September 17 2008

Today was a very interesting day did not know that this much could be compressed in a single day. Had a breakfast welcome meeting hosted by the President Concordia University and attended by the Executive Council and the Deans Council. Two Fulbright fellows- from China and me from India. Interestingly two countries that are in the very center of action in this age of globalisation.So much to learn about and so much to learn from.An important part of the timing of our program is that we get to see the Presidential election form close-up.

Then met Dr Dean Current from the UOM and discussed about collaborations on developing protocols for NTFP collections to ensure sustainability. This was followed by a visit to the Library and then to the Northern Forest Research station of the US Forest Service. I must mention the warm welcome from Shirley at the reception which was matched by the Asst Director Dr Tom who heads the center. I was informed about the focus areas of research- social sciences, climate change. We discussed mutual matters and the participation of US Forest Service at the Seminar at Kerala. Thereafter met with Dr Peter Cutter and discussed about his tiger research and the protocols developed.Dr Cutter promised to forward information on the Thailand Tiger Action Plan, the MIST program, the work done by him at Thailand and the cluster approach followed in those countries.

This was followed by a visit to the Raptor center met with a dedicated Dr Redig the founder of the center and discussed the various issues after which had a guided tour of the center.

Met with Bhim Gurung from the tiger research center and the proceeded to meet Dr Thomas Halbach and discussed about compost. Also met with Dr Gupta working on soils and climate.

Did a bit of driving getting used to driving on the right and adhering to the US rules.

A hectic but highly interesting and informative day.