2010 CONFERENCE PURPOSE & THEME

On February 11-12, 2010, the Wisconsin Wetlands Association will hold its 15th annual WWA wetland science conference in Eau Claire, WI. The theme of the conference will be Wetlands in Service and will convene members of the regional wetland community to discuss the latest in wetland science, management and protection issues as they relate to the ecological services wetlands provide. The program for this 2-day conference will include a keynote address, topical oral sessions, a poster session, working groups, a banquet and wetland field trips. Following more than a decade-long tradition, it is anticipated that this year’s conference will contribute to a growing regional collaboration for protecting and conserving Wisconsin’s wetlands.

Historically, wetlands have not been recognized or valued as natural treasures, but were instead generally considered wastelands and obstacles to progress. Today, thankfully, wetlands are beginning to be recognized and valued not only for their importance for wildlife but also for the variety of other ecosystem services they provide to human communities. From clean water to fish and wildlife habitat, flood and shoreline protection to groundwater recharge, floral diversity to aesthetics, recreation and educational opportunities, wetlands provide a variety of critical services that benefit all communities.

WWA's 2010 conference will be held at the Plaza Hotel & Suites in Eau Claire, WI. Located in the rolling hills and river valleys of Western Wisconsin, the Eau Claire area offers natural beauty, outdoor recreation, a rich heritage and unique attractions and activities. Click here to learn more about the Eau Claire area.

> Click here for registration and accommodations information.
> Click here for the program booklet with abstracts (PDF, ~3 MB).

WHO SHOULD ATTEND
WWA invites wetland experts and enthusiasts from around the Midwest region and beyond to join us for our 2010 conference. Our audience typically includes:

Scientists from colleges and universities Federal and state agency scientists Federal and state agency regulators Local government officials Tribal staff Natural resource managers (public and private) Private consultants Graduate and undergraduate students in the natural sciences Staff of local, statewide and regional non-profit conservation groups Volunteer leaders of non-profit conservation groups Wetland enthusiasts and concerned citizens Members of the media

CONFERENCE LOGO
This artistic representation of our 2010 theme, Wetlands in Service, is the work of WWA member Birgit Bach. Birgit is a talented local artist who supports Wisconsin Wetlands Association in many ways. To learn about the artist, visit her webpage at www.underthesunarts.com.

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