Planning

The planning phase was complicated by the initial belief by the Program Manager that the problems of international cooperation would force cancellation of the program. Accordingly, I accepted a 3 month fellowship in Japan from December 1987 through February 1988. Further, I was committed to attend the IUGG General Assembly in Vancouver, which clashed with the Tekapo Training Week. To the credit of all concerned, the Antarctic field programme did not suffer, and if anything, the personal relationships and understanding of the problems were improved all round. However, I remain convinced that regular attendance at Tekapo, and the event briefing session is essential in normal circumstances.