Locals only

This week we are spotlighting local conservation organizations that are initiating programs locally and abroad in the fight to save biodiversity, habitat and species. These are good resources for students and the community to learn about important issues and how they can become involved in conservation.

            1. RSCF

Rare Species Conservatory Foundation (RSCF), located just west of us in Loxahatchee, FL, “ is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving biodiversity through grass-roots conservation programs rooted in sound science. RSCF employs the "flagship species" concept to identify and conserve high-profile, priority species in order to leverage protection for the ecosystems they represent. Propagation and management of such flagship species, along with field-based research and habitat protection, are ultimately directed toward long-term biodiversity preservation at a regional level” (RSCF, 2012).

The dedicated staff and directors provide service to governments as well as  research and conservation organizations all over the world. Among the many successful projects spearheaded by RSCF, one notable accomplishment has been the Bongo Project. “In January, 2004, RSCF airlifted 18 captive-bred bongo antelope from the United States to the Mt. Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. This marked the first step in the recovery of the species in the wild, and began a grass-roots conservation mission in Kenya. Partners in this program include the United Nations Foundation, the Kenya Wildlife Service, White Oak Conservation Center, and many more” (RSCF, 21012).

You can read more details of the project and many more that RSCF is involved in by going to their website:  http://www.rarespecies.org/index.html

        2. South Florida Wildlands Association (SFWA)

“South Florida Wildlands Association (SFWA) was founded in March of 2010 to protect the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of the greater Everglades. SFWA is a local not-for-profit organization committed to aggressively defending what remains of one of our planet’s most unique natural areas" (SFWA, 2012). 

You can find out all about the important work they are doing to conserve the Everglades by going to their website: http://southfloridawild.org/wordpress/ . There is only one Everglades and it is the largest and most important freshwater, subtropical peat wetland in North America. Find out what can be done to help protect it. 

For a comprehensive guide to Everglades restoration: http://www.evergladesplan.org/index.aspx

References:

Image credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:TragelaphusBongo.jpg