Although mediation conferences are relatively informal, the Court considers them official proceedings and requires the participation of all parties, usually through their counsel. See Pueblo of San Ildefonso v. Ridlon, 90 F.3d 423 (10th Cir. 1996). Participation in the process is mandatory; decisions regarding settlement are, of course, voluntary. Sometimes the mediation will involve discussion and resolution of issues outside the appeal or extend to individuals or groups who are not parties to the appeal. In the latter event, nonparties may be invited to participate, though obviously they are not required to do so.