ENVIRONMENTAL REFUGEES AND ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION AT BLACK MESA, ARIZONA

Ten years ago at GSA-Reno, native residents of Black Mesa, Arizona with supporting scientists, journalists and educators pled the case for saving the region from further coal exploitation, aquifer depletion, pollution and eviction. The case was well-received, but environmental and humanitarian problems continue, with new threats on the horizon. The presenter, who coordinated the 2000 session, will give a ten-year review and a look forward, in the context of the worldwide plight of environmental refugees and the need for ecological restoration of damaged homelands. Panelists from 2000 and other experts will be invited to attend and be available to reflect on prospects and strategies. Transcripts of the 2000 session and from the related 1997 GSA-Salt Lake City session are available on request: leiderman@mindspring.com