When: Tuesday, May 25 - Thursday, May 27 Press conference: Mid afternoon (TBA,), Thursday, May 27
Where: University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) Wood Center Ballroom
Notes: Scientists and resource managers from the eight circumpolar nations* will gather at UAF to begin broad-based environmental planning for the conservation of arctic flora and fauna, their diversity, and their habitats; and for protection of these resources from pollution threats described in the Arctic Protection Stategy. Participants include representatives of indigenous peoples and the environmental community. Emphasis will be placed on anecosystem approach to maintain biodiversity. Among objectives for the three-day meeting:
-- Develop a list of key indicator species (plants and animals).
-- Identify gaps in arctic habitat protection.
-- Develop a conservation strategy for seabirds.
-- Devise a plan for integrating traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples into a conservation strategy for the Arctic.
Working Sessions are not open to the public; however, arrangements for coverage by interested members of the press can be made by contacting the following:
Anchorage -- Bruce Batten/Connie Barclay, (USFWS) 786-3309
Fairbanks -- Debra Damron, (UAF) 474-7581
Meeting Host: United States (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, lead agency) Co-Host: Alaska Department of Fish and Game
*The circumpolar nations are: Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, United States
-FWS-
