Southeast Regional Diamondback Terrapin Workshop

[NCangler]

February 27, 2008, 8:30am – 2:30pm

Charleston, South Carolina

The ACE Basin, Sapelo Island, North Inlet/Winyah Bay and North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserves, in partnership with the SE Diamondback Terrapin Working Group, are pleased to announce a one-day workshop on February 27, 2008 highlighting the status of diamondback terrapin research, management and education in the Southeast. The meeting will serve to update attendees on the accomplishments and specific needs of the region, as well as facilitate networking within and between states in the Southeast.

Presentation topics include:

· Population research and causes for decline;

· Crab trap clean-up, by-catch reduction device (BRD) research with fishermen, BRD education programs;

· Efforts to reduce terrapin mortality; and

· Impacts of mercury on terrapin health.

The workshop will also provide time for break-out discussions by state to determine next steps for that state’s research, management and education.

The workshop will take place at the Doubletree Guest Suites in Charleston, SC, located at 181 Church Street. Rooms have been held at the government per diem rate of $137 for the night of February 26th and can be booked by calling 843-577-2644. The South Carolina Aquarium has also arranged for meeting participants to get an entrance discount and behind the scenes tour on the 26th for those interested.

Please register at Coastal Training Program - Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve for the workshop and the pre-meeting Aquarium tour. Attendees are welcome to display posters, please indicate this on the registration form. Contact Suzanne at Suzanne_Vanparreren@dnr.state.ga.us or 912-485-2251 regarding registration or Rebekah at SzivakR@dnr.sc.gov or 843-953-9024 regarding room reservations.