Voucher specimens

[Mark Walker]

Kenelm wrote:

> 	I am no enthusiast for collecting permits, having had to cope
> with them myself on numerous occasions--but I can understand why a country
> would prefer to have its own types residing in its own museums (as well
> as having copies of any papers resulting from study of its flora and fauna).
> This is a legitimate concern for any country--however inconvenient it may
> be for foreigners.

I spend too much time in front of this computer.  Anyway, I can totally relate
to the above argument.  I would think that small countries would be even more
likely to be concerned about _losing_ their resources to collectors from big
countries (I'm obviously not talking about geographic area or population here).
 There must be some way that a hobbyist like me, whom keeps careful records and
data and is not interested in stealing away precious resources, can convince
these governments to permit my collecting within their boundaries.  The problem
is that no one cares enough to educate themselves or to take the time necessary
to verify that what I would be taking out of the country is of no consequence. 
So the simple solution is to make it difficult to get the permit, save for a
legitimate scientific research effort which, by nature, can apply sufficient
pressure.  This may sound good to some of you, but it's quite frustrating to
me.  Unfortunately, if the permitting process becomes more difficult than sound
rationale would justify, then one is tempted to become equally irrational.  A
la Mr. T.

I guess my rantings on the list over the past few months are an indication that
I feel that dialogue of this sort is of great value.  I hope no one grows
overly tired of the debate in general, because it truly helps to shape our
views (and spark us into action).  Remember - perpetuation of species is the
common goal!

Mark Walker

p.s.  I'm either on the net, or I'm carrying one.  What a life!