Southern Sierra Science Symposium planned for Visalia

The purpose of the Southern Sierra Science Symposium is to explain and design the research science agenda for the future in the southern Sierras according to the partnership agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU states, "The parties to this agreement recognize and agree to collaboratively develop a program of research, resources management, and public education to help mitigate the impacts from and adapt to climate change effects on ecosystems of the southern Sierra Nevada."

Sidebar: Local High Schools Attending - Redwood High School Class and Sequoia Middle School

Students from the Redwood and Mount Whitney High Schools in Visalia will attend the first day of the symposium as part of an interdisciplinary advanced placement environmental science class that includes guest speakers and field trips as part of the curriculum. The 12 to 20 participating students will receive conference packets and attend scientists' presentations. They will then develop a semester-long research agenda that parallels the plan scientists attending the symposium will draft. "The symposium can serve as a springboard for part of our curriculum," said Redwood High School Teacher Paul Olson. "It will be interesting to gain students' perspective and see what they would like the research to entail."

Sequoia Middle School in Porterville will also be attending. Instructor Marti Phipps will be escorting numerous students.

Who should attend: Academia, community members interested in the future of the Sierra Nevada, students studying environmental science, non-profit organizations and federal agencies.

What you will receive: Symposium manual with lectures.
Tuition: Free
Media: Press interested in attending should call Mary Chislock, Public Affairs Officer at 559-784.1500 x1112 to reserve a seat.
Website: For more information about the Southern Sierra Science Symposium you can visit: www.fs.fed.us/psw/southernsierrascience.
Accessibility: Anyone needing special accommodations (auxiliary aids or services) please contact Mary Chislock, Public Affairs Officer at (559) 784.1500 x1112.