I received this announcement from one of NAA's international guests (to the 2006 NAA conference in Flagstaff), Alicia de la Cruz-Novey.  Thought others on this list might be interested.

Abi Rome

Dear Colleague: 

We are please to announce that we are taking applications for participation in the sixth-annual International Seminar on Protected Area Management to be held August 4-22, 2008 at the University of Montana, USA. 

This Seminar is a technical and professional course designed for mid-career planners and managers of nationally significant protected areas worldwide.  The program is initiated and organized by the Universities of Montana, Idaho and Colorado State and the USDA Forest Service Office of International Programs.  Participants will evaluate policies and institutional arrangements that sustain both people and natural resources.

To experience the opportunities available in the northern Rocky Mountain region, participants will travel to several types of protected areas including Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, and Lolo, Bitterroot, and Flathead National Forests.  Participants will also travel to Washington DC to discuss protected area management and funding issues. Particular attention will be directed toward sustainable tourism development, transboundary management in the face of climate change, and ways to incorporate community interests in area management.  

Additional information about this Seminar including application details are available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/global/is/ispam/welcome.htm. Applications are due May 2, 2008.  Since enrollment in the Seminar is limited, applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.  This course is offered in the English language, so English speaking proficiency is a requirement for course attendance.  All course expenses, including in-country travel, lodging, meals, and materials, are covered by the tuition expense.  Applicants must seek and acquire financial sponsorship to at tend, as funding for participation is not available from the Seminar organizers.  Applicants are also responsible for transportation to and from the United States. 

Feel free to contact me with any questions via the address above or e-mail at: pam@.... Thank you in advance for your interest, and please pass this announcement on to other colleagues who may have an interest in attending this year's program.

Sincerely,                                                                                                       

Libby Khumalo