Organizational Records

Articles of Incorporation

Download in PDF format here: Articles of Incorporation.

Bylaws

As required by California state law, PSG has an approved set of Bylaws. Download version 9.1 (2016) in PDF format here: PSG Bylaws.

Disclaimer

PSG makes no warranty that: 1. the services provided by the society will meet your requirements: 2. the service will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or error free; 3. the information obtained from the use of the service will be accurate or reliable; 4. the quality of any content provided will meet your expectations; or 5. any errors in the software will be corrected. Any materials downloaded or obtained through PSG listserv is done at your own discretion and risk. You will be solely responsible for any damage to your computer system or the loss of data that results from the download of any such material. You expressly understand and agree that PSG shall not be liable to you for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or exemplary damages, including but not limited to damages for loss of profits, goodwill, use, data, or other intangible losses resulting from: 1. the use or inability to use the service; 2. unauthorized access to or alteration of your transmission; 3. statements or conduct of any third party on the service; or 4. any other matter relating to the PSG listserv service.  PSG members agree to indemnify and hold the PSG, the Executive Council and members harmless from any claim or demand including reasonable attorney’s fees, made by any third-party due to or arising out of content you submit, post, transmit, or make available through the PSG listserv service, your use of the service, your connection to the service, your violation of the terms and conditions, or your violation of the rights of others.

Diversity Statement

The Pacific Seabird Group is an all-inclusive international society of professional seabird researchers and managers dedicated to the study and conservation of seabirds and their environment. PSG is committed to making diversity a core and abiding strength among our membership and all of our activities including programs, events, publishing, and professional development. Achieving diversity requires an enduring commitment to inclusion that must find full expression in the culture, values, norms and behaviors of the PSG. We support diversity in all of its forms, encompassing but not limited to age, disability status, economic circumstance, ethnicity, gender, race, religion and sexual orientation.

Handbook

The Pacific Seabird Group’s Handbook is a guide to their operations for Officers, Regional Representatives, Committee Coordinators, and Annual Meeting Organizers. The handbook is to help familiarize them with their responsibilities and those of their colleagues with regard to PSG operations and procedures. Also in the Handbook are the instructions for running the Annual Meeting and much, much more. Download in PDF format here: PSG Handbook.

IRS Tax Exemption Letter

The Pacific Seabird Group is recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization and is tax exempt. Download in PDF format a copy of a letter from the IRS stating our tax-exemption here: IRS Tax Exemption Letter.

Photo Use

All the photos on the PSG website and social media accounts have been generously donated by PSG members voluntarily, and without compensation. The PSG will always strive to uphold the highest standards while using photographs and video imagery voluntarily provided by photographers. Contact the PSG Communications Committee Coordinator before using any of the photos for non-PSG or commercial purposes. Email communications@pacificseabirdgroup.org.

Download in PDF format here: PSG Photo Release Form. Send to communications@pacificseabirdgroup.org.

Policies & Procedures

The Pacific Seabird Group makes available to its members and the public its operational policies and procedures for conflict of interest, investments, and others; the year of the last update is indicated in parentheses.

Code of Conduct

The Pacific Seabird Group has developed a voluntary Code of Conduct for all members. Most non-profit organisations have a Code of Conduct (also called Code of Ethics or Code of Professional Conduct), and it is one of the policies that was recommended to PSG by an independent audit in 2012. In order to make this happen, an Ad Hoc Code of Conduct Committee was formed in 2015 at the San Jose, California, PSG Annual Meeting and, over a period of 18 months, the Committee created a draft Code of Conduct with input from the Executive Council, member’s suggestions, and advice from other organisations.

The Committee reviewed similar Codes from respected societies, organisations and government agencies in United States, Canada and Europe. A range of factors was considered including applicability across 16+ countries where members reside, diversity of member affiliations (e.g., students, academia, non-profit, government, consulting, retired), feasibility and practicality to implement and uphold. The Code elements and investigation approach were informed by examining other codes including American Ornithological Society and Society of Conservation Biology.

As is true for all PSG policies, the Code of Conduct may undergo review in the future and be revised, as needed. For more information, please visit the Code of Conduct Committee Page.

Tax Returns

Non-profit Disclosure: The Pacific Seabird Group files its required information and tax returns (IRS Form 990) with the IRS each year and makes them available to the public to evaluate how it operates. IRS Form 990 ensures that non-profits disclose any potential conflicts of interest, compensation of Board members, and other details related to financial accountability. Please see below for PSG’s Form 990 from 2007 to present. Contact the Treasurer if you have any questions (treasurer@pacificseabirdgroup.org).