This message to the general isotope research community constitutes a solicitation of interest to attend and participate in the next International Symposium on Applied Isotope Geochemistry, AIG-4. AIG is a working group of the International Association of Geochemistry and Cosmochemistry (IAGC). The purpose of this symposium is to bring together researchers from academia and industry who specialize in the application of isotope geochemistry to the earth sciences. The main goal is to promote discussions and exchange of information among scientists on the newest isotope technologies used in applied research. AIG-4 is the fourth edition of the AIG International Symposium. Previous editions were held in Geiranger, Norway (AIG-1, 1993), Lake Louise, Canada (AIG-2, 1997), and Orleans, France (AIG-3, 1999). Although an emerging central theme of these meetings has been the application of isotopes to present-day water resource and environmental/ecosystem issues, the participation of researchers involved in studies of paleo-environments, more traditional geologic settings (sediments/diagenesis, ore deposits, hydrothermal systems) and development of novel isotope tracers and analytical techniques is strongly encouraged. AIG-4 will take place from June 25 to 29, 2001 at the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove, California (very close to Monterey, CA). Asilomar is a beautiful, rustic retreat situated directly on the Pacific Ocean coast, and will provide a relaxing as well as stimulating environment for the conference activities. For this conference, we are planning three and a half days of scientific sessions, with oral presentations in the mornings, free time in the early to mid-afternoons, poster sessions in the later afternoons, and featured speakers in abbreviated sessions after the evening meals. We anticipate that all poster presentations will remain displayed in our meeting hall throughout the length of the conference, allowing for a truly integrated scientific program. A robust Accompanying Members program is being planned (visits to local wineries, tours of the famous 17 Mile Drive and Steinbeck's Cannery Row in Monterey, sea kayaking, the list goes on and on...), so now is the time to make plans for a California vacation with your favorite traveling companion(s) in conjunction with the conference. In addition, we are planning to hold a banquet on the final evening in the Outer Bay Room at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. One wall of this room is the world's largest window (54 feet long, 15 feet tall, and 13 inches thick) that looks into the tallest aquarium exhibit in the world: a million gallons of seawater containing sharks, barracuda, tuna, sea turtles, giant ocean sunfish, and more. An exciting and informative evening should be anticipated! Conference attendance will be limited to approximately 150 scientists and accompanying members in order to maintain the cordial "small-meeting feel" of previous AIG conferences. Although meeting costs have not yet been finalized, we anticipate that the total for accomodations, meals, and conference expenses will be approximately $700 US. If you are interested in participating in this conference, please respond to this message directly by email at your earliest convenience ([log in to unmask]) and your name will be added to the Conference Registrar's mailing list. (Please do NOT respond to Isogeochem or Plasmachem! Be careful with that "Reply" button!) Detailed information about the conference, registration materials and instructions for preparation of abstracts for the Proceedings Volume will be forwarded to respondents later this summer. Also, in your reply feel free to suggest themes for potential special sessions within the scientific program. Looking forward to a great AIG-4, beautiful California weather (and wine!), and to seeing you at Asilomar! Tom Bullen, for the Organizing Committee Thomas D. Bullen, Hydrologist Branch of Regional Research, Water Resources Division U.S. Geological Survey MS 420, 345 Middlefield Rd. Menlo Park, CA 94025 650-329-4577; FAX: 650-329-4538 [log in to unmask] Thomas D. Bullen, Hydrologist Branch of Regional Research, Water Resources Division U.S. Geological Survey MS 420, 345 Middlefield Rd. Menlo Park, CA 94025 650-329-4577; FAX: 650-329-4538