Hohhot, May 2003

CONTENTS

I     INVITATION LETTER

II    GENERAL INFORMATION

•  China in Brief

        Inner Mongolia in Brief

        Hohhot in Brief

        Getting to China and Hohhot

 Grasslands of China

III   LETTERS OF SUPPORT

IV   SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM

 Main Theme

 Session Themes

 Activities

 Time Schedule

V    OUR COMMITMENT

VI   JOINT MEETING

 Organization Structure

 Contacts

 Sponsorship

VII  FACILITIES

 Place

 Accommodation

VIII BUDGET

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

yunjinfeng@vip.sina.com

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.

Highway: There is an express highway from Hohhot to Beijing and several national highways that link Hohhot with other major cities in China.

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.

There are more than 20 hospitals in the downtown area of Hohhot including two SOS centers.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Currency is Renminbi (RMB¥) Yuan. The exchange rate is $US1.0D=RMB8.23Yuan.

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.

All leading credit cards are accepted in major cities, ATMs are available in the major hotels, shopping malls and department stores.

8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Located at the center of downtown Hohhot, this museum houses a major dinosaur exhibition and examples of local cultures.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 1^st 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.

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)

June 13^th, 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)

June 30^th, 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)

June 5^th, 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

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.

This session will discuss the various ecological aspects of grassland/rangeland at scales of individual, population, community, ecosystem and landscape.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

This session will examine how policy influences the utilization, management, protection of grasslands/rangelands, and sustainable animal production in grassland/rangeland areas.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Inaugural and keynote speeches by invited speakers will be arranged on the opening and closing sessions.

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.

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.

Several routes of pre-/post-Conference tours will be provided (details to be arranged).

Workshops will be arranged for special groups (e.g., youth group, people with interesting in a particular topic) during breakings of the Conference.

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 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:

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.

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.

An Executive Committee will do the daily management of the Congress. These are as follows:

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.

Two Vice presidents of Chinese Grassland Society will be in charge of the paper review and publication.

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

A Vice-President and the Director of Financial Office of Inner Mongolia will be in charge of the budget, daily financial management and audit.

.

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)

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

Mobile: 13609383531

Zhou He,

China Agricultural University,

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

mfgui@yahoo.com.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 60^th 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

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.

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.

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.

There are also some three–star hotels and youth hotels to be selected for different requirements.

All the hotels are approximately 5-10 minutes drive to Inner Mongolia University, the Government Conference Hall and the Inner Mongolia Agricultural University.

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

8. The exchange rate is RMB8.23 to US$1.