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More than 200 scientists, government managers, students, members
of environmental organizations, and concerned citizens are expected
to meet on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at the University of Windsor’s
C.A.W. Centre for the 4th biennial, binational State
of the Strait Conference. The theme of this year’s
conference is “Ecological Benefits of Habitat Modification”. Twelve speakers from the U.S. and Canada will highlight numerous
efforts to rehabilitate and restore habitat in the Detroit River and western Lake Erie. These
projects include building fish spawning reefs, softening shoreline, restoring wetlands, and
rehabilitating wildlife habitats. Presentations will focus on the ecological responses of habitat
modification across a diverse range of habitat types and will provide knowledge and lessons for
future habitat rehabilitation, restoration, and enhancement projects throughout the region. “We need clear scientific information on what is known and
unknown about the ecological benefits of habitat modification,” explains Dr. John Hartig,
International Wildlife Refuge Manager and conference co‐chair. “This information is
necessary in order to support an ecosystem approach to management and to provide compelling
rationale for further restoration of the Detroit River and western Lake Erie.” Almost 97% of the coastal wetland habitat has been destroyed due
to centuries of industrial, urban, and agricultural development in the region. “The loss
of fish and wildlife habitat is still a key environmental issue for the Detroit River Area of Concern,”
says Natalie Green, Remedial Action Plan Coordinator for the Detroit River Canadian Cleanup. “These
habitat projects are instrumental in restoring impaired beneficial uses under the U.S.‐Canada
Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.” Previous State of the Strait Conferences have explored the status of key environmental indicators for the Detroit River and western Lake Erie, monitoring
for sound management, and strengthening science‐management linkages. Registration is free but anyone interested in attending the State
of the Strait Conference
is asked to register by April 14, 2009. To register for the conference, visit www.stateofthestrait.org
or contact Ellen Green at 519‐253‐3000
x4760. |