Talk on international efforts that saved fur seals set for Sept. 20

MOULTONBOROUGH — On Thursday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. at the Loon Center in Moultonborough, the Lakes Region Chapter of the New Hampshire Audubon Society will present a program called “Club Sandwiches, Not Seals” presented by Dr. Kurk Dorsey.

Birders know the Pribilof Islands of Alaska for the chance to see Asian rarities, but there are more than birds on these remote islands. In the 19th century, millions of North Pacific Fur Seals drew hunters who wanted to sell their rich fur coats. In this illustrated talk, Kurk Dorsey of the University of New Hampshire History Department will explain how the United States led a four-nation movement to save the fur seals from extinction.

With colorful characters and deep splits about how to manage the seals, this is one of the most interesting success stories of international conservation. Dr. Dorsey is the author of “The Dawn of Conservation Diplomacy,” which examines the first three comprehensive wildlife conservation treaties in history, including the North Pacific Fur Seal Convention of 1911. His book also covers the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1916, which was the subject of a previous presentation.

The Loon Center is located on Lee's Mill Road; follow the signs on Blake Road from Route 25 near the Moultonborough Central School, or from NH Route 109 turn on to Lee Road and turn left on Lee's Mill Road.

Refreshments will be served.