The ECOINFORM Information Retrieval System

The general concept, structure, and methods of implementation of the ECOINFORM information retrieval system (IRS) (http://ecoinf.uran.ru/) are described using the Urals and western Siberia as model regions. The IRS is aimed at ensuring effective access to the latest information in various fields of theoretical and applied ecology, overcoming the informational isolation of research centers and state reserves in remote regions, coordinating and intensifying joint ecological studies, and integrating the fundamental science and higher-education institutions.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]