Scientific Communication for Natural Resource Professionals
American Fisheries Society Publication

Cecil A. Jennings, Thomas E. Lauer, and Bruce Vondracek, Editors

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

The book Writing for Fishery Journals resulted from a 1988 American Fisheries Society (AFS) Annual Meeting symposium sponsored by the American Institute of Fishery Research Biologists. It has been a source of information that has been widely used by both professionals and students in the fisheries and natural resources field. However, it has become noticeably outdated in recent years. For example, internet searches, electronic submissions, and digital journals were not only absent from the original publication, they were likely not even considered for inclusion.  In addition, several sections could use some updates as technology in other areas has progressed (e.g., figure construction).  Although the concept of “good” writing has not changed, the book Scientific Communication for Natural Resource Professionals will provide current tips and techniques that will assist writers, and should benefit a broader audience than the original on which it was based.

Contributors will initially come from individuals that submit presentation abstracts for a fisheries writing symposium that was held at the AFS annual meeting in Anchorage in 2005. Some chapter topics not initially submitted by authors may require solicitation from knowledgeable individuals by the editor.

Peer review will occur by fisheries or natural resources professionals.  Some will be members of the AFS Education Section, while others may be former editors or associate editors of fisheries and natural resources journals. All will have some demonstrated knowledge and understanding of scientific writing principles.