Researchers, educators and public and private sector representatives can now submit presentation abstracts on the topics of conservation and related issues in Arkansas for the "Conserving the Natural State Forum" to be held Sept. 6-8, with an abstract deadline of March 22.

The conference is organized through a partnership between the U of A Environmental Dynamics interdisciplinary program and the University of Arkansas-Monticello College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The conference will be held at Winthrop Rockefeller Institute in Morrilton, and registration will open later in the spring semester. The early bird registration fee for students will be $50 and $100 for professionals, and general admission after early bird registration will be $300.

The conference's goal is to help establish a network of Arkansas researchers and educators in ecosystem studies and management to collaborate and leverage resources for the benefit of the state and its stakeholders.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Mathilda Hatfield, associate director of development and alumni relations in the Graduate School and International Education, at mh174@uark.edu.

To submit an abstract or find out more information, visit the conference website.