Re: Paleo21 Meeting

From
Date
Norm, and members of the Paleo21 Conference,

The future of paleontology must include the increased role of the
avocational paleontologist.  Partnering societies, such as the Northwest
Paleontological Association, bring together the academic strengths of the
professional community with the unbridled enthusiasm of the avocational
paleontologists to further the science in a significant way.

The amateur (avocational) paleontologist can offer the science significant
opportunities if properly trained and integrated into the scientific
process.  I respectfully request that the Paleo21 conference seriously
examine the expanded role of non-professionals.

One of the primary roles of the NPA is education.  We are in the process of
developing programs for K-12 students and the general public and would be
most interested in any developments that arise from the Paleo21 conference.

Sincerely,

Michael




Michael Sternberg, President
Northwest Paleontological Association
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