This part of our development site is a place for “working papers,” i.e., works in progress. As with the web applications at the main site, these working papers are early releases as we develop ideas. We post these pieces for a few reasons:
To test new models of communication and collaboration. As with our web applications on the development site, the pages here are a test of different web technologies.
To solicit feedback from interested parties. We are always interested in ideas and thoughts from anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation, and conservation of species listed (or proposed for listing) under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA).
To demonstrate, e.g., for federal wildlife agencies, new ways to think about how they work, such as an approach of maximal openness. Increasing transparency of how federal agencies implement conservation laws such as the ESA is an over-arching goal of the Endangered Species Conservation program. We believe that one of the most effective ways to persuade is by leading through example.
IMPORTANT As with the web apps, these working papers do not represent any position held by Defenders of Wildlife. These are simply working documents that are part of our development testbed.
There are two primary ways to participate with this work.
Comment directly: We think that open discussion may be one of the most effective ways to improve the process. There are many different web annotation platforms out there, but we’re starting off by testing Hypothesis. On the right-hand side of this page and each of the working papers you will see a sidebar tab; when opened, you can view comments on specific words / lines / paragraphs of the page. You will need an Hypothesis account to join the discussion; joining is simple and free.
Email us: Not comfortable with public commenting or creating an Hypothesis account? Feel free to email us with your thoughts.
While we encourage interactivity and discussion, please note that we have a Code of Conduct that everyone needs to follow.