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Conservation Biology Institute

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Project Goal

The Conservation Biology Institute (CBI) is a science-based non-profit founded in 1997. The mission of CBI is to provide scientific expertise to support the conservation and recovery of biological diversity in its natural state through applied research, education, planning, and community service. CBI uses computer mapping extensively in most of its many conservation projects throughout North America and abroad.

The project highlighted is a compelling assessment of the landscape changes that have occurred in Southeast Alaska due to road building and logging over the last 40 years. The series of three maps shows dramatic and rapid change that threatens the ecological integity of America's last remaining intact temperate rainforest. This work was conducted through Global Forest Watch (GFW) - a program at the World Resources Institute, which operates in 10 different countries. CBI was chosen to be the US partner of GFW in 2002.

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Business Problem Solved

The Conservation Biology Institute was founded to help fill a void between the science of conservation assessments and planning and conservation action. Integrating GIS, remote sensing, and field biology, we have strived to analyze complex conservation problems and to communicate effective solutions.

Technology Implemented

The Conservation Biology Institute continually strives to acquire and maintain the most advanced computer hardware and analytical software. Current facility includes 10 networked high-end PC computers (most running GIS software). We utilize various plotter devices and generate large amounts of graphics for reports and our website.

Development Team Biography

The Conservation Biology Institute does not have a formal development team per se. Direction of the organization is provided by a Board of Directors.

Founder, current President of the Board, and Executive Director is Dr. James R. Strittholt who has over 15 years experience using GIS and remote sensing to address a wide array of conservation issues.

Michael White oversees our satellite office in San Diego, CA and is an accomplished scientist with extensive science and project experience.

Pamela Frost has been Secretary since the beginning and also works on staff. She also serves the Board as the technical advisor.

Jun Onaka, a highly skilled and experienced economist, serves as Treasurer.

Other highly valued board members include

Terry Watt an accomplished planner from the Bay Area.

David Johns, lawyer and educator with extensive experience in non-profit governance.

John Cannon, conservation scientist and successful businessman.