'Paleo-Grassland Research 2000': a conference on the reconstruction and
modelling of past grass-dominated biomes (sponsored by the National Science
 Foundation Geosciences: Earth System History and PAGES Past Global Changes -
 IGBP)

Co-ordinators K.R.M. Beuning1 and M.J. Wooller2


1 Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 265 Church Street, Middletown,
Connecticut, 06459-6067

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2 Tropical Paleoenvironments Research Group, Department of Geography,
University of Wales Swansea, Singleton Park, Swansea. SA2 8PP

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Rationale


Modelling exercises and the multi-proxy approach are the most appropriate methods
for the reconstruction of past grasslands and are reliant on each other for hypothesis
testing.  The analyses of pollen, carbon isotopes (including compound specific
analysis), grass cuticles and phytoliths are the most appropriate techniques available
for the reconstruction of past grasslands.  Development of techniques that seek to
determine the past distribution of C3 vs. C4 grasses is ongoing and should be in
conjunction with the modelling community - so that a co-ordinated prescription for
the multi-proxy reconstruction of paleo grasslands can be established.

Proposal

'Paleo Grassland Research 2000' will bring together international researchers to
synthesise an informed multi-proxy approach to the reconstruction of past grasslands.
The conference will take place over three days and will involve researchers actively
involved in studying the reconstruction, biogeography, ecology and physiology of
past grasslands.  Participating disciplines will include: pollen, stable isotopes, grass
cuticles, charcoal, phytoliths and environmental modelling.  Priority will be given to
 those willing to make an oral presentation.  The emphasis of the conference will be a
holistic appreciation of paleo-grassland evidence.

Venue:  The venue for the conference will be on Long Island Sound at the Water's
 Edge Resort, Westbrook, Connecticut.

Date:  The proposed date for the conference is 1 - 3 June 2000. (Abstract deadline: 1
 February 2000)

Format:  Morning sessions will consist of oral presentations on research involving
paleo-grassland reconstruction and will be presented by the invited delegates in mixed
 discipline sessions.  These presentations will provide an opportunity for individuals to
appreciate the problems and possibilities in other closely related disciplines.  Afternoon
 sessions will consist of working groups focussing on specific proxy methods and
challenges of specific geographical areas.  The conference will culminate with a
workshop to discuss the future for paleo-grassland research and establish a PAGES
affiliated working group, Paleo Grassland Research Association (P.G.R.ASS.), which
 will aim to:

. synthesise ideas and methods for the reconstruction of past grass dominated biomes.
. identify future goals and strategies for paleo-grassland research.
. promote collaboration between delegates and establish a network of relevant research
expertise.

Publication: We plan publication of the conference proceedings in a thematic issue of
an international journal.

Those wishing to receive a copy of the second circular should contact
the organizers.

*********************************************
Mr Matthew Wooller,
Tropical Palaeoenvironments Research Group,
Palaeoecology Laboratory,
Department of Geography,
University of Wales Swansea,
Singelton Park,
Swansea,
South Wales,
United Kingdom.
SA2 8PP.
*********************************************
*********************************************
Mr Matthew Wooller,
Tropical Palaeoenvironments Research Group,
Palaeoecology Laboratory,
Department of Geography,
University of Wales Swansea,
Singelton Park,
Swansea,
South Wales,
United Kingdom.
SA2 8PP.
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