We, at the American Fisheries Society (AFS), have actively sought the most appropriate way for us to support the needs of those colleagues and natural resources in recovery from the storm. After much discussion with leadership from various units within the AFS we have identified the following as ways we can support our colleagues in Puerto Rico. While AFS recognizes natural disasters of this scope can cause significant trauma and loss, we believe it is important to also address the professional need that is included in that loss. Professional need is fundamental to addressing human need during times of disaster as livelihood capacity is critical to restoring order and generating outreach in communities. We understand other professional needs of our Puerto Rico colleagues that we may not have anticipated following the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria will exist. We also understand a significant portion of the people in Puerto Rico will be without power and adequate water supplies for months to come (click here for more information about how to also assist with these critical relief efforts). The Southern Division of the AFS (SDAFS) will hold its Spring 2018 meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This meeting will be co-hosted by the Puerto Rico Chapter—one of AFS newest—for a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, foster collegiality, and also be a part of the rebuilding of this fisheries community.
We'd like to thank the Florida Chapter, the Southern Division, and the Wisconsin Chapter for their generous donations of $1,000 each!
Help us assist our Puerto Rican colleagues in attending this meeting. AFS has set the goal of funding at least 15 professionals to receive travel grants to attend the meeting in San Juan. The funds will be available to those fisheries colleagues in Puerto Rico that demonstrate (to the PR Chapter leadership) that they have suffered personal financial loss from the hurricane. For those who will receive travel assistance, we plan to cover:
We are optimistic for this opportunity to help strengthen and rebuild the community of fisheries professionals and students in Puerto Rico at a time when it’s still growing, but threatened by financial crisis and natural disaster. AFS recognizes that many of our members may have been impacted by unprecedented natural disasters in various regions of the United States. It is our intention to let our members know that AFS is here for you. Provided below is contact information for the following Chapter leadership .
If you are experiencing need as a result of a natural disaster, please contact: Puerto Rico Chapter, President: Gus Engman Texas Chapter, President: Randy Rushin Florida Chapter, President: Jeff Hill Georgia Chapter, President: Peter Sakaris Louisiana Chapter, President: Chris Green California-Nevada Chapter, President: Laurie Earley We understand this list may not reflect the needs of all, if you feel we have left off an area of need in error contact kdunn@fisheries.org. We thank you for your generosity in supporting a need within the AFS community.
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