WildLandscapes is thrilled to announce the election of two new members to its Board of Directors: William Ambrose and Krista Mitchell Cornell. These distinguished individuals bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and fresh perspectives to our board. Their induction marks the beginning of a transformative chapter for WildLandscapes, heralding a period of enhanced clarity and focus in our mission. Their collective understanding across different sectors promises to propel WildLandscapes into a phase of timely growth and development.
As we embrace this exciting stage, we reaffirm our dedication to our core values and to the vision that has always guided us, now amplified by the strengths of our new board members.
Kenya's remarkable success in conserving critically endangered black rhinos has led to a population increase from 240 in 1984 to 966 today, making Kenya the third-largest rhino population in Africa. To protect these rhinos from multiple threats, including poaching and habitat loss, a stable population of 2,000 is essential. To accommodate this growth, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is conducting a major rhino relocation, moving 21 black rhinos to Loisaba Conservancy, marking their return after a 50-year absence due to poaching.
As 2023 draws to a close, we are thrilled to highlight a year of substantial growth and achievements in our ongoing mission to conserve vital ecosystems. Collaboration has been the defining theme, underlining our belief that progress is rooted in partnerships. Our diverse network of partners, including individuals, non-profit organizations, government agencies, donors, and Tribal communities, has been instrumental in advancing our mission. Their wide-reaching influence and our strategic partnerships have amplified our impact.
In collaboration with our valued partner, Overberg Renosterveld Conservation Trust, we have successfully protected the rare Renosterveld by acquiring the 'Plaatjieskraal' farm. Spanning 1,425 acres, this expansion doubles the size of the existing Haarwegskloof Reserve. Placing the farm into conservation safeguards the largest remaining area of one of the world’s most critically endangered and biodiverse ecosystems. Since Renosterveld is deemed "100% irreplaceable," this farm acquisition is a triumph for conservation.
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for environmental stewardship? WildLandscapes International is inviting committed professionals to become part of our Board of Directors.
Get a first-hand look at some of our successes in our 2022 Annual Report. Reflecting on the past year, we're excited to share the strides we've made in conservation efforts across the globe. From safeguarding endangered species to empowering communities, our work has had a significant impact. Prepare to dig into our most exciting issue yet.
For World Elephant Day reflection, Vanessa Stephen, our Director of International Operations, shares her profound experiences with elephants and the urgent call to action for their protection. Join us in exploring Vanessa's insights into these magnificent creatures, the devastating impact of poaching, and the vital efforts to conserve them.
WildLanscapes International united key players in Kenyan conservation for high-level meetings in Washington, D.C. this past June. This collaboration marks a milestone in our ongoing conservation efforts, as it is the first time our partners have come together as a coalition to lobby congress.
Our goal: advocate for increased U.S. financial support for African conservation, with a special focus on creating a contiguous habitat for Eastern black rhino in Laikipia.
WildLandscapes Director of International Operations, Vanessa Stephen, recently travelled to North-eastern India for a site visit to an exciting ongoing project and to potentially seek new opportunities. This area is an incredible biodiversity hotspot, boasting an impressive array of over 376 plant species, 106 non-timber forest products, and 200+ bird and 90+ butterfly species recorded. It is also home to a massive diversity of larger wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, and greater one-horned rhinoceros.
WildLandscapes' ambitious "Green Heart of the Everglades" project is one step closer to completion, with the first phase of the 11,141-acre land acquisition nearing public ownership. The site, which is set to become a vital piece in the jigsaw puzzle of south Florida's Greater Everglades Ecosystem, is already proving to be a hotbed of biodiversity.
