>>Alex has some very valid points, before you go knocking public facilities
any further (it was also done on the previous nite's IRC, so I guess it's
not *quite* so dated). Please remember, first and foremost, that by and
large these are Not-for-Profit organisations, which must keep a very close
track of their money, and must be a business first and foremost. This
creates a situation that can frustrate the most dedicated and well-trained
"keeper." (A term I never quite liked; they oft' do so much more...)<<
I'm not trying to put down any individuals, but it seems that some of these
places could be improved. I don't think there is dissagreement on that
point, that if it was possible they should be.
I think what needs to be done is to "sell" the accuracy. I think considering
the conservation trends and interest in nature that selling the fact that a
certain aquarium or zoo has created accurate representations of the aquatic
habitats could be a big selling point.
I think some of the problem with people in the hobby trying to work with the
administrators is that we try to tell them to do it because it's right, and
what will get through to them is that it could make money.
I think with the right marketing campaign you could make it work. "Tour the
waters of the world in one afternoon." <g>
>>There are two kinds of folks who work w/ fish. . .I did some volunteer (I
think that's right) work. . .folks
that work there do their best to get this knowledge as best they can. . .Try
and work in this type of environment and see how well you
can do. <<
>>The job of those who manage the places is to generate and manage the
money, not to know about the animals, or even the biology. They do their
job well, and the place can make enough to stay in business and attract
the terrorist (I mean tourists). Bottom line is all, and keepers have to
work w/in that system. <<
Exactly the problem is not ultimatley with the peons doing the work, if the
managment is good the employees will be good too. They will hire the right
people and allow them to do the work they are hired for. That's why if we
are concerned as lovers of fish we should apply to the top, but not in
complaint but with a suggestion to make them more money, which is what they
think of first.
I think a possible appropriate action would be if a large group of concerned
persons lead by smaller group of well known and respected
leaders in the field, were to prepare a well though out presentation there
might be a chance.
Also as we were discussing last night. If you can't get any already
established to go for it. I think the above fictitional group should apply
to the public at large to raise funds and go into competition with them.<g>
Rhonda
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/RhondaWilson/
American Livebearer Association
http://petsforum.com/ala/