Question & Answer

Q: What is the Canadian Aquatic Resources Section (CARS) of the American Fisheries Society?
A: CARS is an association of members of the American Fisheries Society (AFS) who share concerns about fisheries and aquatic resources in Canada. The Section was initiated to provide a forum for discussion of Canadian aquatic resource issues and the future of the fisheries profession in Canada, and to facilitate an expansion of AFS services to Canadian members.

Q: What is the American Fisheries Society (AFS)?
A: The American Fisheries Society (AFS), founded in 1870, is the oldest and largest professional society representing fisheries scientists. AFS promotes scientific research and enlightened management of resources for optimum use and enjoyment by the public. It also encourages a comprehensive education for fisheries scientists and continuing on-the-job training. The AFS publishes some of the world's leading fisheries research journals: the Transactions of the American Fisheries Society; North American Journal of Fisheries Management; North American Journal of Aquaculture (Formerly The Progressive Fish Culturist); The Journal of Aquatic Animal Health, and Fisheries (a monthly glossy magazine included in the AFS membership package). It organizes numerous scientific meetings where new results are reported and discussed. In addition to these primary functions, the Society has many other programs in areas such as professional certification, book publishing, international affairs, public affairs and public information. Membership in AFS is open to anyone interested in fisheries science and education, and the conservation and management of aquatic resources. (text taken from the AFS Web site and other promotional material)

Q: When was CARS founded?
A: CARS was established in 1991.

Q: What is CARS' mandate?
A: CARS was established to address a variety of issues and concerns related to the management of aquatic resources in Canada.

Q: Who can belong to CARS?
A: Any member of AFS are elibible for membership in CARS.

Q: How much does it cost to belong to CARS?
A: Annual dues for the Section are $10 (US). Canadian students pay no dues and are automatically given membership in CARS upon joining AFS.

Q: What does membership include?
A: Membership in CARS includes a subscription to the quarterly newsletter The Literal Zone, access to the members' area of the CARS web site, and voting priveleges during the annual business meeting and the election of section officers.