Defense,” “Integrating Conservation with Urban Planning,” “Deer Ecology in Developed Landscapes,” “Trapping,” and many more.
A trade show and book display will accompany the event. Attendees can learn about technologies including the latest in remote sensing, wildlife capture, GIS, and software for wildlife research and management. They can also visit with representatives from conservation organizations, ecological consulting firms, and natural resource agencies. Books, field gear, wildlife jewelry, photography, and art will be available for purchase.
The Wildlife Society, founded in 1937, is a scientific and educational organization dedicated to enhancing the ability of wildlife professionals to conserve diversity, sustain productivity, and ensure the responsible use of wildlife resources for the benefit of society.
Source: The Wildlife Society
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