DURING the 2013 meetings of the ASIH Executive Committee and the Publications Policy Committee (PPC), it became clear that there is nearly consensus support throughout the society for online early publication of papers that have been accepted for publication in Copeia. The Publication Policy Committee discussed this issue thoroughly at the 2013 meeting, and this topic has been in discussion for several years. I have had many discussions with (1) the staff at Allen Press and (2) with Production Editor Katie Smith and Figure Editor W. Leo Smith. It has become clear that the costs associated with online early publishing are minimal.
With the consent, encouragement, and support of President William Matthews and Executive Committee, and following the consensus support of the PPC, beginning with issue 2014(1), Copeia will begin publishing online early. Accepted manuscripts will be published online as soon as a production ready proof is prepared. This...