The team of scientists carrying out this project is committed to an independent and thorough analysis. We are all determined to produce the best possible scientific study of the effects of the proposed land transfer on the Marbled Murrelet. The Pacific Lumber Company, although it provides the funding for the work, does not control the results that will be obtained.
How will the analysis be used?
The results of these analyses will be available to all interested parties. Our main goal is to determine the probable effect of the proposed land transfer on Murrelet populations in Northern California. This information may be used by the state and federal agencies, and by the Pacific Lumber Company to accept, reject, or modify the proposed land transfer.
If the analyses suggest that the proposed transfer will support a viable Murrelet population, then it is probable that Pacific Lumber will incorporate the data into their Habitat Conservation Plan. This will then be submitted to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and state agencies. These agencies may consider these analyses, together with other data, to make their own determination on Murrelet viability.
Why just Marbled Murrelets?
The analyses we are carrying out are tightly focused on Murrelets. We are not studying other wildlife (Spotted Owls, Salmon, etc.), or other issues (e.g. the value of the Forest to different groups). As individuals we have opinions on these topics; however our work here is aimed solely at an objective analysis of Murrelet viability. Given the importance of this Murrelet population to the survival of the species as a whole, it is probable that conservation of this species will have a key role in determining the shape of any land transfer.
What if the analyses say Murrelets need more reserved land?
This is a real possibility. If the analyses do come out this way, then the proposed land transfer may be either modified or rejected by the regulatory agencies, or by Pacific Lumber Company.
