. strategic framework and guidelines for the list of wetlands of international importance : the cop considered annex b on wednesday, and a contact group was established. in the contact group on friday, several parties examined criterion 1 for designating ramsar sites, and debated whether to add a new criterion on cultural values, with most opposing. on saturday, delegates suggested using the term “ near ” instead of “ most ” natural wetlands, and on monday, after lengthy debates, delegates reached compromise text regarding artificial wetlands. an integrated framework for the ramsar convention ’ s water - related guidance : on tuesday, 15 november, the secretariat introduced annexes c, ci and cii, which contain an integrated framework and guidelines for the convention ’ s water - related ecosystems. the cop adopted the annexes with minor amendments. ecological “ outcome - oriented ” indicators for assessing the implementation effectiveness of the ramsar convention : on tuesday, 15 november, the secretariat introduced annex d, containing suggested amendments following informal discussions with interested parties raised in the plenary session under agenda item ix ( report of the strp chair ). the cop adopted the annex as amended. an integrated framework for wetland inventory assessment and monitoring : on tuesday, 15 november, the secretariat introduced annexes e and ei containing a framework and guidelines for the rapid assessment of inland, coastal and marine wetland biodiversity. the cop adopted the annexes without amendment. final resolution : in this final resolution, the cop : the final text of annex a requests the strp to report to cop10 on the harmonization of definitions and terms related to ecosystem benefits / services. the definition of ecological character, including the phrase “ at a given point in time, ” underscores that the concerned party provide the ecological character of a site at the time of designation to the list. a change in ecological character of a listed site should be assessed against the baseline status presented in the ramsar information sheet ( ris ) and the time of designation for the list. “ ecological character ” is defined as the human - induced adverse alteration of any ecosystem component, process and / or ecosystem benefit / service. annex b defines wetlands using article 1. 1 of the convention, which includes artificial ones. it highlights artificial ramsar sites as having international importance for biodiversity. it notes, however, this should not justify the destruction or modification of “ near - natural ” wetlands. the annex also states that a wetland should be considered of international importance if it has a unique example of a “ near ” natural wetland type or if it regularly supports one percent of the population of


the destruction or modification of “ near - natural ” wetlands. the annex also states that a wetland should be considered of international importance if it has a unique example of a “ near ” natural wetland type or if it regularly supports one percent of the population of a wetland - dependent non - avian animal species. annex c and its appendices contain an integrated framework for the convention ’ s water - related guidance, with additional guidance on the analysis of case studies in river basin management and guidelines for the management of groundwater to maintain the ecological character of wetlands. annex d contains seven initial ecological “ outcome - oriented ” indicators for assessing the implementation effectiveness of selected aspects of the convention. the approach is outlined as part of the integrated updating of monitoring and reporting processes under the convention, including the intention to simplify the national report format for cop10. the initial indicators are : the annex also outlines indicators recommended for further consideration by the strp. annex e outlines an integrated framework for wetland inventory assessment and monitoring and guidelines for the rapid assessment of inland, coastal and marine wetland biodiversity, and were prepared by the strp and the secretariat, and developed jointly for the convention and the convention on biological diversity ( cbd ) under the cbd / ramsar third joint work plan and in response to the ramsar strategic plan 2003 - 2008 and cbd cop6 decisions vi / 5 on inland waters and vi / 6 on marine and coastal biological diversity. future implementation of scientific and technical aspects of the convention : this draft resolution ( cop9 dr2 ) was first considered in plenary on thursday, 10 november. the secretariat introduced the draft resolution, noting that the strp has identified its immediate and high priority tasks as contained in annex 1, explaining that all tasks would be consolidated with those agreed under the revised strategic plan 2003 - 2008 into the work plan for 2006 - 2008. the eu requested inclusion of inland waterways in annex 1. regarding annex 2 on a schedule of actions for scientific and technical implementation of the convention 2006 - 2011, argentina requested removing reference to the defense and military sector. delegates debated whether the task on wetlands and agriculture should be made an immediate priority. final resolution : in this final resolution ( cop9 dr2 rev. 1 ), the cop approves the immediate and high priority actions for the strp for 2006 - 2008 and the schedule of actions for scientific and technical implementation of the convention for 2006 - 2011. the cop requests the secretariat to consolidate these actions and the schedule with the annex to the revised strategic plan 2003 - 2008 to form the convention ’ s


2006 - 2008 and the schedule of actions for scientific and technical implementation of the convention for 2006 - 2011. the cop requests the secretariat to consolidate these actions and the schedule with the annex to the revised strategic plan 2003 - 2008 to form the convention ’ s work plan 2006 - 2008. the cop also urges parties, donors, intergovernmental organizations ( igos ), iops, national ngos, and others to use this programme in deciding priorities for their financial and other support towards the future scientific and technical implementation of the convention. engagement of the convention in ongoing multilateral processes dealing with water : on thursday, bridgewater introduced the draft resolution ( cop9 dr3 ), stressing that it does not seek to transform ramsar into a convention on water but rather a convention that understands its role in addressing water issues. he also noted the relevance of ramsar ’ s work to the ongoing implementation cycle on water, sanitation and human settlements under the csd, and the upcoming fourth world water forum. in the ensuing discussions, the resolution received broad support. japan cautioned against exceeding the scope of the convention. a reference to the global water partnership in the preamble was proposed, and lack of data on wetland ecosystems ’ demand for water was highlighted. the cop considered and adopted the draft resolution on tuesday with several editorial amendments and the addition of reference to “ an ecosystem approach ” in iwrm. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1721e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr3 rev. 2 ), the cop affirms that the conservation and wise use of wetlands is critical for the provision of water for people and nature, and that wetlands are a source of, and depend on, water. it calls on parties to bring ramsar ’ s water - related resolutions and guidelines to the attention of water management authorities for their integration into national iwrm plans. the resolution instructs the ramsar secretariat to cooperate with the fourth world water forum secretariat and other relevant global and regional water initiatives to ensure that wetland ecosystems goods and services are recognized as a key element for effective management of water resources while maintaining the ecosystem functioning of wetlands. it further instructs the secretariat to provide input to the csd at its session in 2008, and report thereon to cop10. conservation and sustainable use of fish resources : during informal consultations on this issue ( cop9 dr4 ) on thursday


further instructs the secretariat to provide input to the csd at its session in 2008, and report thereon to cop10. conservation and sustainable use of fish resources : during informal consultations on this issue ( cop9 dr4 ) on thursday and friday, several parties requested amendments to references concerning ecologically damaging fishing gear and practices. some delegates highlighted the lack of accurate data on fisheries in wetland ecosystems and others urged greater assistance of iops in such data collection. the contact group agreed on a revised resolution, which was presented during the closing plenary on tuesday and adopted by the cop. final resolution : in this final resolution ( cop9 dr4 rev. 1 ), the cop acknowledges that “ fisheries resources ” instead of “ fish ” are a vital source of food and income and can assist in the further reduction of poverty. this term was replaced throughout the text of the resolution. it confirms that this resolution covers issues in inland, coastal, and marine wetland fisheries within the scope of article 1 and ramsar sites within the scope of articles 1 and 2. 1 of the convention. it further : synergies with other biodiversity - related processes : on friday, the secretary general introduced the draft resolution ( cop9 dr5 ). many delegates welcomed national reporting synergies, some proposing common modules and formats, and one urging synergies for indicators, data collection and information sharing. delegates debated which international processes and institutions the secretariat should collaborate with. an informal group was established to consolidate amendments. on tuesday, the secretariat outlined the amendments to the revised draft resolution, explaining that its annex had been changed to an information document ( cop9 doc. 32 ). the us stipulated harmonization of national reporting should be subject to the mandate of each individual convention, and parties agreed that the secretariat liaise with the unfccc and unccd joint liaison group. the cop adopted the resolution with these amendments. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html. final resolution : in this final resolution ( cop9 dr5 rev. 1 ), the cop requests the secretary general to : it further urges parties to develop means at the national level of improving the liaison between the convention ’ s administrative authorities and focal points for other related conventions and agreements and to report to the secretariat on progress in harmonizing information management and reporting. [ transboundary ] [ transnational ] ramsar sites : on friday, the secretariat introduced the


convention ’ s administrative authorities and focal points for other related conventions and agreements and to report to the secretariat on progress in harmonizing information management and reporting. [ transboundary ] [ transnational ] ramsar sites : on friday, the secretariat introduced the draft resolution ( cop9 dr6 ), noting that historically it has been the parties ’ prerogative to designate wetlands of international importance in their territories only. delegates could not reach consensus on use of terms “ transboundary ” versus “ transnational, ” and agreed during the plenary session on monday to further consider the issue at cop10 and, in the meantime, consult with iucn on legal, immigration and other implications of establishing transboundary sites. guidance for addressing ramsar sites or parts of sites which no longer meet the criteria for designation : this agenda item ( cop9 doc. 15 ) was introduced on friday, 11 november, with a draft resolution ( cop9 dr7 ) prepared by the secretariat. malawi called for assistance and measures to rehabilitate sites, rather than simply deleting them. on monday, delegates considered the revised draft resolution and adopted it with a reservation by india that the resolution ’ s guidance should not impinge on the sovereign rights of a contracting party. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr7 rev. 1 ), the cop adopts the guidance contained in the annex to the resolution on addressing issues of ramsar sites or parts of sites that cease to fulfill or never fulfilled the criteria for designation. the cop requests contracting parties to apply the guidance and procedures set out in the annex when contemplating the deletion of a site from the list of wetlands of international importance. the resolution urges contracting parties to provide developing countries with assistance, including capacity building, in order to help reverse the factors leading to consideration of deletion or restriction of a site. it also instructs the secretariat, with the advice of the strp, to report to cop10 on these matters, and urges parties to provide the secretariat with information on their experiences and lessons learned in their application of this resolution. regional initiatives in the framework of the ramsar convention : on wednesday, several parties highlighted the importance of regional initiatives in the implementation of the convention ( cop9 dr8 ). iran highlighted the role of the newly established central and west asia regional center. on friday, the secretariat introduced a revised draft resolution, amended with comments received from parties. several parties requested references to specific initiatives, inter alia : the plata basin initiative, the high andean initiative, the


established central and west asia regional center. on friday, the secretariat introduced a revised draft resolution, amended with comments received from parties. several parties requested references to specific initiatives, inter alia : the plata basin initiative, the high andean initiative, the nile basin initiative, and the black sea wetlands initiative. nepal requested the secretariat to further develop the himalayan initiative for cop10. on financial implications, the eu requested clarification on the purpose of funding, india called for additional financial and budgetary support, and the secretariat expressed concern over lack of resources for new initiatives, noting core budget funds could “ kick start ” some initiatives. on tuesday, the plenary adopted the resolution with several amendments. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr8 rev. 2 ), the cop endorses seven regional initiatives listed in annex i. a, and recognizes the potential of four others contained in annex i. b, which are subject to further development and consideration by cop10. it agrees to contribute financial support for seven regional initiatives listed in annex i. c in the 2006 - 2008 triennium, and authorizes the standing committee to approve intersessionally qualifying initiatives that have zero implications for the convention ’ s core budget. the resolution also renews its cooperation with the government of greece on its hosting the medwet coordination unit in athens, and adopts the budget for the operation of the medwet committee and coordination unit, as contained in annex ii of the resolution. streamlining the implementation of the strategic plan of the convention 2003 - 2008 : on thursday, the secretary general introduced the draft resolution ( cop9 dr9 ), noting it provides a basis for the secretariat and the standing committee to test a new approach in setting up priorities for the 2006 - 2008 work plan. delegates stressed targets should be realistic and recognize parties ’ abilities and limited resources. they highlighted : the need to simplify the plan for better monitoring at regional and national levels ; setting clear directions for all organizations working on wetland conservation ; new ways to develop future strategic plans ; and use of the plan as guidance for prioritizing implementation at the national level. on tuesday, the secretariat introduced the revised draft, noting the annexed framework will undergo review, editing and change during the 2006 - 2008 triennium. the eu proposed language specifying the framework is a “ working tool ” and that the standing committee will carry out the review. new zealand called for design of a simplified cop10 national reporting format harmonized with other relevant conventions and agreements. delegates debated including as a


proposed language specifying the framework is a “ working tool ” and that the standing committee will carry out the review. new zealand called for design of a simplified cop10 national reporting format harmonized with other relevant conventions and agreements. delegates debated including as a key result area assessment of the unfccc implementation on wetlands, agreeing this would be considered by the standing committee. the cop adopted the resolution with these amendments. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1721e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr9 rev. 1 ), the cop accepts the annexed framework for the implementation of the convention ’ s strategic plan 2003 - 2008 in the 2006 - 2008 period. the resolution instructs the standing committee to : develop and implement a comprehensive, inclusive process for development of the 2009 - 2014 strategic plan for cop10 ; use the framework to design a simplified cop10 national report framework, taking into account the resolution on synergies with other conventions and collaboration and harmonization of national reporting, and urges parties, the standing and strp committees, the secretariat and iops to use the 2003 - 2008 strategic plan and its appendices as a renewed challenge to promote, implement and monitor the convention ’ s performance, including through the application of “ outcome - oriented ” indicators for the convention ’ s implementation. the framework outlines the convention ’ s goals and the key result areas and key performance indicators. the role of the convention in natural disaster prevention, mitigation and adaptation : on friday, bridgewater noted the relevance of this draft resolution ( cop9 dr10 ) following the asian tsunami and recent hurricanes. proposals included : paragraphs on impacts of extreme climatic events and mobilizing resources to restore affected wetlands ; renaming the resolution to reflect the role of ramsar in mitigating impacts associated with natural phenomena ; reference to “ affected people ” instead of “ local communities and indigenous people ” ; and paragraphs emphasizing pre - disaster planning. on tuesday, delegates reviewed the revised draft resolution. wetlands international, supported by switzerland, austria, belgium, costa rica and the netherlands, proposed changing the resolution ’ s title to reflect natural phenomena induced or exacerbated by human activities. japan supported deleting a paragraph on establishing mechanisms for emergency assessment. switzerland, supported by belgium and albania, proposed reference to ecosystem “ services ” instead of “ benefits. ” suriname suggested including both services and benefits. armenia proposed a separate clause


activities. japan supported deleting a paragraph on establishing mechanisms for emergency assessment. switzerland, supported by belgium and albania, proposed reference to ecosystem “ services ” instead of “ benefits. ” suriname suggested including both services and benefits. armenia proposed a separate clause specifying the human activity of drainage as exacerbating natural phenomena. with the amendments by wetlands international, japan and armenia, the resolution was adopted. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html. final resolution : in this final resolution ( cop9 cr10 rev. 1 ), the cop recognizes the important role of ramsar in disaster avoidance and mitigation and post - disaster restoration, and the significance of synergies with other meas and agencies focusing on natural disasters. it also bears in mind the impacts on wetlands of extreme climatic events and the need for financial resources for, inter alia, prevention and early warning. use of the term and status of the “ ramsar secretariat ” : the cop considered the draft resolution concerning the use of the term “ ramsar secretariat ” ( cop9 dr11 ) in plenary on friday. many parties recognized that the resolution would harmonize terminology with similar meas. the cop considered and adopted amendments on the recognition of the ramsar convention as an igo and on reporting outcomes of consultations with appropriate bodies to the standing committee. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr11 rev. 2 ), the cop decides that in its external relations the bureau may use the descriptor “ the ramsar secretariat ” in its official statements and documents. it reaffirms that use of “ secretariat ” shall not affect the bureau ’ s functions provided for in the convention text. it further instructs the secretary general to consult with appropriate bodies regarding transformation of the status of the secretariat to an igo, while still maintaining its links with iucn and the host country. finally, it requests the secretary general to report on the outcome of these consultations at the 34th meeting of the standing committee. revised modus operandi of the scientific and technical review panel : the cop considered the draft resolution on revising the modus operandi of the strp ( cop9 dr12 ) on friday. strp chair fin


meeting of the standing committee. revised modus operandi of the scientific and technical review panel : the cop considered the draft resolution on revising the modus operandi of the strp ( cop9 dr12 ) on friday. strp chair finlayson introduced the draft resolution, which received general support, with several parties stressing stronger national focal point ’ s engagement. parties debated appointment of experts, several delegates saying nominees should not be limited to “ globally - recognized ” experts and urging equitable regional representation. one urged allowing parties to propose high priority thematic work areas and another suggested the panel identify capacity needs for the 2006 - 2008 triennium. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr12 rev. 1 ), the cop reaffirms the critical importance of the work and advice of the strp to the convention. it approves the annexed revised strp modus operandi and establishes an strp oversight committee, reporting to the standing committee and comprised of the chair and vice - chair of the standing committee, the chair and vice - chair of the strp and the secretary general and deputy secretary general. it also agrees that the standing committee will continue to have overall responsibility for strp work, with the strp chair reporting to each standing committee meeting on the panel ’ s progress and advising on adjustments to the programme. the cop further : the annexed revised modus operandi includes : the establishment and responsibilities of the strp oversight panel ; criteria and characteristics of candidate strp members and the composition of the panel ; the procedure for identification and appointment of candidates, chair and vice - chair ; rules in relation to observer organizations ; and ensuring continuing national and regional applicability and continuity of panel membership. financial and budgetary matters : delegates heard the financial report and proposed budget for the 2006 - 2008 triennium ( cop9 dr13 ) in plenary, submitted by the chair of the subgroup on finance of the standing committee and the finance committee trevor swerdfager ( canada ). on issues for the 2006 - 2008 triennium, swerdfager underscored the need to further discuss budget allocations, including the proposed four percent increase. delegates requested the budget be maintained with zero increase in the next triennium, with others noting their flexibilities. on friday, the finance committee met in the afternoon to


to further discuss budget allocations, including the proposed four percent increase. delegates requested the budget be maintained with zero increase in the next triennium, with others noting their flexibilities. on friday, the finance committee met in the afternoon to further consider the budget for 2006 - 2008. the eu proposed balancing budget lines, particularly between regional initiatives and the strp, stressing the need for more scientific and technical services to the convention. several parties expressed flexibility with a budget increase of less than four percent, and others supported an increase but opposed shifting budget lines between regional initiatives and the strp. on monday, the finance committee chair swerdfager reported to plenary on progress made in discussing financial and budgetary matters. he noted that there is a shortfall in each fiscal year ’ s budget. discussions focused on identifying reductions to balance the budget in areas, including the ramsar sites database, communication, regional initiatives and cepa operating costs. during the closing plenary on tuesday, swerdfager presented the resolution on financial and budgetary matters for adoption. he outlined the resolution as well as the newly attached annexes, noting that annex ii contains the core budget for 2006 - 2008, based on the cop agreeing to a four percent increase. argentina, with brazil, accepted the budget but requested to record their concerns over the increase in the report of the meeting. delegates agreed to remove annex iii ( annual contribution arrears ) from the draft resolution, and make it an information document for the cop. the african group supported the budget and said the reallocation of the funds would allow the strp to fulfill its tasks. one party requested reflecting in the report that strp funds allocated in the budget shall not be cut in the future. the secretary general said that elements of strp funds are combined and they do not indicate any cut. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html, http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1723e. html, http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html and http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1725e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr13 rev. 2 ), the cop approves the budget for the 2006 - 2008 triennium as attached in annex i


. ca / vol17 / enb1725e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr13 rev. 2 ), the cop approves the budget for the 2006 - 2008 triennium as attached in annex i to enable the implementation of the strategic plan of the convention. the forecast income for 2006 - 2008 represents a four percent increase per year, based on the cop9 budgeted party allocations for 2005. the total incomes for the three years are : 4, 054, 390 swiss francs for 2006 ; 4, 206, 277 swiss francs for 2007 ; and 4, 365, 094 swiss francs for 2008. the cop decides that the terms of reference for the financial administration of the convention shall be applied in toto to the 2006 - 2008 triennium. the cop also : evaluation of the ramsar endowment fund as a mechanism to resource the small grants fund : in plenary on friday delegates considered the draft resolution on evaluation of the ramsar endowment fund ( cop9 dr14 ). during plenary on monday, the secretariat introduced a revised draft resolution. highlighting funding constraints, iran, supported by israel, requested that the decision mention the asia region specifically. bridgewater said that the region ’ s concerns would be recorded in the cop9 report, and the draft resolution was adopted without amendment. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr14 rev. 1 ), the cop rescinds its decision in resolution viii. 29 to establish a ramsar endowment fund to resource the small grants fund ( sgf ), and urges the standing committee to actively pursue alternative funding mechanisms. the cop further instructs the secretary general to submit proposals to the standing committee at its 34th meeting for improving the status and resourcing of the sgf, with a focus on ensuring that dedicated sources of funding are developed, and calls on development assistance agencies and other organizations within the asia region to support the establishment of such a mechanism. the cop also requests the standing committee to bring to cop10 new proposals for establishing a more vigorous mechanism to support the sgf, including the possible development of regional support funds. wetlands and poverty reduction : on friday, the secretariat introduced the draft resolution on wetlands and poverty reduction ( cop9 dr15 ), which received strong support from parties. during the plenary on tuesday, bridgewater introduced a


development of regional support funds. wetlands and poverty reduction : on friday, the secretariat introduced the draft resolution on wetlands and poverty reduction ( cop9 dr15 ), which received strong support from parties. during the plenary on tuesday, bridgewater introduced a revised resolution. one party suggested, opposed by several developing countries, including the term “ extreme ” before poverty. ghana, sudan, nepal and indonesia supported the words “ poverty reduction ” for the title of the resolution. wetlands international, supported by the netherlands and switzerland, recommended new text concerning reviewing and improving existing finance mechanisms as well as encouraging new thinking in finance institutions for wetland management to help address poverty reduction. bridgewater suggested this term be solved in dr1 annex a, which will then set precedent for all other resolutions. the draft resolution was adopted as amended. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr15 rev. 1 ), the cop urges parties to take action to contribute to poverty reduction, especially in the following areas : human life and safety ; access to resources ; ecological sustainability ; governance ; and economics. it further urges parties to take or support action to : the cop also encourages parties to work with unep, undp, the un department of social and economic affairs, the iops, national and international ngos and others to enhance sustainable livelihoods utilizing a wise use approach towards wetlands and build capacity for communities in relation to activities designed to increase food security, diversify economies and add value to wetland products. the status of sites in the ramsar list of wetlands of international importance : on friday, bridgewater introduced this draft resolution ( cop9 dr16 ), noting a considerable increase in the quality and number of sites and highlighting a greater diversity in the types of designated wetlands. parties provided updated information concerning ramsar site designations since cop8, planned extensions to existing ramsar sites, and future designations of new or extended sites. the africa region requested the secretary general to consider options for assisting and encouraging parties in their actions in response to threatened changes in the ecological character of ramsar sites. following a proposal by wwf, supported by several parties, delegates agreed to request that greece provide information on its efforts to restore the ecological character of seven ramsar sites included in the montreux record of ramsar sites, where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur, with a view


to request that greece provide information on its efforts to restore the ecological character of seven ramsar sites included in the montreux record of ramsar sites, where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur, with a view to removing these sites from the record. on monday, the secretariat introduced various amendments to the draft resolution. delegates agreed to a suggestion by portugal to include a table on missing information from ris in the annex. a paragraph expressing concern over the number of third party reports received by the secretariat was deleted, following a suggestion by argentina. the resolution was adopted with these amendments. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1722e. html and http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr16 rev. 1 ), the cop notes an almost 20 percent increase in the number of ramsar sites since cop8, but highlights concern that updated ris are missing for 41 percent of sites. it encourages parties to report changes in the status of sites in a timely manner, including their possible inclusion in the montreux record, and requests the strp to prepare a set of measures to, inter alia, using the revised ris format. the resolution congratulates several parties for reporting on changes in ecological character and boundary issues, and recommends that parties listed in the annex do so as a matter of priority. it further instructs the secretariat to consider options for assisting and encouraging parties in their actions in response to change or likely change in ecological character of ramsar sites. international organization partners : on saturday, 12 november, parties welcomed inclusion of the international water management institute ( iwmi ) as a new iop, and encouraged extending the listing to other organizations, especially those specializing in water management. the draft resolution ( cop9 dr17 ) was adopted without amendment. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr17 ), the cop reconfirms iop status for birdlife international, iucn, wetlands international and wwf, and formally confirms iop status for the iwmi. it also encourages other organizations to consider applying for iop status and requests the standing committee to review iop performance in supporting convention implementation and to report back to the cop. review of cop decisions : the cop considered the draft resolution on the review of cop decisions ( cop


other organizations to consider applying for iop status and requests the standing committee to review iop performance in supporting convention implementation and to report back to the cop. review of cop decisions : the cop considered the draft resolution on the review of cop decisions ( cop9 dr18 ) on saturday, 12 november. on monday, a revised resolution was introduced by the secretariat. one delegate stressed the review should be restricted to cop decisions only, not to convention text, and urged terms of reference be developed and a timetable set to complete the review before cop10. another suggested strp ’ s participation in the review, while another said it should be reflected in the budget. the cop adopted the revised resolution with these amendments. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr18 rev. 1 ), the cop instructs the secretariat, the standing committee and the strp to review the decisions taken since cop1 to identify areas of conflicting advice or policy, redundancy and differing interpretation or conflict, and for the standing committee to present the review results to cop10. it also instructs the secretariat to develop terms of reference and, if appropriate, identify potential service providers for review by the standing committee at its 34th session. it further agrees that the review should focus on cop resolutions and recommendations and not on the text of the convention. cepa oversight panel : on saturday, delegates addressed the draft resolution on establishing an oversight panel for communication, education and public awareness ( cepa ) activities of the convention ( cop9 dr19 ) in plenary. iran, supported by many, proposed setting priorities on communication, education and capacity building, and adding language to the terms of reference on identifying gaps between capacity - building opportunities and needs for wetland professionals and stakeholders. canada expressed concern over budget implications. on monday, mexico requested an explicit reference to the panel reporting to the standing committee. the resolution was adopted as amended. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr19 rev. 1 ), the cop recognizes that financial restrictions have inhibited full implementation of cepa. the cop : instructs the standing committee at its 34th meeting to establish an oversight panel to monitor and report on cepa programme implementation and to set priorities for communication, education and capacity building in collaboration with the wetlands international cepa specialist group and the ramsar advisory board on capacity building, and to report to cop10 on the panel ’ s activities ; and requests the secretariat to liaise with the institut de l ’ energie et de l ’ environnement de la franco


and the ramsar advisory board on capacity building, and to report to cop10 on the panel ’ s activities ; and requests the secretariat to liaise with the institut de l ’ energie et de l ’ environnement de la francophonie in order to share all relevant information on the ramsar convention. an attached annex includes the terms of reference for the panel, which outlines its functions, composition and modus operandi. the functions state that the panel will clarify the broad role of the two national cepa focal points, identify gaps between capacity building opportunities and needs for the range of wetland stakeholders, and advise the standing committee on the form and function of the next cepa programme for 2009 - 2014. the modus operandi states that the panel will play a liaison role with other meas and operate as much as possible through electronic means, and that cepa focal point representatives should seek input from government and ngo cepa focal points. regional wetland symposia : the cop considered the draft resolution on importance of regional wetland symposia in implementing the convention ( cop9 dr20 ) in plenary on saturday. several parties advocated using the asian wetland symposia ( aws ) as a model for other regions, with others proposing the organization of subregional meetings to prepare for regional fora, with one party supporting the resolution as long as there were no financial implications. the cop adopted the revised resolution on monday morning in plenary with minor amendments. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1723e. html and http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr20 rev. 1 ) the cop encourages all contracting and non - contracting parties in the asia region to give full recognition to the effectiveness of the aws. it endorses the continuation of the periodic aws ; requests parties to facilitate participation in the aws by a wide range of stakeholders, noting that this will not have any financial implications for the core budget ; requests the secretariat and standing committee to encourage linkages between ramsar regional meetings, including subregional meetings ; and recommends that parties, international ngos, and other relevant scientific and technical organizations consider the usefulness of establishing similar periodic regional scientific and technical fora where they do not already exist. integrated, cross - biome planning and management of wetlands


dr22 ) on tuesday. however, the issue had been addressed in regional meetings and a contact group, which met throughout the cop. during contact group discussions on saturday, delegates agreed that cultural values should be considered when designating ramsar sites, while some supported the addition of a criterion on cultural values. on monday, delegates agreed to language on measures being consistent with rights and obligations under other international agreements. the cop considered and adopted the resolution on tuesday, with amendments on local communities and indigenous peoples, and relevant cultural characteristics for designation of sites, and the deletion of a complementary criterion taking into account cultural values. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1721e. html ; http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1723e. html and http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr22 rev. 2 ), the cop : ramsar sites and systems of protected areas : on saturday, nigeria introduced its proposed resolution ( cop9 dr24 ), noting it represents an example of harmonization between ramsar and cbd reporting requirements. delegates disagreed on the issue of references to the iucn protected area categories, with the us and others proposing them, and brazil opposing. an informal contact group was established on saturday, and a compromise was reached on monday evening. on tuesday, the secretariat submitted the draft resolution for adoption by the cop. the us requested, and delegates agreed to, deleting two bracketed preambular paragraphs referring to the outcomes of the vth world parks congress. the draft resolution was adopted as amended. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr24 rev. 1 ), the cop agrees to include as extra data fields in the approved ris protected area categories, if any, for the site, as established by each contracting party, and / or iucn categories ( 1994 version ), if appropriate, and any other relevant designations. it calls upon parties to integrate efforts aimed at broader protected areas system development in designating future ramsar sites, including through world heritage sites nominations and identification of biosphere reserves. it further encourages coordinating approaches with the cbd, through, inter alia, criteria for identifying wetlands of international importance, and implementing the cbd ’ s programmes of work on marine and coastal biodiversity and protected areas. managing


identification of biosphere reserves. it further encourages coordinating approaches with the cbd, through, inter alia, criteria for identifying wetlands of international importance, and implementing the cbd ’ s programmes of work on marine and coastal biodiversity and protected areas. managing wetlands and waterbirds in response to highly pathogenic avian influenza ( hpai ) : on thursday, the secretariat circulated an information text on avian flu for consultations. delegates discussed this issue in regional meetings on thursday. on saturday afternoon, the contact group, chaired by david stroud ( uk ), met to further consider a draft resolution ( cop9 dr25 ). participants agreed to add a new operative paragraph underlining the importance of developing and implementing national contingency or action plans. in deleting the paragraph on developing guidelines for landscape planning, the group added paragraphs requesting the strp to provide relevant input related to practical measures to reduce the risk of disease transmission between wild and domesticated birds to agencies developing contingency and wetland management plans and to assist in sharing information. on monday, the contact group met in the evening to consider the resolution ’ s first revision. several amendments were suggested, including : adding the word “ captive ” before the word “ birds ; ” deleting a paragraph on providing information on instances of waterbird mortality to national authorities ; and requesting a report on the secretariat and strp ’ s work with relevant agencies at cop10. during the closing plenary on tuesday afternoon, chair stroud submitted a second revision for consideration by the cop. in response to the russian federation ’ s concern about the phrase “ considerable misinformation ” regarding the risks posed by avian flu, the secretary general suggested to replace it with “ misunderstanding in some countries. ” the convention on migratory species praised the cop ’ s work on avian flu. in response to peru ’ s intervention, delegates agreed to change the title of the draft resolution to “ hpai and its consequences for wetlands and waterbirds and their management and conservation for the benefit of human well - being. ” the draft resolution was adopted as amended. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr25 rev. 2 ), the cop calls for fully integrated approaches to address avian flu, and requests the convention ’ s continued participation in the scientific task force on avian influenza. the cop also : underlines the importance of developing and implementing national contingency or action plans related to the potential risk of disease transmission, and the need for national preparedness to instances of detection of hpai in


task force on avian influenza. the cop also : underlines the importance of developing and implementing national contingency or action plans related to the potential risk of disease transmission, and the need for national preparedness to instances of detection of hpai in birds in wetlands ; requests the secretary general to explore possibilities of establishing partnerships to support the development of long - term funding for monitoring schemes ; and urges the strp, with the task force, to provide relevant input on practical measures to reduce the risk of disease transmission between wild, captive and domesticated birds, to those agencies developing contingency and wetland management plans related to avian flu. improving management of the ramsar convention : on monday, canada introduced a proposed draft resolution ( cop9 dr26 ), noting it seeks to establish a management working group to review the convention ’ s decision - making mechanisms and generate recommendations for cop10. several parties stressed the need for the group to be small - scale, self - financing and time - bound, and have equitable regional representation. delegates discussed the composition of the group and its status, as well as specific tasks assigned to it. the earth negotiations bulletin ’ s coverage of these discussions can be found at : http : / / www. iisd. ca / vol17 / enb1724e. html. final resolution : in the final resolution ( cop9 dr26 rev. 1 ), the cop establishes an ad hoc management working group to examine and review the convention ’ s various management structures and systems, and report to cop10 its recommendations on : it also identifies the composition of the management working group as follows : chairs and vice chairs of the standing committee and the strp established at cop8 and cop9 ; chairs of the subgroup on finance for cop8 and cop9 ; secretary general ex officio ; any other interested parties or iops, and an appropriate expert on organizational review, to be determined by the working group, subject to there being no implications for the convention ’ s budget. thanks to the host country : on tuesday, 15 november, delegates adopted a resolution ( cop9 dr28 ) thanking the host country. in this resolution, the cop congratulates uganda for its pioneering efforts in wetland wise use and conservation and sustainable natural resources management, draws attention to the kampala declaration, expresses gratitude to the government and people of uganda, ngos and the private sector and local staff. date and venue of cop10 on tuesday, 15 november, bridgewater introduced the agenda item on the date and venue of the next cop ( cop9


, expresses gratitude to the government and people of uganda, ngos and the private sector and local staff. date and venue of cop10 on tuesday, 15 november, bridgewater introduced the agenda item on the date and venue of the next cop ( cop9 doc. 27 ), noting the republic of korea had offered to host ramsar cop10. the republic of korea ’ s environment minister lee jaeyong and tae ho kim, governor of gyeongsangnam - do province, extended the country ’ s invitation to host cop10 in the city of changwon, gyeongsangnam - do province, in 2008. supporting the bid, japan noted currently 17 out of 43 asian countries are not signatories to the ramsar convention, representing the largest gap in the world, and that hosting cop10 in asia will offer an opportunity to further promote the convention in the region. the cop accepted republic of korea ’ s bid by acclamation. election of parties to the standing committee on monday, 14 november, the cop elected parties to the ramsar standing committee. the following countries were selected to represent ramsar ’ s six regions in the committee : samoa for oceania ; us for north america ; bahamas, el salvador and ecuador for the neotropics ; austria, czech republic, georgia and slovenia for europe ; benin, gabon, kenya and malawi for africa ; and china, iran and thailand for asia. uganda and the republic of korea will serve on the standing committee as the cop9 and cop10 host countries. ministerial dialogue : on saturday, 12 november, cop9 president otafiire chaired an informal ministerial dialogue on the sidelines of cop9, attended by ministers and high - level representatives from 19 countries. the meeting : endorsed the outcomes of csd - 13 and the 2005 - 2015 “ water for life ” decade ; focused on convention implementation ; urged support of regional initiatives ; and considered and agreed the kampala declaration. the kampala declaration : in the declaration, the ministers, inter alia, emphasize : active community participation in wetlands supporting livelihoods, calling on the private sector and civil society to promote and sustain the wise use concept ; innovative economic incentives in promoting wetland wise use and conservation ; and further research and exchange of information on avian flu in relation to wetlands. they also : undertake to address the world summit on sustainable development ’ s ( wssd ) johannesburg plan of implementation ’ s 2010 biodiversity loss goal and to strengthen the list of wetlands of international importance as a contribution to the global network of protected


wetlands. they also : undertake to address the world summit on sustainable development ’ s ( wssd ) johannesburg plan of implementation ’ s 2010 biodiversity loss goal and to strengthen the list of wetlands of international importance as a contribution to the global network of protected areas initiated at the wssd ; affirm the need for synergies between the ramsar convention and other relevant conventions ; call for cross agency and cross donor cooperation ; urge development and implementation of transboundary and cross national systems and approaches to wetland ecosystems ; and urge the secretariat and iops to liaise with development partners and multilateral organizations to identify sustainable funding mechanisms for the implementation of the convention in africa. delegates convened for the closing plenary on tuesday evening, 15 november, adopting the report of the meeting without amendment. noting cop9 was a “ children ’ s cop ” because of the presence of youth throughout the meeting, secretary general bridgewater said his expectations for the cop had been fulfilled and that he was satisfied with the meeting ’ s outcomes. he thanked the standing committee, the secretariat, the government of uganda and particularly the ministry of water, land and the environment, and finally, the delegates. iraq announced its intention to become a ramsar contracting party before cop10, and to designate the eastern part of the mesopotamian marshes as its first ramsar site. grenada said it also hopes to join the ramsar convention before cop10. romania submitted its bid to host ramsar cop11. ghana congratulated uganda on successfully hosting cop9, and encouraged other african countries to follow its lead in hosting a ramsar cop. an ngo representative urged parties to engage ngos at the national level in order to achieve the shared objective of ensuring the conservation and wise use of wetlands. an indigenous peoples representative expressed concern over low participation by indigenous peoples at cop9, highlighting their important role in conserving wetlands. he also stressed the need to ensure their full participation in law and policy making for wetlands. birdlife international, on behalf of the iops, commended the cop ’ s attention to tackling poverty, the convention ’ s governance, and rapid responses to avian flu and natural phenomena. he highlighted identified priorities for action before cop10, including iwrm, dealing with changing ecological character and outreach. he called for raising awareness about the convention at all levels to achieve a greater political impact. he said that ramsar was legitimate in the eyes of the world and that, while iops are global, they act locally as well, through distributed networks, technical programmes and civil society engagement.


convention at all levels to achieve a greater political impact. he said that ramsar was legitimate in the eyes of the world and that, while iops are global, they act locally as well, through distributed networks, technical programmes and civil society engagement. cop9 president otafiire congratulated participants on a successful cop and noted additional ramsar sites recently designated by uganda. the meeting was gaveled to a close at 7 : 20 pm. a brief analysis of cop9 “ the times they are a changin ’ ” bob dylan opening the cop with this 1960s song by bob dylan seemed fitting for a convention that has undergone a remarkable transformation in its 34 - year - long history. from a north - centric convention focused on the technical and scientific aspects of the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl, the ramsar convention has become one that actively addresses a broad range of often political issues related to conservation and wise use of wetlands throughout the world, from cultural diversity to water management to ecosystem services. cop9, the first ramsar cop held in africa, is indicative of this evolution to accommodate broader concerns such as poverty alleviation. in addition, cop9 served to underscore ramsar ’ s drive to become a more active player in the international agenda, reflected in the adopted resolutions addressing avian flu, natural disasters and water issues. this brief analysis focuses on the key theme of cop9, that of streamlining the convention, highlighting its most hotly debated issues, and looks ahead to the convention ’ s future. streamlining the convention in his opening statement, ramsar secretary general peter bridgewater referred to “ quality, not quantity, ” a theme that was echoed throughout the conference. while the convention ’ s strategic plan includes listing 2, 500 ramsar sites by the year 2010, many believe that the rush to list too many sites may take energy away from the management of already existing sites, which could result in many listed sites lacking adequate management plans, and becoming less attractive to donors. cop9 attempted to find a way to expand the number of ramsar sites without compromising their effective management. the secretariat also attempted to streamline the organization of the cop itself. cop9 was two days shorter than cop8 and adopted far fewer resolutions, 25 rather than 45. the number of resolutions at this cop was partly due to preparatory work by the secretariat to consolidate submissions by parties, but some delegates felt that the “ streamlining ” was superficial, noting that this consolidation resulted in a “ mega - resolution ” on additional scientific and technical guidance


resolutions at this cop was partly due to preparatory work by the secretariat to consolidate submissions by parties, but some delegates felt that the “ streamlining ” was superficial, noting that this consolidation resulted in a “ mega - resolution ” on additional scientific and technical guidance, which ended up consuming a great deal of time. unlike cops for other conventions, where budget issues plague debates and often stall progress, budget discussions at cop9 were relatively straightforward with no late - night negotiating sessions. for instance, currency conversion issues, which have posed problems for some other conventions, were not a problem here as contributions are paid in swiss francs. instead, the budget debate focused on how to allocate funds, with regional initiatives coming into play. the functioning of the convention is being streamlined and decentralized through regional initiatives and national focal points, which have become more prominent. ramsar has a historically small and centralized secretariat with a narrow mandate, so addressing issues at the regional level frees up some of the burdens on the secretariat and allows for more focus on specific issues and needs of different regions. the recent opening of the ramsar regional center for training and research on wetlands western and central asia shows that ramsar is mature and robust enough to incorporate this evolution and that parties are serious about decentralization. many other initiatives are formally recognized by the cop as having potential, such as the himalayan initiative and the nordic - baltic wetlands initiative, and others were proposed for future consideration. emerging issues : rising tides ramsar ’ s broadening scope has resulted in increased calls to include emerging issues on the agenda. this was particularly prominent at cop9, as demonstrated by the emergency resolution on avian flu and ramsar ’ s active involvement in the recently established scientific task force on avian influenza, under the auspices of the convention on migratory species ( cms ). one delegate pointed out that the avian flu resolution would give more prominence to ramsar ’ s bird experts who might be able to access funding to study links between migratory patterns of birds and avian flu. he suggested that while billions of dollars are being put into developing drugs to combat human strains of avian flu before it has even reached humans, much more could be done stop the flu at its source. in a gesture of support, the cms executive director robert hepworth dropped in on his way to the cms cop to be held next week in nairobi. in a year marked by tsunamis, hurricanes and droughts, a draft resolution on natural phenomena and the acknowledgement of wetlands as buffers against flooding and


adoption of this resolution, however, delegates debated the role culture should play in determining site designation. politicized issues such as trade and conflict with national interests crept into the debate on whether culture should be a separate criterion for designating a site, with a number of european delegates strongly supporting this proposal, and others advocating that ramsar is primarily an ecologically - based convention. officials from ministries of foreign affairs, who wished they had been in valencia to help stop the convention from going into “ dangerous waters ” and to “ steer the culture issue in the right direction, ” showed up in uganda, mainly to avoid the subsidization in agriculture and fisheries that they felt the culture - related protectionist measures by governments could bring about. in the end, delegates concerned with trade implications insisted on adding language on consistency with obligations under other international agreements to the resolution on culture, an implicit reference to the wto which takes into account concerns that protecting culture could have impacts on trade. navigating ramsar ’ s future before docking at cop10 cop9 proved to be less contentious than cop8, where delegates debated at length such issues as agriculture, invasive species and the report of the world commission on dams and negotiated the convention ’ s strategic plan. this time, cop9 addressed a broad range of issues that show the increased ability of ramsar to respond to broader sustainable development goals and targets. it was noted for example that, at cop9, there was less talk of waterfowl than at any other cop. ramsar ’ s contributions to achieving millennium development goal 7 on environmental sustainability, the upcoming 4th world water forum, achievement of the 2010 biodiversity target, and implementation of decisions from the thirteenth session of the commission on sustainable development on water and sanitation were recognized in the framework for implementing the strategic plan. since it is not a un convention, ramsar avoids some of the bureaucratic red tape that often bogs down other conventions, with one impressed delegate pointing out that cop9 participants refrained from “ engaging in endless dialectic ” much to the chagrin of “ contact groupies. ” this should hopefully enable the convention to continue to address broader issues and link wetland ecosystems with human well - being – an issue that will no doubt be examined in more depth at cop10. the fact that some contentious issues were not discussed or were deferred to cop10 does not mean that these issues will continue to be sidelined in the future. history shows that emerging issues may need to “ simmer, ” allowing parties to warm up to them. for instance


were not discussed or were deferred to cop10 does not mean that these issues will continue to be sidelined in the future. history shows that emerging issues may need to “ simmer, ” allowing parties to warm up to them. for instance, water issues were first addressed at cop6, but have only now gained the full attention of all delegates at cop9. one likely issue to rise again to the surface is transboundary ramsar sites, which was deferred to cop10. culture was more comprehensively addressed during this cop than at previous ones, so while progress may seem slow at times, there is no doubt that ramsar ’ s methodical and scientific approach has proven to be effective. now that a ramsar cop has been held in africa, the impetus may exist for more countries in the region to further engage in the convention. the oceania region is diving deeper into the process, and asia is gearing up to host cop10. at cop9, several developing countries announced that they will soon ratify the convention. as noted by the secretary general, there could very well be 160 ramsar contracting parties by the next cop. this not only signals the increasing importance of the convention, but also demonstrates developing countries ’ recognition of the role of wetlands, and their desire to play a more integral role in the process. with this steady growth in the number of parties and sites as well as its geographical, cultural and topical diversification, the convention ’ s transformation into a modern and mainstream sustainable development agreement seems to have “ whet ” the appetite of the parties. eighth conference of parties to the convention on migratory species ( cms ) : the eighth meeting of the conference of the parties to cms will convene from 16 - 25 november 2005, in nairobi, kenya, with the theme “ on the move to 2010. ” for more information, contact : unep / cms secretariat ; tel : + 49 - 228 - 815 - 2401 ; fax : + 49 - 228 - 815 - 2449 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / www. cms. int / bodies / cop / cop8 / cop8 _ mainpage. htm seventh gulf water conference : this meeting will be held from 19 - 23 november 2005, in kuwait city, kuwait. this conference aims to review and assess the progress made in the gulf cooperation council countries towards the adoption and implementation of comprehensive policies and strategies for integrated water resources management and their active


will be held from 19 - 23 november 2005, in kuwait city, kuwait. this conference aims to review and assess the progress made in the gulf cooperation council countries towards the adoption and implementation of comprehensive policies and strategies for integrated water resources management and their active implementation. for more information, contact : muhammad al - rashed, kuwait institute for scientific research and water sciences ; tel : + 965 - 483 - 6100 ; fax : + 965 - 483 - 4712 ; e - mail : email @ example. com ; internet : http : / / www. kisr. edu. kw / conference _ details. asp? id = 29 international workshop on practical implications of international conventions on wetland management : this workshop will take place from 21 - 23 november 2005, in venice, italy, with focus on practical implications of international conventions on wetland management. for more information, contact : dwight peck, ramsar secretariat ; tel : + 41 - 22 - 999 - 0170 ; fax : + 41 - 22 - 999 - 0169 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / ramsar. org / wn / w. n. italy _ servolo. htm xii world water congress : this conference will be held from 22 - 25 november 2005, in new delhi, india. the theme is “ water for sustainable development – towards innovative solutions. ” for more information, contact : g. n. mathur, member secretary, adhering committee of international water resources association ; tel : + 91 - 11 - 2611 - 5984 ; fax : + 91 - 11 - 2611 - 6347 ; e - mail : email @ example. com ; internet : http : / / www. worldwatercongress. org international symposium on recent advances in water resources development and management ( rawrdm - 2005 ) : this meeting will take place from 23 - 25 november 2005, in roorkee, uttaranchal, india. for more information, contact : deepak khare, indian institute of technology ; tel : + 91 - 1332 - 285393 ; fax : + 91 - 1332 - 271073 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / www. iitr. ernet. in / departments / wrt / rawdrm. pdf first international dialogue on the worldwide water crisis : this meeting will take place from 24 - 25


31 - 317 - 478850 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / www. wetlands. org / news & / newsitems / wwlworkshop _ files / second _ ann. htm sharing the fish conference 2006 : this conference will be held from 23 february - 2 march 2006, in perth, australia. this conference will focus on resource allocation and the sustainability of fisheries and will provide a neutral forum for the multi - disciplinary discussion of the elements of effective allocation of fisheries resources to ensure their sustainability. for more information, contact : conference secretariat ; tel : + 61 - 8 - 9387 - 1488 ; fax : + 61 - 8 - 9387 - 1499 ; e - mail : email @ example. com ; internet : http : / / www. fishallocation. com. au / fourth world water forum : local actions for a global challenge : the fourth world water forum will take place from 16 - 22 march 2006, in mexico city, mexico. this conference aims to raise awareness on water issues all over the world. for more information, contact : secretariat of the 4th world water forum ; tel : + 52 - 55 - 5174 - 4480 ; fax : + 52 - 55 - 5174 - 4722 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / www. worldwaterforum4. org. mx eighth conference of the parties of the convention on biological diversity : cop - 8 will take place from 20 - 31 march 2006, in curitiba, brazil. for more information, contact : the cbd secretariat ; tel : + 1 - 514 - 288 - 2220 ; fax : + 1 - 514 - 288 - 6588 ; e - mail : email @ example. com ; internet : http : / / www. biodiv. org international symposium on water and land management for sustainable irrigated agriculture : this symposium will meet from 4 - 8 april 2006, in adana, turkey. the symposium will seek to identify best management practices to harmonize the sustainable use of water for agricultural production and livelihoods with well - functioning ecosystems. for more information, contact : attila yazar, cukurova university ; tel : + 90 - 322 - 3386516 ; fax : + 90 - 322 - 3386386 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet :


attila yazar, cukurova university ; tel : + 90 - 322 - 3386516 ; fax : + 90 - 322 - 3386386 ; e - mail : firstname. lastname @ example. org ; internet : http : / / symp2006. cu. edu. tr / 22nd international commission on world dams congress : this meeting will be held from 18 - 23 june 2006, in barcelona, spain. this meeting will address : technical solutions to reduce time and costs in dam design and construction ; management of the downstream impacts of dam operation ; and flood and drought evaluation and management. for more information, contact : icold secretariat ; tel : + 34 - 93 - 4016 - 478 ; fax : + 34 - 93 - 4017 - 357 ; e - mail : email @ example. com ; internet : http : / / www. icold - barcelona2006. org tenth conference of the parties to the ramsar convention : cop10 will be held in changwon, gyeongsangnam - do province, south korea in 2008. for more information, please contact : ramsar secretariat ; tel + 41 22 999 0170 ; fax : + 41 22 999 0169 ; e - mail :


one of the basic tenets of teaching is that the student must learn the basics and foundation of a subject in order for them to master it eventually and reach full human potential. new research from the university of missouri supports this notion, revealing that kids who understood numbers and quantity in the first grade were more likely to get good grades in math when they hit fifth grade. “ this study reinforces the idea that math knowledge is incremental, and without a good foundation, a student won ’ t do well because the math gets more complex, ” said researcher david geary. “ the kids that can go back and forth easily and quickly in translating numerals, the number five, for example, into quantities and in breaking complex problems into smaller parts had a very good head start. ” the study involved 177 elementary school students from kindergarten. researchers hope to follow the group until they reach 10th grade algebra classes in an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of how kids learn, especially when it comes to math. additionally, the findings may help educators discover better methods of teaching. personal growth activities such as studying, doing homework and attending school are integral to a young person ' s development and can even set them on the right path toward a fulfilled life. philosopher, educator and trailblazer ilchi lee believes that human potential is limitless and that individuals can push the boundaries of their abilities with practice and hard work. results of this study support such thoughts, providing further proof that the brain works gradually. students may want to consider ridding their minds of distractions and negativity before engaging in study sessions or attending class in order to reap the full benefits of education.


leaf characteristics ( pk1 ) this set introduces simple vocabulary to describe the physical features of 40 north american tree, garden, and house plant leaves. first - the child sorts 9 leaf characteristics cards ( 3 " x 4 " ) onto 3 control cards ( 10 - 3 / 8 ” x 5¼ ” ) that identify characteristics of leaf types, leaf veins, and leaf margins. second - after learning the 9 characteristics of leaves, it is time to describe the 3 characteristics of just one leaf. a leaf card is selected from the 40 leaf cards provided ( 3 " x 4 " ). the child selects the 3 characteristics cards ( type, venation, margin ) that describe that leaf, and places them on the blank leaf identification card ( 10 - 3 / 8 ” x 5¼ ” ). real leaves can be used in this exercise as well. background information is included for the teacher. leaves ( pk1c ) this set consists of 40 duplicate leaf cards ( 80 cards total ). one group of 20 cards illustrates familiar leaves such as dandelion, marigold, and ivy. the second group illustrates common north american tree leaves such as oak, maple, and cottonwood. these are the same leaf cards found in in - print for children ' s “ leaf characteristics ” activity. flowers ( fl1 ) this set is designed to help children recognize and to name 20 common flowers, many of which are commercially available throughout the year. this duplicate set of picture cards can be used in simple matching exercises, or in 3 - part matching activities if one set is cut apart. the 40 photocards ( 3¼ ” x 4 " ) are in full - color and laminated. flower background information is included for the teacher. nuts ( pk3 ) nuts are nourishing snacks and learning how they grow will make eating them all the more fun! this set of 22 two - color cards ( 5½ ” x 3½ ” ) of plant and nut illustrations represents eleven edible nuts / seeds. the child pairs the illustration cards of the nuts in their growing stage to the cards of the nuts in and out of their shells. make the activity even more successful by bringing the real nuts into the classroom. kitchen herbs & spices ( pk5 ) this set help children to learn about 20 plants that give us herbs and spices. the delicately drawn, 2 - color illustrations clearly show the parts of the plants that give us edible leaves, seeds, stems, bark, bulbs, and berries. create an aromatic and tasty exercise by having the children


that give us herbs and spices. the delicately drawn, 2 - color illustrations clearly show the parts of the plants that give us edible leaves, seeds, stems, bark, bulbs, and berries. create an aromatic and tasty exercise by having the children pair real herbs and spices with these cards ( 4½ ” x 6¼ ” ). plants we eat ( pk9 ) learn more about food plants and their different edible parts. this set classifies 18 plant foods into six groups : roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. a duplicate set of 18 labeled picture / definition cards ( 6 " x 6 " ) shows plants in their growing stage with only their “ food ” portion in color. one set of picture / definition cards is spiral bound into 6 control booklets that include definitions of the root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, and seed. the other set of picture / definition cards are to be cut apart for 2 or 3 - part matching exercises. plant description cards can be used for “ who am i? ” games with our plant picture cards or with real foods. both cards and booklets are laminated. plants we eat replicards ( pk9w ) six replicards are photocopied to produce worksheets for an extension exercise using our set plants we eat ( pk9 ). children color and label the worksheets, which illustrate three plant examples for each of the following groups : roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. the plants we eat booklets serve as controls. after worksheets ( 8½ ” x 11 " ) are colored and labeled, they can be cut apart, stapled together, and made into six take - home booklets. these booklets may generate lively family dinner - table discussions : “ a potato is a what? ” plants - who am i? ( wp ) this beginning activity for lower elementary strengthens both reading and listening skills, and provides children with simple facts about 10 plants. the set consists of duplicate, labeled picture cards with descriptive text and features plants different from those in the first knowledge : plant stories ( see below ). the set of cards with text ending in “ who am i? ” is cut apart into 10 picture cards, 10 plant name cards, and 10 text cards. the other set is left whole. cards are used for picture - to - text card matching exercises and for playing the “ who am i ” game. cards measure 6½ ” x 4 " and are in full color


cards, and 10 text cards. the other set is left whole. cards are used for picture - to - text card matching exercises and for playing the “ who am i ” game. cards measure 6½ ” x 4 " and are in full color and laminated. first knowledge : plant stories ( pk7 ) this set consists of 19 duplicate plant picture / text cards. one set is cut apart for 3 - part matching activities, and the other set is placed in the green, 6 - ring mini - binder labeled plants. the teacher has the option of changing the cards in the binder as needed. the children can match the 3 - part cards ( 6 " x 3¾ ” ) to the cards in the binder, practice reading, learn about the diverse characteristics of these plants, and then play “ who am i? ” the eight angiosperms picture cards can be sorted beneath two cards that name and define monocots and dicots. these activities prepare children for later work with our plant kingdom chart & cards ( see below ), which illustrates the same plants. plant kingdom chart and cards ( pk6 ) our 4 - color plastic paper chart and cards represents the current classification of the plant kingdom ( not illustrated here ) – the same as is used in secondary and college level biology courses. this classification organizes the plant kingdom in a straightforward manner with simple definitions and examples under each heading. firs the plants are categorized as either nonvascular plants ( bryophytes ) or vascular plants. then the vascular plants are divided into two groups : seedless plants or seed plants. seed plants are divided into two groups : gymnosperms and angiosperms with sub - categories. nineteen picture cards ( 2¼ ” x 3 " ) illustrate the currently recognized phyla of the plant kingdom. children match the 19 plant picture cards to the pictures on the chart ( 18 " x 32 " ). text on the back of the picture cards describes each plant. advanced students can recreate the chart with the title cards provided, using the chart as a control of error. background information is provided. parts of a mushroom parts of a gilled mushroom are highlighted and labeled on six 2 - color cards ( 3 " x 5 " ). photocopy the replicard ( 8½ ” x 11 " ) to make quarter page worksheets. the child colors and labels the worksheets, using the picture cards as a guide. completed worksheets can be stapled together to make a booklet for “


##rd ( 8½ ” x 11 " ) to make quarter page worksheets. the child colors and labels the worksheets, using the picture cards as a guide. completed worksheets can be stapled together to make a booklet for “ parts of a mushroom ”. ( in - print product code fk1 ) fungi ( fk4 ) members of the fungus kingdom have a wide variety of forms. children see fungi everywhere, such as mold on food, or mushrooms on the lawn. this duplicate set of labeled picture cards shows 12 common fungi found indoors and out. fungi illustrated : blue cheese fungus, bolete, coral fungus, cup fungus, jelly fungus, lichens, mildew, milky mushrooms, mold, and morel. background information is included. pictures cards ( 3½ ” x 4½ ” ) are in full color and laminated. classification of the fungus kingdomchart and cards ( fk3 ) this classification of the fungus kingdom organizes 18 representative fungi into four major groups and two important fungal partnerships : chytrids, yoke fungi, sac fungi, club fungi, lichens, mycorrhizae. children match the 18 picture cards ( 2 - 7 / 8 ” x 2 - 3 / 8 ” ) to the pictures on the 2 - color chart ( 18 " x 16 " ). after this activity, they can sort the picture cards under the label cards for the 5 fungus groups, using the chart as the control. description of each fungus type is printed on the back of the picture cards. background information is included for the teacher. this chart is printed on vinyl and does not need to be laminated.


education for sustainable diversity ( esd ), as defined by the office for inclusion, is the practice of acquiring knowledge about and becoming aware of ways in which our beliefs and biases impact the quality of relationships among people from different cultural groups around the world. the goal of the office for inclusion is to support a campus community that understands how to fully integrate the university ’ s core values of diversity and inclusion into campus work and learning environments. esd serves to provide opportunities for people to better understand the complexities of and synergies between, the issues threatening our intercultural sustainability and assess their own values and those of the society in which they live in. esd seeks to engage people in negotiating a sustainable future, making decisions and acting on them. to do this effectively, the following skills are essential to esd : - envisioning - - being able to imagine a better future. the premise is if we recognize and begin to understand the issues that obstruct intercultural respect, we will be better able to work through issues and find ways to respect each other. - critical thinking and reflection - - learning to question our current belief systems and to recognize the assumptions underlying our knowledge, perspective and opinions. critical thinking skills help people learn to examine social and cultural structures in the context of sustainable intercultural development. - systemic thinking - - acknowledging complexities and looking for links and synergies when trying to find solutions to problems. - building partnerships - - promoting dialogue and negotiation, learning to work together. - participation in decision - making - - empowering people. - interactive theatre uses customized and uniquely designed sketches performed by actors to address specific issues, and allow for open and guided discussion between the audience and actors to find solutions to issues. - customized small - group workshops, large - group presentations, and symposia featuring themes around diversity, inclusion and social justice. - e - learning tools custom designed for large audiences on specific topics - topics include : msu ' s anti - discrimination policies, diversity / inclusion, best practices for more information or to request a service, please contact the main office at 517 - 353 - 3922.


eggs are an excellent source of choline, a little - known but essential nutrient that contributes to fetal brain development and helps prevent birth defects. the national academy of sciences recommends increased choline intake for pregnant and breastfeeding women. two eggs - including the yolks - contain about 250 milligrams of choline, or roughly half the recommended daily amount. the national academy of sciences recommends that pregnant women consume 450 milligrams of choline per day and that breastfeeding women consume 550 milligrams per day. in addition to choline, eggs have varying amounts of three other nutrients that pregnant women need most. eggs are a good source of the highest quality protein, which helps to support fetal growth. eggs also have a b vitamin that is important for normal development of nerve tissue and can help reduce the risk of serious birth defects that affect the baby ' s brain and spinal cord development. the type of iron in eggs ( a healthy mixture of heme and non - heme iron ) is particularly well - absorbed, making eggs a good choice for pregnant and breastfeeding women who are at higher risk for anemia. to learn more about choline and stay up - to - date on the latest research visit, www. cholineinfo. org.


there is perhaps no sound so recognizable as the first drone of a bagpipe. that sustained note acts as harmony to the melody, which is fingered by the piper on the chanter. these days, bagpipes are most commonly connected with the scots, but pipes have a long history in ireland, as well. the great irish warpipes, which are nearly identical to scottish highland bagpipes, appear in historical reference as early as the 1400s. as the name implies, the instrument was played by irish soldiers as they marched into battle. in 1581, the italian music theorist vincenzo galilei — galileo ’ s father — described the bagpipe as “ much used by the irish : to its sound this unconquered fierce and warlike people march their armies and encourage each other to deeds of valor. with it they also accompany the dead to the grave making such sorrowful sounds as to invite, nay to compel the bystander to weep. ” while the warpipes continued to be used in battle, by the 1700s, a new kind of pipe appeared in ireland — the uilleann pipe ( “ pipes of the elbow ” ). an ancestor of the pastoral pipes, the uilleann pipe is smaller ; its bellow is filled with air by pumping the elbow rather than blowing with the mouth ; it can produce many notes thanks to its two - octave range ; it is quieter and sweeter sounding than its warrior kin ; and it is played sitting down. its dulcet tones make it a lovely ensemble instrument and so it can be heard quite a lot in traditional irish music. perhaps the best known uilleann piper of today is paddy moloney of the chieftains, who performed to a sold - out crowd last month in santa barbara. although the uilleann pipe is the national pipe of ireland, its makeup doesn ’ t lend itself to leading the charge — or parades. therefore, it is the great irish warpipes or generally the more common scottish bagpipe that folks see and hear in st. patrick ’ s day parades. in fact, this paddy ’ s day, several area bagpipers will be leading the annual santa barbara independent st. paddy ’ s day stroll down state street.


everybody has heard the rumor : alcohol kills brain cells ( just the weak ones, joked a comedian ). and if the rumor were true, surely the effect would show up after decades of drinking. with the same large group of twins that they are using in the duke alzheimer ' s disease study ( see article ), joe christian and his colleagues recently studied the connection between long - term alcohol intake and cognitive functioning in aging men. they divided the twins up into nondrinkers, past drinkers ( those who had quit drinking ), and five categories of social drinkers, from light to heavy. it turns out that moderate drinkers ( eight to sixteen drinks per week ) scored higher on a test of mental acuity than everyone else. what ' s more, if one of a pair of identical twins was a moderate drinker and the other a light drinker, the moderately drinking twin scored higher. " no evidence was found, " writes christian, " for negative effects on cognitive function related to the consumption of moderate amounts of alcohol. " this is not to downplay the risks of heavy drinking, christian warned. subjects in his study who drank more than sixteen drinks per week scored significantly lower than moderate drinkers. what ' s more, the other physical problems associated with heavy drinking - - cirrhosis, high blood pressure, and strokes - - are well known. still, this study should reassure the millions of moderate drinkers in america that an occasional cold beer will not impair their ability to think as they grow older. see additional sidebar on twins


the water runs low at lake harbor park in norton shores, mich. lake michigan ' s water levels set record lows in january. / kimberly p. mitchell, detroit free press new buffalo, mich. - this town has 1, 884 residents and almost 1, 000 boat slips filled by summer visitors, so low water levels in lake michigan threaten its economic stability and its identity as " the heart of harbor country. " no wonder jim oselka, who runs oselka marina, a family business founded here in 1957, says, " every time i see it raining, i ' m like ' yes! ' " the water lapping against the marina ' s 150 boat slips is 15 inches lower than it was a year ago, forcing oselka to consider dredging for the first time since the 1960s. he has to have enough clearance to accommodate sailboats with 5 - foot keels. " i ' m anticipating a good season. and i ' m hoping and praying that water levels have hit their low, and they ' re going to go back the other way, " oselka says. that wish is shared by communities and businesses all along the coasts of lake michigan and lake huron, which set record lows in january and are expected to stay 2 feet below long - term averages at least through august. blame the extended drought and hot weather that speeds evaporation, says keith kompoltowicz, chief of watershed hydrology for the army corps of engineers ' detroit district. the mean water level in january was 576. 02 feet above sea level, he says, breaking the previous record of 576. 05 in march 1964. the corps started keeping records in 1918. declining lake levels are causing problems across the region, says chuck may of the great lakes small harbors coalition, which represents small harbors authorized and maintained by the federal government. michigan has 56 of the 112 great lakes small harbors. " it gives me chills just to think about what will happen if we don ' t do something about it, " he says. " harbor after harbor is in danger of shutting down this summer. " inaccessible harbors mean trouble for marinas, restaurants, resorts and almost every other business in waterfront towns, may says, and commercial shippers must lighten their loads, increasing costs for their customers and consumers. a lack of army corps of engineers funding means communities must rely on state and local money for dredging, he says. the organization supports pending federal legislation that would require the corps to spend


lighten their loads, increasing costs for their customers and consumers. a lack of army corps of engineers funding means communities must rely on state and local money for dredging, he says. the organization supports pending federal legislation that would require the corps to spend the $ 1. 5 billion raised annually through harbor maintenance taxes on harbors ; much of the money now goes into the treasury. the problem extends beyond lakes michigan and huron. mike waterhouse, sportfishing coordinator for orleans county tourism in new york state, says its lake ontario harbor has less than half its usual 8 - foot depth and there ' s little chance of dredging this year. that endangers the area ' s 33 charter boats and a fishing fleet that contributes $ 7 million annually to the local economy, he says. " last year we had 12 reported incidents of boats either going aground coming into our harbor or doing damage to their drive structures, " he says, " and that was just the reported incidents. something has to be done. " new buffalo used to get federal funds for dredging its harbor, but this year ' s project - which could cost more than $ 1 million - is being paid for by state money, a city emergency dredging fund, local businesses and the pokagon band of potawatomi indians, which operates the four winds casino here. the city is seeking bids now for dredging the waterway from the city boat launch through a channel by april 30, says ryan fellows, assistant to the city manager. the michigan legislature is considering bills that would cut costs for dredging permit fees and allocate $ 21 million for emergency dredging of 49 public harbors. fellows says dredging alone won ' t fix new buffalo ' s problems : in a few years, dredging could expose the bottom of the seawall, allowing water to flow beneath it. new buffalo harbor master robin abshire says this spring ' s dredging is essential. sailboats with 5 - foot keels would be unable to access the city marina now. some slips were unusable last fall because low water left a stretch of lake bottom exposed, she says, and some vehicles were damaged by a gap between the city boat launch and the water. abshire says a long - term plan to keep harbors open and the money to pay for maintenance are essential. the harbor generates $ 7. 7 million in annual revenue for the area and supports 130 jobs that produce $ 2. 5 million in labor income every year. " if this harbor were closed, " she says,


| primary immunodeficiency ( pi ) affects as many as 1 million americans and 10 million worldwide. yet, it is just beginning to receive widespread attention. when a defect in the immune system is carried through the genes, it is called a primary immunodeficiency. more than 150 primary immunodeficiency diseases have been identified to date. they range widely in severity. primary immunodeficiency diseases are characterized by infections that can often be recurring, persistent, debilitating, and chronic. everyone should know the following vital facts about pi : the result of research in this area of immunology is that our progress is quickly yielding positive benefits for victims of cancer, aids, asthma, autoimmunity and a wide range of pulmonary and allergic conditions. - primary immunodeficiency diseases can go undetected because they do not have unique symptoms of their own. rather, they appear as " ordinary " infections, often of the sinuses, ears, or lungs. they can also cause gastrointestinal problems or inflammation of the joints. families and doctors are often unaware that the troubling conditions they are dealing with are actually rooted in a defect of the immune system. - the infections can be chronic. this means they keep coming back, sometimes frequently, and can be severe. they tend to require prolonged recovery, and the patient may respond poorly to a conventional course of antibiotics. - the diseases can strike males and females of all ages, though they frequently present themselves early in life. the more severe immunodeficiency diseases are detected most frequently in children. - early diagnosis and treatment of primary immunodeficiency disease is essential to preventing the infections from causing permanent damage. - research in primary immunodeficiency is central to progress in immunology. as medical science further illuminates the complexities of the immune system, patients are benefiting from a host of cutting - edge diagnostic tools and treatments. the problems presented by genetic immunodeficiency disease have challenged researchers and immunologists to reach improved diagnoses, treatments, and innovative new therapies. promising results are being reported for immunodeficient patients using intravenous gamma globulin, bone marrow transplantation, enzyme replacement and genetically engineered proteins such as gamma interferon. how is primary immunodeficiency diagnosed? correct diagnosis of a pi disease begins with awareness of the 10 warning signs and the first step in diagnosing a primary immunodeficiency


and genetically engineered proteins such as gamma interferon. how is primary immunodeficiency diagnosed? correct diagnosis of a pi disease begins with awareness of the 10 warning signs and the first step in diagnosing a primary immunodeficiency disease is a good evaluation. an immune system specialist ( immunologist ) can help with diagnosis and treatment. if you need help finding an immunologist, the find an expert section of this website can help you locate a physician or medical center in your area. evaluation of the immune system may include : at the time of the evaluation, your doctor will ask questions about your health. frequent or unusual infections, prolonged diarrhea, and poor childhood growth are some symptoms of a possible primary immunodeficiency. because some primary immunodeficiencies run in families, you may also be asked questions about your family history. - detailed medical history - physical exam - blood tests - vaccines to test the immune response if a primary immunodeficiency is suspected, a series of blood tests and vaccines may be required. blood tests will show if any part of the immune system is missing or not working properly. vaccines may be given to test the immune system ' s response, i. e. its ability to fight invaders. see the 4 stages of immunologic testing for more on this process. how is pi treated? there are a variety of treatment choices for immunodeficient patients. at a minimum, the recurring infections can be treated with antibiotics. these can help prevent damage caused by chronic illness, improving a patient ' s chances for long - term survival while enhancing the quality of life. another important treatment intervention is antibody replacement therapy, often referred to as ivig therapy. ivig works by replacing the antibodies that the body cannot make on its own. ivig is now an accepted treatment protocol for a range of primary immunodeficiency diseases. individuals can learn more about antibody replacement therapy or ivig, by visiting the following websites : baxter healthcare, csl behring, grifols, and octapharma. in other cases, bone marrow transplants, gene therapy, or other alternative treatments may be appropriate. what are the goals of treatment? doctors believe people with a primary immunodeficiency can lead active and full lives. a guiding objective of the jeffrey modell foundation is to help people with pi regain or maintain control of their lives by : additional information on pi - participating in work, school, family, and social activities ;


republic of panama the southernmost of the central american nations, panama is south of costa rica and north of colombia. the panama canal bisects the isthmus at its narrowest and lowest point, allowing passage from the caribbean sea to the pacific ocean. panama is slightly smaller than south carolina. it is marked by a chain of mountains in the west, moderate hills in the interior, and a low range on the east coast. there are extensive forests in the fertile caribbean area. explored by columbus in 1502 and by balboa in 1513, panama was the principal shipping point to and from south and central america in colonial days. in 1821, when central america revolted against spain, panama joined colombia, which had already declared its independence. for the next 82 years, panama attempted unsuccessfully to break away from colombia. between 1850 and 1900 panama had 40 administrations, 50 riots, 5 attempted secessions, and 13 u. s. interventions. after a u. s. proposal for canal rights over the narrow isthmus was rejected by colombia, panama proclaimed its independence with u. s. backing in 1903. for canal rights in perpetuity, the u. s. paid panama $ 10 million and agreed to pay $ 250, 000 each year, which was increased to $ 430, 000 in 1933 and to $ 1, 930, 000 in 1955. in exchange, the u. s. got the canal zone — a 10 - mile - wide strip across the isthmus — and considerable influence in panama ' s affairs. on sept. 7, 1977, gen. omar torrijos herrera and president jimmy carter signed treaties giving panama gradual control of the canal, phasing out u. s. military bases, and guaranteeing the canal ' s neutrality. nicolas ardito barletta, panama ' s first directly elected president in 16 years, was inaugurated on oct. 11, 1984, for a five - year term. he was a puppet of strongman gen. manuel noriega, a former cia operative and head of the secret police. noriega replaced barletta with vice president eric arturo delvalle a year later. in 1988, noriega was indicted in the u. s. for drug trafficking, but when delvalle attempted to fire him, noriega forced the national assembly to replace delvalle with manuel solis palma. in dec. 1989, the assembly named noriega “ maximum leader ” and declared the u. s. and panama to be in a state of