At its first meeting in Prangins, Switzerland (9-11 November 2006) the Western Gray Whale Advisory Panel agreed to establish two Task Forces to undertake specific work relating to 1. Photo-Identification and 2. Oil Spill Prevention, Preparedness and Response.
What is a Task Force?
To access additional expertise that may be required on specific issues, the Panel may, at the discretion of the Chair, constitute task forces under the coordination of one of the panel members. The task forces may include other members of the panel as well as “non-panel” scientists with relevant expertise. (See WGWAP Terms of Reference)
Task Forces are therefore an opportunity for groups of scientists and other technical specialist to come together to examine specific technical issues. Where appropriate, IUCN may contract additional “Associate Scientists” to contribute to the work of Task Forces, where it is believed such additional technical expertise will be valuable. The findings of each Task Force are reported back to the full panel at successive meetings of the WGWAP to enable all stakeholders to more fully understand what decisions and recommendations have been made by the Task Force.
