Bid for a Joint Meeting of the VIII International Rangeland Congress (IRC) and the XXI International Grassland Congress
(IGC) Chinese Grassland Society
Hohhot, May 2003
Dr. Maureen Wolfson, Chairman of the Continuing Committee of the International Rangeland Congress
Dear Dr. Wolfson,
The Chinese Grassland Society sincerely invites the Continuing
Committee of IRC to conduct the VIII International Rangeland Congress
jointly with the XXI International Grassland Congress (IGC) in the
People’s Republic of China in 2008. The Main Congress will be held in
Hohhot, the Capital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Peoples
Republic of China, and a city with 475 years of history. Pre-congress
tours, post-congress tours and mid-congress tours, as well as
scientific presentations will be arranged. Proposed pre-congress
technical tours include three routes to visit typical steppe,
mountain/hill grassland and desert pastoral agriculture areas.
Mid-congress tours would be arranged to visit some teaching/research
facilities and fields near Hohhot. The post-congress tours include
three fixed technical routes and six alternative natural/cultural
scenery routes.
The theme of the congress is "Multi-Functional Grassland/Rangeland
in a Changing World". We expect to discuss all matters of interest to
the world relating to grassland/rangeland in the Conference.
Natural grasslands and rangelands are the largest continental
eco-systems in China. They are the birthplaces of many minority
nationalities and their cultures. In China, the grasslands/rangelands
are very important in the development of the economy, society, ecology,
nationality and culture. Grasslands/rangelands are the bases of a
developing rural economy because of their plentiful resources of
plants, wild animals and livestock. The ecological protective function
of grassland/rangelands is indispensable to maintain the ecological
balance, biodiversity conservation, and soil erosion control.
Grasslands/ rangelands provide the main water catchment’s areas that
many wetlands and rivers arise from and distribute to. Therefore, they
are of great importance in water safety and water quality.
Grasslands/rangelands are ideal places for recreation and ecological
tourism because of their unique natural landscapes and rich culture.
Even though we have developed a much better understanding of grasslands
and rangelands, there are still many unknown realms that need more
work. Today, we have to face many matters of common concern like
increasing population, resource depletion, environment deterioration,
and so on. Grassland researchers and workers could play an important
role in resolving these problems.
China’s grassland specialists, managers, educational workers and
enterprises wish to get a chance to host a jointing meeting of the IRC
and IGC in China. The Chinese Central Government and its regional
governments warmly support the Chinese Grassland Society in its
application for the Congress. The Congress will be open to delegates
from all countries and regions in the World. The congress will invite
top researchers, grassland workers and enterprises to contribute and to
participate. Key policy makers in grasslands and rangelands will also
be invited because of the importance of policy in grassland industry.
The Congress will be a window for China to show to the world its
achievements in grassland and rangeland research, its bright future for
the grassland industry, rich and colorful grassland scenery, splendid
cultures that include the primeval look of Inner Mongolia grasslands
and the distinctive Mongolian culture, developed pastoral agriculture
along the old Silk Road, the special charm of Tibet Plateau alpine
steppe, and Yunnan’s subtropical grassland which are all mountain
vertical vegetation spectrums, have unmatched natural views and
multi-ethnic cultures. Moreover, the Congress will provide an
opportunity for researchers to present the most up-to-date information
on grassland research and technology around the world, and to stimulate
discussion, to promote the exchange of ideas and to look for
cooperation. The Chinese Grassland Society is one of the most
influential society in China. Its 10 professional committees have had a
great influence on the Chinese Government’s agricultural policy. It has
more than 3000 members distributed in every province of China, covering
various sectors of education, research, extension, production,
marketing, administration and management, etc.
The Chinese Grassland Society holds its national conferences every
two years, and special meetings are organized by the professional
committees on a regular basis. Several International events have been
successfully hosted by the Society in the recent years. The Society is
full of confidence to host the Congress.
The Congress will be managed and organized by an Organization
consisting of the Bid Preparing Committee, Steering Committee and
Executive Committee. The Executive Committee includes a Congress
Secretariat, Program Group, Financial Group, Scientific Group and
Liaison Group. The President of the Chinese Grassland Society will be
the Director of the Organization.
The Chinese Grassland
Society, with official backing in our country, is committed to host a
Congress that will make major contributions to better multiple use and
management of global grassland resources.
Look forward to seeing you all in Hohhot.
Yours sincerely,
Prof. Hong Fuzeng
Honorary President of the Chinese Grassland
Society
Prof. Ren Jizhou
Head Consultant of the Chinese Grassland
Society
Prof. Yun Jinfeng
President of the Chinese Grassland
Society
Tel: 86-471-4318494
Fax: 86-471-4317724
E-mail: csgrass@public.hh.nm.cn
THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA is the third largest country in the
world. It covers a total area of 9.6 million square kilometers,
containing some of the most amazing scenery and landscape. China has
shared borders for centuries with Korea, Japan, Russia, Kazakhstan,
Tadzhikistan, Kirgizstan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sikkim,
Bhutan, Burma, Laos and Vietnam. It is geopolitically divided into
provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions. China has been one of
the fastest growing economies in the world over the past 20 years since
its reform and opening-up. It has enjoyed continued political
stability, social progress and economic prosperity. The capital city,
Beijing, is a dynamic modern metropolis with 3,000 years of cultural
treasures woven into the urban tapestry. Beijing will host the Summer
Olympic Games in 2008.
China has a population of more than 1.3 billion people, the largest
in the world. China is a multi-racial country with 56 ethnic groups.
The Han people account for about 92% of China’s total population. China
is a country with attractive scenic landscapes, a splendid culture, an
ancient civilization and a colorful ethnic heritage.
Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, along China’s northern border, is
a narrow strip of land sloping from northeast to southwest. It
stretches 2,400 km from west to east and 1,700 km from north to south.
The third largest among China’s provinces, municipalities, and
autonomous regions, it covers an area of 1.18 million square km, or
12.3 percent of the country’s territory. It has eight provinces and
regions as neighbors to the south, east and west and Mongolia and
Russia in the north, with a border of 4,200 km. Inner Mongolia is one
of the cradles of Chinese ancient civilizations. Over the centuries,
there were famous "Hetao", "Hongshan", "Xiajiadian", "Zalainuoer" and
"Dayao" cultures; and Inner Mongolia is still the main living area for
many ethnic minorities. There are 24 million people, and 49 national
minorities. Its grasslands, deserts, virgin forests, historical sites,
and unique folk customs are colorful with Mongolian and Han now being
the main ethnic groups. People honor keeping their doors open, and
their famous and unique Mongolian dances and songs.
Hohhot means "Green City" in Mongolian. It is the capital of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the regional center of
politics, economy, science, culture and education.
Hohhot was built in 1575. It is one of the cradles of ancient
Chinese civilization from the "Dayao Culture" which occurred 500,000
years ago. The ancient city sites of "Yunzhong" and "Shengle", and the
art of the ancient temples are part of the historic records of Hohhot.
The total area
of Hohhot Municipality is 17224 km2, and the urban area is 82 km2.
■Transportation
By plane: Hohhot airport is located at the eastern side of Hohhot,
15km to the center of the downtown. There are flights linking Hohhot
with Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xi’an, Wuhan, Chengdu,
Hailaer, Chifeng, Xilinhaote, and Ulanbaater that is the capital of
Mongolia. The number of flights and airlines increase every year.
By train: There are trains between Hohhot –
Ulanbaater，Hohhot – Beijing，Hohhot – Beijing –
Tianjin – Shanghai – Ninbo，Hohhot – Xian，Hohhot -Wuhan，Hohhot –
Taiyuan，
Hohhot-Hailaer，and
Hohhot-Yinchuan-Lanzhou etc.
Highway:
There is an express highway from Hohhot to Beijing and several national highways
that link Hohhot with other major cities in China.
■Accommodation
There are two 5 star hotels, 4 star hotels
and dozens of 3 star hotels as well as Youth hotels in Hohhot. Most of the
hotels are located in downtown Hohhot. The hotels provide all kinds of
breakfasts, dinners such as local flavor, western food, different minority
styles, and each hotel has a Muslim food, bar, entertainment and gym facilities.
■Hospital
There are more than 20 hospitals in the
downtown area of Hohhot including two SOS centers.
■Communication
The communication in Hohhot is very
convenient with all kinds of modern communication methods. There are IC, IP
telephones all over the city. Internet and cell phones are very popular using
GSM networks.
■Religious services
Hohhot is a city of colorful cultures and
religions. There are different Christian’s churches such as Catholic and
Protestant. There is one Huimin (Muslim) District in Hohhot with many mosques,
of which one was built 300 years ago; there are Lama and Buddhist temples.
■Weather
Most of the country is in the temperate
zone, although geographically the country stretches from the tropical and
subtropical zones in the south to the Frigid Zone in the north.
Inner Mongolia has a typical temperate
continental monsoon climate. January is the coldest month with a mean daily
temperature of -10 to -30C degrees, and July is
the hottest month with a mean daily temperature of 16-27C degrees. The daily temperature difference varies by 10C to 16C. June to October is the
best touring season.
■Language
Of the 56 ethnic groups in China, the Hui
and Manchu use the same languages as Han people, while the rest have their own
spoken and written languages. Mandarin is the official spoken language, and
Chinese is the official written language. Inner Mongolia and Chinese are the
official language in Inner Mongolia. In recent years, English is the main
foreign language course in primary, secondary, high schools, universities and
colleges. 200 to 300 volunteers will be mobilized to provide services for the
conference, at airport etc.
The conference working language is English.
The conference auditorium will be equipped for simultaneous translations and
non-English speaking Chinese and non-Chinese speaking delegates can hear and
comprehend.. Some other language service will also be provided.
■Passports/visas
A valid passport and visa is required.
Visas can be obtained from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Official
invitations will be issued to all the delegates in the name of the Chinese
Government so that visas can be applied for.
■Money
The Currency is Renminbi (RMB¥) Yuan. The exchange rate is $US1.0D=RMB8.23Yuan.
■Bank
The Bank of China has representative
offices in almost all major cities in the world. Banks are open Monday to
Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
■Credit cards
All leading credit cards are accepted in
major cities, ATMs are available in the major hotels, shopping malls and
department stores.
■Time
8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time
(GMT+8)
■Shopping
Hohhot is similar to other cities in China
in that it offers many exciting opportunities for shopping; there are several
large modern shopping malls and shopping centers.
There are several international airports in
China. The main international airport in Beijing is linked to all major cities
in the world. Chinese Tour Agencies have representative offices in all the major
cities in the world, and they would be delighted to help visitors get to
China.
■From Russia and Mongolia
There are flights between Beijing and
Moscow as well as Ulan Bator. You may also take the train from Moscow to Beijing
directly or via Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia to Beijing and Hohhot.
■Getting to Hohhot
There are weekly flights from Ulan Bator,
the capital of Mongolia, directly to Hohhot; you can take the train from Ulan
Bator to Hohhot.
It takes 50 minutes to fly from Beijing to
Hohhot, 8 hours by car or 10 hours by train.
●Suggested Optional Tours for delegates accompanying
persons
■Hohhot
City Tour
▲Half day tour
1. Zhaojun tomb – Great Mosque (built in 1737) – Catholic Church
(built in 1920s)– General Office of Qing Dynasty.
Zhaojun tomb
located near the bank of Da Hei River (Da Hei He), six miles to the south of
Hohhot (Hu He Hao Te), Zhaojun Tomb is one of the most beautiful scenes of
ancient times.
2. Dazhao – Xilituzhao – Wutasi
Visitors can see Dazhao located in
the old part of Hohhot. This temple was built in 1580 during the Ming Dynasty.
It is one of the biggest and best-preserved temples in Hohhot. The temple is
only an incidental scene; the main action is in the streets. Near Dazhao
Temple are fascinating adobes houses, which are typically low and squat with
decorated glass windows.
Xilitu Zhao,
also called Xiao Zhao, is situated in the south of Stone Lane (Shitou Xiang), Yu
Quan District (Yu Qaun Qu), Hohhot. It is the largest surviving Lama temple in
the city. But it was considered a small temple when it was constructed during
the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
It is said that Xilituge, who was a teacher of
Dalai Lama IV, once ascended to the Holy Seat of Dalai Lama in Tibet. Upon his
return he changed his temple’s name into Xilitu Zhao. Xilitu means Holy Seat in
Tibetan and Zhao means temple in Mongolian.
Wutasi,
also called Jinggangzuo Sheli Baota, has five small square-shaped dagobas on its
top. The most valuable stone cutting is the
one carved on the northern wall. It is the only astronomical map annotated in
Mongolian ever discovered in the world.
3. Wanbuhuayanjingta – Dayaowenhua
The Wanbu Huayanjing Pagoda,
15 km east of the city, is by far the most exquisite one kept today dating from
the Liao Dynasty (907-1125). The historical site of "Dayao" culture that
occurred 500,000 years ago is located 20km east of Hohhot.
4. Inner Mongolia Museum
Located at the center of downtown Hohhot,
this museum houses a major dinosaur exhibition and examples of local cultures.
▲One day touring
1. Downtown – Helinger County
Helinger County is 40 km south of Hohhot. There are several Han Dynasty (2000
years ago) tombs with lot of culture relics and frescoes. Canyu (Tribe King)
city in Tang Dynasty (1500 years ago), ancient great wall, and the unique
natural conditions and social customs of the Loess Plateau.
2. Downtown – Tuoketuo County – Yellow River
Tuoketuo County is located 70 km southwest of Hohhot, and it is located the
ancient city of Yunzhong (500-700 years ago), and the Yellow River passes by the
Tuoketuo town. You may also visit the dairy villages and farmhouses.
3. Downtown – Xilamuren
Xilamuren,
meaning "Yellow River" in Mongolian, is located 100 kilometers north of Hohhot.
Xilamuren Steppe, commonly known as Taihe, got its name from the Puhui Temple, a
Lama temple built in the Qing Dynasty near the Xilamuren River. Constructed in
1769 during the reign of Emperor Qianlong, Puhui Temple was initially a resort
of the Sixth Panchen Lama of Xilitu of Hohhot. With engraved beams and pictured
purlins, the temple appears quite splendid. Xilamuren Steppe, a typical example
on the plateau, is covered by green grass and fresh flowers every summer and
autumn. You will enjoy typical Mongolia food, Mongolia sports, and dance and
song here, and ride horses.
4. Downtown – Gegentala
Gegentala Steppe, in Mongolian means "a resort from heat". It is situated to the north of Mt. Daqing, 145 kilometers away from Hohhot. The steppe is a scenic spot supported both by the Natural
Tourist Bureau and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. You will be truly
astonished by the remarkable beauty of the natural scenery on the steppe. The
herdsmen and their families who enjoy sharing knowledge of their customs and
habits will also welcome you. Furthermore, you can have a good time horseback
riding or experiencing a pleasure trip on a camel. Meanwhile you might get a
chance to take in a Mongolian wrestling match or horse race.
▲Two days touring
1. Hohhot
– Sing Sand – Engebei – Genghis Khan tomb
The total trip will be around 700km. The
trip will go to Sing Sand via Baotou (the largest city in Inner Mongolia). At
Sing Sand you will enjoy sand dune, ski on sand dunes, camel riding; then, go to
Engebei where there is a desert reclamation demonstration site; and then to the
Genghis Khan Mausoleum. The tour is more Mongolian than Chinese. You would set
foot on this charming piece of land, where Genghis Khan started out to create
the largest nation which ever existed in human history. Meet and talk to the
descendents of Genghis Khan and worship before his Great Mausoleum, trying to
recall the glory of Mongol Empire.
■Cultural activities:
During the conference, the Hohhot City
Government and the Inner Mongolia Government will organize one concert. The
famous Inner Mongolia Song and Dance Group will be invited to perform.
Visiting factories, dairy processing
factories, a cashmere mill, schools, universities, research institutes,
farmhouses and herder houses can be arranged according to interests.
INTRODUCTION TO THE
GRASSLAND RESOURCES OF CHINA
China has one of the largest areas of
grassland in the world. China’s grasslands include over 399 millions ha, making
up 5.86% of the global grassland area, and 42.05% of total Chinese territory.
This is 3.12 times its cultivated area, and 2.28 times its forestry area.
China’s grasslands are located in the East part of Euro-Asian Steppe, and mainly
natural grassland maintaining the natural view of primeval grassland at present.
The types of grassland vary significantly from place to place because it spreads
over a so vast an area that it covers different climate zones
including the tropical, the subtropical, the temperate zone, and the Frigid
Zone. Additionally, the great diversity of topography and landscape, the various
distances to the sea, and human activities have contributed to the grasslands
diversity and complexity, which is not common in the world. These grasslands can
be classified into 18 categories, 21
subcategories, and 813 groups according to the Grassland Classification System
of China. Each category, and even group, has its own unique characteristics of
climate, soil, vegetation, and productivity. The methods and strategies of
management and utilization differ greatly from one to the other.
Most of the grasslands are distributed in
the north and western areas of China where the continental climate is dominantly
characterized by dry and cold weather. There is only 70 million ha of vegetated
mountain and hill areas in the middle and the south of China, among which a few
areas are originally small-scale grasslands in high alpine zones, the rest
resulting from deforestation. Both types of the alpine grasslands have different
characteristics from those in the north of China. In general, the categories of
the grasslands in China change from its center: Inner Mongolia Typical
Grassland, to the Northeast: wet and cold grassland, to the Northwest: dry, hot
desert, to the South: wet, tropical and subtropical grassland, and to the
Southwest: alpine grassland. The strips between the grasslands and the
cultivated lands are the mixture of grazing and cropping agricultural
area.
The grassland areas in China are normally
the residential areas for Ethnic Minorities, such as Mongolian, Daur, Uygur,
Kazak, Tibetan, Miao, and Bai etc. They all have their own languages and typical
cultures associated with the grasslands. We are very proud of all the minorities
who have maintained most of their culture, customs, languages, and religions up
to now. The grasslands would be able to provide sustainable resources for the
minorities in terms of living and development bases.
The grasslands in China are mainly used for
grazing. It is a traditional mode of production for many minorities. Actually,
there are 6704 edible plant species available for livestock. Of these plant
species, 45 are endemic species to China and 51 are rare and endangered species.
Some of them provide traditional Chinese herbal medicine, some play a very
important role in ecosystems, and some have potential economic values. There are
more than 600 species and varieties of livestock grazed on the grasslands,
including horses, goats, camels, and yaks, of which the numbers of individuals
rank the first, respectively, in the world. The resources of both plants and
animals not only belong to China but also contribute to the whole world. The
grasslands play a very important role in the global ecosystem due to the
geophysical location of China. For example, they can conserve water and soil,
create fresh air, may reduce, adsorb and/or eliminate contaminants in air, water
and land.
Unfortunately, the grasslands in China are
under serious threat from desertification. Half of the grassland area has been
degraded especially in the north of China where the rate of desertification is
quicker. As a result of this, a set of negative impacts have occurred, such as
reduction of productivity and farmers’ income, more soil and water erosion,
frequent dust/sand storms, less diversity of species, change of landscape,
dieing out of the grassland culture. A lot of effort has been undertaken to
protect and recover the grasslands by the Chinese government, local authorities,
and civilians. More contributions are needed urgently to solve the complicated
environmental problems, especially the support, cooperation and participation
from the international society.
However, the Chinese government and
civilians pay more and more attention to the important role of grassland
resources in protecting the ecological environment, developing economics of
minorities’ areas, maintaining the traditional culture and customs of the
minorities, and brining about a sustainable development etc. Firstly, China’s
Western Development Strategy addresses an emphasis on improving ecological
environment and poverty alleviation of local people. Secondly, research
institutes and universities have carried out some research on grassland science.
The achievements of the research have already benefited to the development,
management, protection and utilization of grassland resources to some extent.
For instance, natural grassland protection in Inner Mongolia, development of
agriculture in Gansu Province, rehabilitation and utilization of grass-slope in
mountain areas in Yunnan Province have achieved success. Thirdly, the new
approved Grassland Protection Law of the People’s Republic of China was issued
on 1st March 2003. It will greatly help the protection and proper
utilization of grassland resources. Finally, professional education on grassland
science has made progress. More than 6000 students of grassland science have
graduated from 25 universities in China up until 2003. It is estimated that more
than 1300 students of grassland science will graduate from universities per year
after the year of 2005. They will definitely contribute to the undertakings of
the grasslands in China.
There are three typical grasslands in
China. They are Inner Mongolia Grassland, Qing – Zhang (Tibet) Plateau Alpine
Grassland and Yunnan Mountain Grassland.
Most types of the grasslands in China can
be found in the Inner Mongolia Grassland with the best-maintained natural
scenery, the most complicated ecosystem, and the most developed grassland
farming system in China. Different types of grasslands are not obviously
isolated from each other. There are 78.8 million ha utilizable area of grassland
available in Inner Mongolia, which is 67% of its total area and more than 20% of
the grassland area of China. Inner Mongolia Grassland is the home of Mongolian
and some other northern minorities who used to govern the whole of China. It has
the earliest and best managed Grassland Natural Protection Zone of China. Inner
Mongolia is the grassland research center in China. The Research Station of
Grassland Ecosystems (Chinese Academy of Sciences) and the Grassland Research
Institute (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences) are located in Hohhot,
Inner Mongolia. The first grassland department in China was founded in 1958 at
the Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. Professor Jinfeng YUN, the president
of Chinese Grassland Society, is a staff member of the College of Ecology and
Environmental Science of the university. Research in Inner Mongolia grasslands
embraces part of the global grassland research issues. The research results
could benefit to other areas in both China and the world in grassland
protection, management and utilization.
Qing-Zang (Tibet) Plateau is regarded as
the third pole of the Earth and it has an average elevation of 4500m. Therefore,
it has unique ecosystem represented by a vast area of grassland accompanied with
high mountains, lakes, rivers, and glaciers, which provide a source of the major
rivers of China.
Yunnan Mountain Grassland, so called Plant
Kingdom, is full of biodiversity with more than 15000 species of seed plants. A
lot of plants can only be found in this area in the world. Mountains that vary
from an elevation of 76m to 6740m cover most of the area. Different eco-climatic
zones are found from the foot of mountains upward with different vegetation such
as tropical forestry, subtropical forestry, dry and hot brush, coniferous
forests, broad-leaved and coniferous mixed forests, grassland, meadow,
sub-alpine meadow, alpine meadow etc. In addition, minority cultures and natural
views in this area are also very famous for tourists.
From the natural resources and
eco-environment point of view, the grasslands in China not only benefit to China
but also contribute to the whole world.
PEOPLES GOVERNMENT OF INNER MONGOLIA
AUTONOMOUS REGION
Commitment Letter
Date: August 19, 2002
To: Madam Vivien Gore Allen
International Grassland Congress
Madam Maureen Wolfson
International Rangeland Congress
Dear Madam Vivien Gore Allen and Madam
Maureen Wolfson:
The People’s Government of Inner Mongolia
Autonomous Region sincerely wish that the International Grassland/Rangeland
Congress be held in Hohhot, IMAR, China in 2008. In order to make the Congress
successful, you will be assured that the People’s Government of Inner Mongolia
Autonomous Region will provide the services, support and guarantee in terms of
communication, transportation, security and safety, hotels and congress halls as
well as the other necessary facilities.
The People’s Government of Inner Mongolia
Autonomous Region
(Sealed)
A support letter for Chinese Grassland
Society to bid for the joint meeting of International Grassland Congress and
International Rangeland Congress in Hohhot in 2008
June 13th, 2003
Dear President Yun and Chinese Grassland
Society,
Hohhot People’s Government received the
letter from Chinese Grassland Society on the bidding for the joint meeting of
International Grassland Congress and Rangeland Congress in Hohhot in 2008. We
decided that Hohhot People’s Government would give the fully support and service
for the joint meeting.
Hope you success for the
bidding.
Hohhot People’s Government
(Sealed)
A support letter for Chinese Grassland
Society to bid for the joint meeting of International Grassland Congress and
International Rangeland Congress in Hohhot in 2008
June 30th, 2003
Dear President Yun and Chinese Grassland
Society,
China owns an area of 4 billion
hm2 native grassland and various types and rich biodiversity. Due to
historical and social reasons, few abroad people know the real situation of it.
In recent years, as the fast of Chinese open pace, especially with the entering
of WTO, China began to track the pace of the world. Now, with the West
Development Policy, Grassland resources and construction have been paid a great
attention. The adjustment of agricultural structure, the change of the
cultivated land to forest and grass, the start of several national wide key
projects, such as, native forest protection, management of sand land, water and
soil conservation, etc., are also a sign of a new phase on Chinese grassland
development. To apply to host the joint meeting of IRC/IGC under this stage,
it’s just on time and has very important meaning. Our Society will fully support
the bidding and hope you success.
Chinese Agronomy Society
(Sealed)
A support letter for Chinese Grassland
Society to bid for
the joint meeting of International
Grassland Congress and International Rangeland Congress in Hohhot in
2008
June 5th, 2003
Dear President Yun and Chinese Grassland
Society,
Very glad to know Chinese Grassland Society
will apply to host a jointing meeting of IRC/IGC in 2008, we think it’s really
an important event. As every body knows, China is the second largest grassland
country. We have various types of grassland as well as rich in biodiversity.
It’s important in world grassland research. However, we never host an
international grassland congress in China. It’s really a pity. As we know,
Chinese Grassland Society has been tried, but failed. Your spirit for insisting
in application of the International Grassland/Rangeland Congress is worth to
learn. Chinese grassland science needs to track the world’s pace, while
worldwide grassland academic also need to know the grassland of China. To host
such a jointing meeting is an excellent opportunity. To achieve this goal, is a
milestone in Chinese grassland history. We Chinese Forestry Society, as your
partner, will do our best to support your bidding and wish you
success.
Chinese Forestry Society
(Sealed)
Cc: International Office, Chinese Science
and Technology Association
"Multi-functional Grasslands/Rangelands in a Changing World"
The Congress will be divided into 16
sessions, covering various aspects of resource importance, biodiversity value,
cultural merits, as well as management and utilization of grasslands/rangelands.
4.2.1 Ecology of
Grasslands/Rangelands
This session will discuss the various
ecological aspects of grassland/rangeland at scales of individual, population,
community, ecosystem and landscape.
4.2.2 Soil-Plant-Animal
Interrelationships
This session will consider the complexity
and integrity of the soil, the plants and the animals in the grassland/rangeland
ecosystem. It includes the biological, chemical and physical factors affecting
nutrient cycling, soil property, plant growth, and animal behavior under various
utilization and management systems.
4.2.3 Alternative Uses of
Grassland/Rangeland Resources
This session will examine the uses of
natural resources of grasslands/rangelands other than livestock production, such
as ecological tourism, recreation, protection of watersheds and conservation of
water supplies, harvesting medicinal plants, wildlife inhabiting, and using
grasslands as a bio-fuel sources.
4.2.4 Reclamation of Degenerated
Grasslands/Rangelands
This session will mainly deal with
disturbed ecosystems induced either directly or indirectly by human activities.
It will cover topics of causes of land degradation, technical developments in
restoration and improvement through biological and engineering
approaches.
4.2.5 Water Resources in
Grasslands/Rangelands
This session will present the latest
knowledge in the ecosystem functions of grasslands/rangelands against the
background of water resources, water erosion of soil, water quality and quantity
flows in the grasslands/rangelands.
4.2.6 Integration of Cropping and Foraging
Systems
This session is especially aimed at
enhancing sustainable development in the grassland/rangeland zones. It will
examine progress in the development of integrated livestock/crop production
systems, including environmental friendly production, use of forages in such
systems, the development of agro-silvo-pastoral production systems and other new
production systems.
4.2.7 Developing Improved forage
Plants
This session will focus on plant
improvement for both animal production and environmental protection, including
conservation, collection, evaluation of germplasm, forage plant selection and
breeding with conventional techniques for various environmental zones, use of
biotechnology in plant improvement
4.2.8 Policy Issues for
Grasslands/Rangelands
This session will examine how policy
influences the utilization, management, protection of grasslands/rangelands, and
sustainable animal production in grassland/rangeland areas.
4.2.9 Soil Fertility and Plant
Nutrition
This session will deal with issues relating
to soil quality and management, including nutrient cycling and balances in
various ecosystems, biological, chemical and physical indicators of soil health,
interactions and effects of different nutritive elements on plant growth,
treatments of waste from intensive livestock production systems.
4.2.10 Conservation of Grassland/Rangeland
Resources
This session will deal with strategies and
tools for conserving the resources of grasslands/rangelands world widely,
including the diagnosis, improvement and maintenance of grassland/rangeland
health, maintaining and enhancing biodiversity, evaluation and domestication of
rangeland plant species
4.2.11 Forage Utilization and
Conservation
This session will address advances in the
development of technology for forage processing and the control of quality for
conserved forages in various forms. Hay making, silage processing, forage
storage as well as the role of conserved forages in different production systems
will be covered to overcome the seasonality in feed supply and animal
demand.
4.2.12 Monitoring for Grassland/Rangeland
Resources
This session will examine the latest
development in land monitoring and assessment, including: classification systems
of land resources; new technology in monitoring land use; the application of
remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), expert systems and other
information technology for land resources management and assessment.
4.2.13 Seed Science and
Technology
This session will deal with herbage seed
related areas, including seed production, seed certification, seed testing, seed
storage, quality assessment and management systems, and seed marketing
systems.
4.2.14 Integrated Management of Harmful
Organisms
This session will address the progress in
integrated management of biological constraints in grassland/rangeland
ecosystems, including plant diseases, insects, rodents, weeds and harmful
plants.
4.2.15 Amenity and Conservation Turf
grasses
This session will discuss the latest
developments in turf and turf grass research and production, including turf
establishment, management, development of special turf, equipments for turf, and
assessments of turf quality.
4.2.16 Multi-Facets of
Grasslands/Rangelands
This session will explore the social,
cultural, historical and humanity aspects of grasslands/rangelands in various
development stages and localities.
The Conference will cover the following
major scientific events.
4.3.1 Plenary speeches
Inaugural and keynote speeches by invited
speakers will be arranged on the opening and closing sessions.
4.3.2 Presentation of papers
Formal sessions during the Conference will
include 2-4 invited presentations on special topics, 20-30 volunteer oral
presentations, and an unlimited number of poster papers.
4.3.3 Mid-conference tours
One day mid-conference tours will be
arranged for participants to see facilities of teaching, research, and extension
system in the vicinity of Hohhot City.
4.3.4 Pre-/post-Conference tours
Several routes of pre-/post-Conference
tours will be provided (details to be arranged).
4.3.5 Workshops
Workshops will be arranged for special
groups (e.g., youth group, people with interesting in a particular topic) during
breakings of the Conference.
4.3.6 Publications
All papers accepted by the Conference with
be compiled into the Proceedings of the XIII Conference and made into CD.
●Conference
Scientific Committee set up by xx, 20xx;
●First
circular of invitation to participate and call for abstract sent out by xx,
20xx;
●Second
circular of call for paper and Instructions for authors send out by xx,
20xx;
●Closing of
paper submission and expert penal review of papers by xx. 20xx;
●Acceptance
of paper and invitation for oral speaking send out by xx, 20xx;
●Program
arrangement drafted by xx, 20xx;
●Confirmation of presentations by xx, 20xx;
●Conference
program and Collections of abstracts printed out by xx, 20xx;
The Chinese Grassland
Society
The Chinese Grassland Society is the main
forum in the People’s Republic of China for those interested in science,
development and economics of grassland and animal production. Membership is open
to all such persons who are interesting in grassland science and there are about
3000 members. There are 10 sub-professional groups divided according to people’s
interesting areas. A council of nineteen members, with a President and nine
Vice-presidents, governs the society.
The Society is a main channel for academic
exchanging, main agency for technology extension, an assistance and advisor for
the government. It’s also a bridge between the government and grassland workers.
It’s a warm home for all the grassland people.
The Society was founded in Beijing in 1979
by a group of specialists, professors, researchers and government officers who
were interested in grassland. A suggestion on grassland work was put forward to
the central government. The rulers of Chinese Grassland Society were approved in
this meeting.
In the early years of the Society, member’s
interests were centered mainly on the grass plant and sward but in later decades
both the subjects discussed and the range of activities of the Society were
extended outside the direct subject of grassland management. In particular,
increasing attentions were devoted to the animal in the grass sward complex. It
was recognized that good grassland husbandry is intimately associated with good
livestock husbandry.
The Society organizes a number of
conferences each year. It also arranges visits to research centers and selected
rangeland in China. Proceedings are available at all conferences and are
published in an Annual Journal, available free to members. The Society has close
working relationships with the Japanese Grassland Society, the Russian Grassland
Society, the Mongolia grassland Society, the European Grassland Federation and
the International Grassland Congress, etc.
The Society has organized a number of
International Meetings in China, such as:
●August 16—20，1993， International Conference on Grassland
Resources，Hohhot
●July 17—20，2001，International Grassland Conference, Hailaer，Inner Mongolia
●May 20—24, 2002, China
International Grassland Conference, Beijing
Ⅵ JOINT MEETING OF THE INTERNATIONAL
RANGELAND CONGRESS AND THE INTERNATIONAL GRASSLAND CONGRESS
– JULY/AUGUST, 2008
The bid to host a joint meeting of the
International Rangeland Congress and the International Grassland Congress to be
held in China has been organized by a Committee from the Chinese Grassland
Society. The Congress itself, its related mid-congress tours, as well as pre-
and post-congress tours and workshops will have an organizational structure that
is outside of and in addition to the Chinese Grassland Society.
6.1.Steering committee (7
persons)
Seven people from the different agencies
will be responsible for the committee, i.e.
Vice – Minister, Ministry of Agriculture of
China
President and Vice President of Chinese
Grassland Society
Vice – President of Chinese Science and
Technology Association
Vice Governor of the Government of Inner
Mongolia Autonomous Region
Mayor of Hohhot Government.
President of Inner Mongolia Agricultural
University
The steering committee is responsible for
the coordination, financial and management of the Congress.
6.2.Bid Preparing Group
There are 5 people in charge of the bidding
preparation:
President, vice president and general
secretary of the Chinese Grassland Society.
President and vice president of Inner
Mongolia Agricultural University.
6.3.Executive Committee (15
people)
An Executive Committee will do the daily
management of the Congress. These are as follows:
6.3.1 Program Committee:
A group of 3 will be in charge of this
committee:
Secretary and Deputy Secretary of the
Chinese Grassland Society, Director of the Science and Technology, Department of
Grassland Science, Inner Mongolia Agriculture University.
The committee is responsible for the
meeting preparations, field tour organizations etc.
6.3.2 Scientific committee
Two Vice presidents of Chinese Grassland
Society will be in charge of the paper review and publication.
6.3.3 Congress Secretary
The daily management during the bidding
preparation period and the congress meetings, registration, and information,
etc.
Secretary and 2 Deputy Secretaries of the
Chinese Grassland Society.
Director of Publication Office of Inner
Mongolia Agriculture University
6.3.4 Financial group
A Vice-President and the Director of
Financial Office of Inner Mongolia will be in charge of the budget, daily
financial management and audit.
.
6.3.5 Liaison
Logistics service (Accommodation, Vehicle) arrangements,
and support of all kinds.
This will in charge by the following: –
Chinese Grassland Society (Vice President)
Inner Mongolia Agricultural University
(Vice-President)
Chinese Science and Technology Association (Vice
Chairman)
Hohhot City Government (Vice Mayor)
CONTRACT AND ADDRESS
Prof. Yun Jinfeng,
President of Chinese Grassland Society
Phone: 86-471-4317724
Fax: 86-471-4317724
Email: csgrass@public.hh.nm.cn
yunjinfeng@vip.sina.com
Mobile: 13947154041
Dr. Nan Zhibiao,
Gansu Ecology Research Institution
Phone:86—931—8661047
Fax 86—931—8661047
E—mail nanzb@public.lz.gs.cn
Mobile: 13609383531
Zhou He,
China Agricultural University,
Phone: 86—010—62891666
Fax 86—010—62892666
E—mail csgrass@public.bta.net.cn
Mobile 13910219564
Mi Fugui,
College of Ecology and Environmental
Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University
Phone: 86-471-4317724
Fax: 86-471-4317724
Mobile: 13087104656
Email: csgrass@public.hh.nm.cn
Some sponsors and potential sponsors for
the conference have been acquired for the expenses of the conference according
to their interests, geographic location and their involvement in the
agricultural industries.
The plenary and closing Congress sessions will be held at Inner
Mongolia University Gymnasium, and the concurrent sessions will be held at the
Government Conference Hall, Xincheng Hotel or Inner Mongolia Agricultural
University Gymnasium, Hohhot.
The Inner Mongolia University Gymnasium is
located on the university campus; the construction area is 8300m2,
and 2000m2 available area. There are chairmen place, three sides of
fixed seats and video/audio/translation system in the gymnasium, which can hold
2999 participants.
The outside of Inner Mongolia University
Gymnasium
The inside of Inner Mongolia University
Gymnasium
Located in Xincheng District in Hohhot,
Inner Mongolia University is close to several Hotels, such as Xincheng, Phoenix,
Inner Mongolia. It is about 12Km to get to Hohhot Airport.
Located in the center of Hohhot, Inner
Mongolia Government Conference Hall occupies 2ha in area and let 1403
participants to have meeting at the same time. There are 12 assembly rooms and
the capacities vary from 80 to 200.
Inner Mongolia Government Conference
Hall
Exhibition Place in Government Conference
Hall
All the assembly rooms can be used as
different session workshop places. Government Conference Hall is near the two
five-star hotels, the Xincheng, the Inner Mongolia, and the other three and
four-star hotels, such as The Yitai, Bingyuan. The Hall is about 15km from
Hohhot Airport. We will also use the conference rooms, computer/communication,
and catering facilities for the concurrent sessions in the Hall (including post
place and commercial exhibition). The Hall will be reconstructed and decorated
for celebrating the 60th anniversary of Inner Mongolia Autonomous
Region in 2003.
Located in the west campus, Inner Mongolia
Agricultural University Gymnasium can hold 1900 participants, which is about
5300m2 construction area and 1500m2 available area. There
are chairmen place and one side of fixed seats in the opposite side with
different video/audio facilities. Inner Mongolia Agricultural University is
located in Saihan District in Hohhot, which was built in 1952. The campus is
close to many hotels, such as Xincheng Hotel, Phoenix Hotel, Bingyue Hotel and
is 11km to go to Hohhot Airport.
Inner Mongolia Agricultural University
Gymnasium
7.2Accommodation and
Conference Facilities
Hohhot has a vast selection of
accommodation of a very high standard, which will suit all requirements. The
region is proud of its traditional heritage, and clean industry, offering all
the facilities you would expect.
There are approximately 3,156 rooms, and
6,214 beds found in hotels, with sweeping views, intimate guesthouses and quaint
country lodges.
|
Inner Mongolia Hotel***** |
350 rooms |
780RMB/standard room |
|
Xincheng Hotel***** |
300rooms |
600 RMB/standard room |
|
Caoyuanmingzhu Hotel**** |
186rooms |
560 RMB/standard room |
|
Yitai Hotel**** |
75rooms |
640 RMB/standard room |
|
Jinsui Hotel**** |
70rooms |
450 RMB/standard room |
|
Bingyue Hotel**** |
200rooms |
560 RMB/standard room |
|
Phoenix Hotel**** |
350rooms |
560 RMB/standard room |
|
Zhaojun Hotel**** |
250 rooms |
500 RMB/standard room |
|
Mandula Hotel*** |
250rooms |
300 RMB/standard room |
|
Post Hotel*** |
150rooms |
270 RMB/standard room |
|
Anhua Hotel*** |
120rooms |
280 RMB/standard room |
|
Bayantala Hotel*** |
408rooms |
200 RMB/standard room |
|
Airport Hotel*** |
122rooms |
240 RMB/standard room |
|
Hohhot Hotel*** |
325rooms |
260 RMB/standard room |
★★★★★Hotel
Xincheng Hotel: A garden-like hotel located in the center of Hohhot, is the first
five-star hotel in Inner Mongolia.
Since its founding in 1958, Xincheng Hotel
has already welcomed hundreds and thousands of domestic and foreign guests.
Among them are state leaders, government officials, and business people, all of
whom have been impressed by the service here.
The Hotel is equipped with 300 rooms, 15
multi-functional meeting halls, 15 banquet halls, Chinese and western
restaurants, and bars etc. In the Health Club, you may enjoy such modern
facilities as 18-lane AMF bowling, and international standard tennis courts,
indoor swimming pool, sauna saloon, weight room, billiard, indoor golf, table
tennis, etc.
Inner Mongolia Hotel: Inner Mongolia Hotel built in 1982 lies in Hohhot, the capital of
Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It is the first international three-star
business hotel in our region, and the rebuilding of it according to
international standard of five-star hotel has been completed in 2001. The Inner
Mongolia Hotel has all kinds of guest rooms, totally 350, and 700 beds,
including advanced business facilities. The business center also provides good
service in many ways. The hotel holds 5 luxurious restaurants where you can
enjoy Chinese traditional style, western style and Islamic style food.
There are Health Club and International
Conference Center. The conference center has advanced equipment. Total 8
different meeting rooms that can hold 15-350 persons meeting. All the conference
room has advanced audio equipment and translation system.
★★★★Hotel
There are 6 four-star Hotels in Hohhot;
each hotel has various kinds of guest rooms, such as deluxe suites, economic
suites and standard rooms. There are also Business Center, Conference Hall,
Lobby Bar and meeting rooms, which can hold 30 to 300 participants.
★★★Hotel
There are also some three–star hotels and
youth hotels to be selected for different requirements.
7.3 Distance
All the hotels are approximately 5-10
minutes drive to Inner Mongolia University, the Government Conference Hall and
the Inner Mongolia Agricultural University.
7.4 Hospital
There are 8 large hospitals the downtown of
Hohhot, such as Inner Mongolia Hospital, Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical
College, Railway Hospital, Hohhot Hospital, Woman and Children Hospital, etc. in
Hohhot. They are all equipped well and available to cure general illness. Most
of them are located in the center of Hohhot.
Inner Mongolia Traveling Agency will be in
charge of transportation in Hohhot and field tours.
International Rangeland/Grassland Congress,
Hohhot, June/July2008, Budget Projection
Total estimated expenses for hosting the
joint meeting of the International Rangeland Congress and the International
Grassland Congress in Hohhot is RMB 5,250,335 (Table 1). This estimate is based
on an anticipate attendance of approximately 1000 international delegates and
1000 domestic delegates with 300 international associate delegates. Cost
projections also include funds required for notification of and correspondence
with potential delegates prior to the Congress. Registration fees and
sponsorship by donors will defray some of these costs while others such as costs
of Pre and Post-Congress tours will be on a full cost-recovery basis. These
tours will be based on charges through travel agencies but the organization and
coordination fees will be covered in the Congress budget. Costs of travel to and
from the Congress are not included in the budget except for a limited number of
delegates.
The total income projected is RMB5,
403,500, which is composed of registration fee and sponsorships from public and
private sectors. The registration fee is US$500 per head (300 international
delegates), and US$450 per head for early registration (600 international
delegates) and US$300 per head for students (100 delegates). The registration
fee for domestic delegate is RMB1, 000 (1000 delegates). As expected in the
table 1, there should be a surplus of RMB153, 165.
| Table 1. Budget Projection for the Congress in Hohhot – IGC/IRC | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost Estimation | Amount (RMB) |
Total by Cat. (RMB) |
|
| 1. | Initial Outlay | 200,000 | |
| SUB-TOTAL | 200,000 | ||
| 2. | Organizing Committee | ||
| Office facilities and equipment | 142,500 | ||
| Secretary to committee and secretarial service | 45,000 | ||
| Rent for office rooms | 36,000 | ||
| Organizing committee expense | 150,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 373,500 | ||
| 3. | Design and artwork | ||
| Design of congress logo | 5,000 | ||
| First announcement | 5,000 | ||
| Second announcement | 6,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 16,000 | ||
| 4. | Communication | ||
| Design of web-site | 20,000 | ||
| Internet Account | 50,000 | ||
| Internet management | 25,000 | ||
| Telephone and fax | 30,000 | ||
| Postage | 61,800 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 186,800 | ||
| 5. | Printing and production | ||
| First and second announcement | 11,200 | ||
| Newsletter bulletins | 105,000 | ||
| Envelopes | 26,250 | ||
| Handbook | 21,000 | ||
| Conference bags | 92,000 | ||
| Badge | 25,300 | ||
| Poster | 3,000 | ||
| Leaflet | 3,450 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 287,200 | ||
| 6. | Promotion | ||
| Promotion plan development | 5,000 | ||
| Implementation of promotion plan | 25,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 30,000 | ||
| 7. | Translation Service | ||
| Pre-congress translation and interpretation | 35,000 | ||
| Professional simultaneous interpretation during plenary | 20,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 55,000 | ||
| 8. | Rent for audio-visual equipment | 37,500 | |
| SUB-TOTAL | 37,500 | ||
| 9. | Venue | ||
| Plenary in IMU Gym | 10,000 | ||
| Front hall for registration in IMGCH and XCH Hotel | 14,400 | ||
| 15 Meeting rooms in IMGCH and XCHH for discussion groups | 128,000 | ||
| IMGCH Exhibition Hall (400M2,Glass) | 21,600 | ||
| Decoration flag. Flower and etc. | 50,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 224,000 | ||
| 10. | Social Program | ||
| Pre-congress tour organization | 45,000 | ||
| Post-congress tour organization | 60,000 | ||
| Organizing fee for field trip | 15,000 | ||
| Organizing fee for Mid-tour | 20,000 | ||
| Opening reception | 30,000 | ||
| Banquet | 460,000 | ||
| Payment to artist team in Mongolia Cultural Night | 25,000 | ||
| Secretary service | 144,000 | ||
| Refreshments | 24,000 | ||
| Photo for all delegates | 115,000 | ||
| Medical service | 20,000 | ||
| Security service | 30,000 | ||
| Food for Volunteer | 48,000 | ||
| Other expenses | 20,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 1,056,000 | ||
| 11. | Transport | ||
| Rent for bus | 120,000 | ||
| Rent for Van | 48,000 | ||
| Rent for Car | 36,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 204,000 | ||
| 12. | Publishing cost of proceedings | ||
| Editing fee | 120,000 | ||
| ISBN fee | 10,000 | ||
| Publishing cost | 80,000 | ||
| CD edition production cost CD | 66,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 276,000 | ||
| 13. | Subsidy | ||
| Subsidized travel expenses for some less developed country delegates | 600,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 600,000 | ||
| 14. | Insurance and charge | ||
| Property damage | 100,000 | ||
| Audit | 20,000 | ||
| Bank charges | 35,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 155,000 | ||
| 15. | Professional conference Organizers fee | ||
| Administration fee for full delegates | 400,000 | ||
| Administration fee for accompanying person | 50,000 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 450,000 | ||
| 16. | Levy of Continuing Committee | 189,290 | |
| SUB-TOTAL | 189,290 | ||
| 17. | Physical contingency | ||
| 10% for unforeseen items 10% | 415,100 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 415,100 | ||
| 18. | Price contingency | ||
| Price contingency based on annual inflation rate 2% | 494,945 | ||
| SUB-TOTAL | 494,945 | ||
| TOTAL ESTIMATED COST | 5,250,335 | ||
| Financial plan | |||
| Registration fee | |||
| International delegates | 3,703,500 | ||
| Domestic delegates | 1,000,000 | ||
| Governmental commitment | |||
| Ministry of Agriculture | |||
| Ministry of Science and Technology | |||
| Inner Mongolia government | 400,000 | ||
| International Organization | |||
| ESCO of UN | |||
| FAO | |||
| UNDP | |||
| WFP | |||
| WB | |||
| ADB | |||
| CIDA | |||
| USDA | |||
| Others | |||
| Professional societies | |||
| IRC | |||
| IGC | |||
| Sponsorship | |||
| Private sectors | 300,000 | ||
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INCOME | 5,403,500 | ||
| TOTAL ESTIMATED SURPLUS | 153,165 | ||
- IMGCH: Inner Mongolia Government Conference Hall.
- IMU: Inner Mongolia University.
- Total delegates: 2300
- International delegates: 1000
- International associated delegates: 300
- Domestic Delegates: 1000
- Total to be notified (International): 2000
- Total to be notified (domestic): 1500
- The exchange rate is RMB8.23 to US$1.