In addition to its biological significance to the world scientific community and its contributions to education and human resources, this proposal includes a unique value-added component, a human dimension that goes beyond the typical survey and inventory request. Sakhalin, like the neighboring Kuril Islands, has been the focus of dispute between the governments of Russia and Japan for 160 years, but especially since the close of World War II (Roberts, 1957). While Japan no longer makes any official claim to Sakhalin, old animosities between Japanese and Russians still persist (Stephan, 1971; Vysokov, 1996). These differences have severely impaired communication and trust between the two nations, not only among their politicians but among scientists and educators as well. Active collaboration on "disputed territory" will foster greater understanding among Russians, Japanese, and Americans, and the enthusiastic media attention that we are sure to receive will send an international message of mutual cooperation.
In addition to its biological significance to the world scientific community and its contributions to education and human resources, this proposal includes a unique value-added component, a human dimension that goes beyond the typical survey and inventory request. Sakhalin, like the neighboring Kuril Islands, has been the focus of dispute between the governments of Russia and Japan for 160 years, but especially since the close of World War II (Roberts, 1957). While Japan no longer makes any official claim to Sakhalin, old animosities between Japanese and Russians still persist (Stephan, 1971; Vysokov, 1996). These differences have severely impaired communication and trust between the two nations, not only among their politicians but among scientists and educators as well. Active collaboration on "disputed territory" will foster greater understanding among Russians, Japanese, and Americans, and the enthusiastic media attention that we are sure to receive will send an international message of mutual cooperation.