>I think this weekend we ALL should do ONE thing that helps the
>environment somehow. I'm not just talking going for a stroll and
>birding... something pro-active... something that is beneficial... have
>a think about it, no matter what part of the public service you're
>immersed in!!!!!!!! Then we can all feel proud and bonded.
All and sundry,
Lorne's email has touched a nerve with me, because I have been considering
this "pro-active" message in writing a small newsletter which I put out
regularly. I quote a part of it:
"We must, as community birders, look at the larger picture, and contribute
to the gathering of field information wherever and whenever we can spare
the time. There is never enough money to pay for thoroughly funded
broad-scale professional studies of environmental questions. At the same
time, community (i.e. volunteer) birders can not achieve individually what
they can achieve as an organised group. When the community and the
scientists get together on a project, there can be mutual benefit. I urge
you all to understand the high value of your birding skills, and to use
them towards a growth of understanding of our environment. "
This is a matter in which I feel strongly. Community birders often feel
powerless, that only the scientists have the real knowledge. The way I see
it, graduates come out of uni well-acquainted with methodology and
discipline, which community birders lack. On the other hand, uni students
aren't taught the individual identifications and behaviours of species, and
have to pick up that knowledge afterwards. There are plenty of
environmental science graduates working in government jobs, and who have
poor knowledge of species and behaviour. Many community birders have that
specialist knowledge. Therefore, by working together, and learning from
each other............we can make a difference. And, by God, we need to.
The environmental problems we face are monumental.
Regards,
Jill
Jill Dening
Sunshine Coast, Qld
26º 51' 152º 56'
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