Synthesizing Ecology and Evolution for the Study of Invasive Species


19-Mar-2009 - 22-Mar-2009

Organizers: Carol Lee, Kristina Schierenbeck, Robert Holt

We have organized a workshop to promote the integration of ecological and evolutionary perspectives and approaches into the study of invasive species. Our aim is to create a venue in which discussion among the participants would lead to novel synthetic research and papers that
reflect the novel syntheses. For example, the integration of population genetics and population dynamics could yield insights into the lag period of invasions, evolutionary responses to novel environments, and range
expansions, oscillations, and extinctions. Also, integrating empirical data on ecological factors, such as predation or competition, with
genetic factors, such as quantitative genetic variance or the genomic architecture of critical traits, could enhance our understanding of
factors that limit invasions, improve the efficacy of predictive models, including those that might aid in biological control. Invasive species provide an ideal testing ground for many basic evolutionary theories, and we hope that this workshop will help expand this potential.

Conference attendancewill be limited to 100, so we recommend registering early!

The workshop will take place during prime ski season at the scenic Granlibakken Conference Center & Lodge, which is nestled between trees,
mountains, and Squaw and Alpine Ski Resorts. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport provides ready access to Lake Tahoe, and from a number of major airports.

The all-inclusive meeting package of $799.00 (single-occupancy) or $608.00 (double occupancy) includes conference registration fees; three
nights lodging (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday), dinner on Thursday, three meals on Friday and Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.
Day passes to the conference (conference attendance + lunch) are available at $120 per day or $252 for the entire conference.

We recommend that you plan on arriving a few days early or a stay a few days later if you plan to take advantage of the local skiing, showshoeing, ice-skating, and hiking opportunities. On site amenities include ski
lessons and on-site cross country ski trails.


The registration deadline is February 15.
You may register at http://www.granlibakken.com
. The user name and password are: usda09

If you would like to present a poster, please submit a title to Kristina Schierenbeck (ka.schierenbeck@ars.usda.gov) by March 10.