Document: ROB-3-85-1

A global survey of tropical biological field stations.

WHITESELL, S.*, R.J.LILIEHOLM and T.L.SHARIK

Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-5215 USA ¹

Abstract:
Biological field stations (BFS) are typically remote sites supporting basic and applied research on natural, unmanaged ecosystems. BFS range from tent camps to state-of-the-art facilities, and may support biological, physical and social research, as well as educational activities. The important role that BFS serve in discovery, integration and training places them at the forefront of efforts to understand and protect the world's significant ecosystems. This is particularly true for the tropics, estimated to contain half the world's species. To determine the status and trends of BFS, a postal survey was sent to all known stations in the Tropics. The survey requested information on: 1) General station characteristics; 2) research and training activities; and 3) finances. Use of Dillman's Total Design Method resulted in a 60% response rate (66 stations in 33 countries). The survey found that BFS offer a wide range of facilities and services, and support research, education and training for a myriad of scientific disciplines. BFS also provide access to diverse ecosystems that are often listed under formal protection status. Stations cited many challenges, including financial limitations. Indeed, nearly half of BFS budgets were undependable from year-to-year and had to be self-generated. Moreover, 25% of field stations reported that significant local ecosystems were unstudied due to inadequate funding. Enhancing the effectiveness of BFS requires efforts to raise awareness within the scientific community and among policy analysts. The creation and support of a global association of BFS would represent an important first step in meeting this challenge.

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This abstract is being presented at: 8:45 AM in session:
Oral Session #24: Ecological Learning Activities.