Jill:
Even though I've had the privilege of hearing you tell me this story in person, reading about it - particulary the part about finger jams in fish holes in order to crawl out against the current - gave me knots in my stomach.
Was this risk worth the reward to science? Ultimately, the risk taker has to decide that, as his or her own life is often on the line.
Have we, as a society, benefited from risk takers acting in the name of science. Absolutely.
When you compare the value to society of those who risk their lives doing "science at the extreme," to those who are simply putting themselves to the test by pitting their bodies against nature for the pure adrenalin thrill of it, the former is far more enriching than the latter.
You should check out Peter Lane Taylor's book "Scientists at the Extreme" for some other great stories about people risking their lives in the name of conservation and science.
Good work and I look forward to following more of your adventures!
Russell
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