Grant Logan , Rich Hawryluk , and Mike Mauel , Co-Chairs of the 1999 Fusion Energy Sciences Summer Study, note that the Proceedings "are unique if for no other reason than the open and inclusive process by which they were generated." They further state, "If there exists any reason to call the 1999 Fusion Summer Study a success, then it is due to three causes. First and most importantly, over 300 individuals from 12 countries attended the two-week workshop. Although there were occasions for enjoying renewal of contact with colleagues, for the most part, the working days were long and the discussions were intense. Perhaps the one quantitative evidence of our work is the number of xerox copies (90,000) and transparencies (1,200) consumed. We feel sincerely grateful for the hard work and perseverance of the Snowmass participants. Secondly, the Summer Study benefited immeasurably from wide institutional support. We are particularly grateful for the endorsements of the American Physical Society and the Fusion Energy Division of the American Nuclear Society. Finally, over 55 outstanding scientists and engineers served as working group convenors and subtopical group leaders. These colleagues labored over many months to develop the technical agenda for the Summer Study. They also served in vital roles as community leaders during the preparation of the final working group summaries."

The Co-Chairs state, "The Proceedings present a lasting record of the observations of a large group of fusion experts of the opportunities to meet the challenges facing the development of fusion energy. However, the Proceedings do not capture important intangible outcomes. The Summer Study demonstrated that the broad fusion program can work together as partners for a common goal. The Summer Study gave voice to a very large number of diverse and individual scientists and engineers. It strengthened their involvement and, consequently, their commitment to the future direction of their fields. We sincerely thank you for your help in the preparation of the Proceedings, and, in the words of Hermann Grunder, your contributions towards building "an environment for breaking down barriers and initiating an intellectual dialogue driven by science and fueled by enthusiasm."

The Proceedings will also be available soon on CDRom. Contact one of the Co-Chairs for details.