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SCB STRIVES TO INCREASE INTERNATIONAL CAPACITY

Strategic planning for the future of the Society for Conservation Biology is an iterative and frequently challenging process. The mission of our international society--developing the scientific and technical means for the protection, maintenance, and restoration of Earth's biological diversity--is clear. But there is no obvious strategy for realizing this mission. As a society, we struggle continuously to prioritize objectives, initiatives, and activities in a manner that not only is sensitive to regional and disciplinary opportunities and constraints but also is fiscally responsible.

The formation of international sections and its influence on future SCB activities has become a major focus of our society during the past two years. SCB's Board of Governors met in Tuscon, Arizona, USA from 28-30 March to chart a course for strengthening our programs and services in order to enhance the international capacity of conservation biology. Twenty-nine members of the Board and staff, including representatives from six of our seven international sections, participated in the intense round of discussions. First, our section presidents, committee chairs, and editors presented short reports and ideas. Building on this strong foundation, working groups examined how five major SCB program areas--annual meetings, publications, education, student affairs, and policy--could be adapted to address the needs and objectives of our members around the world. Issues of equity were paramount in our debates. While we are determined to facilitate global awareness and accessibility of SCB's services and products, we do not want to neglect the critical base of members that has supported SCB throughout its 17-year history. As a board, we wrestle with balancing the location of annual meetings, the geographic emphasis of our publications, and the nature of our interactions with decision-makers.

Professional societies, like ecological systems, are dynamic. While our decisions are not made lightly, we try to be pragmatic and to maintain SCB's future options. Although the financial status of SCB over time has improved dramatically under the stewardship of Stephen Humphrey, we still have considerably more goals than funds. Are we taking effective steps? Do you have alternative suggestions? Our elections and annual members' meetings are excellent opportunities to help ensure that SCB reflects your vision. However you choose to communicate with us, the Board of Governors and Executive Office welcome your insights and feedback on expanding our global capacity to conserve biological diversity.

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