Not only does Roy Stein head the stellar AEL, he is a key member of the United States/Canada Great Lakes Fisheries Commission (GLFC), appointed by President Clinton in 1998. Despite the importance of the Commission's work, few people know much about it. Here are the basics:

GLFC profile:

• Only binational Commission on Great Lakes
• Established, 1955, to manage/eradicate Great lakes sea lamprey populations-focus: leading-edge scientific research (latest: pheromone research)
• Mission: coordinate, formulate and drive binational fisheries research; advise governments on common issues, publish informational/technical reports
• Facilitate effective joint management strategies among sub-national governments making Great Lakes management policy
• Four American, four Canadian Commissioners, one U.S. alternate; U.S. Commissioners: six-year presidential appointments, Canadian commissioners, appointed by Privy Council: no term limits

Stein, now Commission Vice-Chair, is always willing to talk enthusiastically about the work of the Commission; it is much more difficult to get him to talk about his pivotal role in Commission affairs.

Marc Gaden, GLFC Communications Officer, who has accompanied Stein on several Wash., D.C. trips, is not so reticent. He says, "Roy actively maintains the Commission's profile; making sure Congress and State Department staff are aware of its importance. This communication with those who fund the GLFC is reflected in a steadily increasing budget. He does a great job of educating people!"

Commissioners need strong scientific, diplomatic, management, policy-making, communications and advocacy skills. "Roy has these skills in abundance plus total commitment to fighting for the long-term biological health of the resource," Gaden says. "He keeps up on issues like no one else. He's intensely involved; always willing to visit Washington, talk to various groups and to the media. We hope to keep him; he is a fantastic asset to the Commission."

Stein is eligible for reappointment when his term expires April, 2004. If reappointed, he would become Chair, July 2004.

-S.R.