Harney County is set to enhance its conservation efforts with an $18.4 million grant awarded to the High Desert Partnership (HDP) from the NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). This funding will support collaborative projects focused on tackling water scarcity, wildfire risk, and drought, bolstering the resilience of the county’s agricultural landscapes and unique wildlife habitats. With nearly 20 years of experience, HDP and its partners will implement initiatives like water conservation, wetland restoration, invasive species control, and conservation easements to support local ecosystems and communities.
WildLandscapes International is honored to receive the NLC Catalyst Fund award for our Green Heart of the Everglades project, in partnership with the Miccosukee and Seminole Tribes of Florida. This initiative secures mineral rights across 447,417 acres in Big Cypress National Preserve and Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, protecting a critical part of the Everglades and addressing historical injustices. With this funding, we’ll build a co-management framework to support Indigenous stewardship and strengthen ecological resilience in the Everglades for both nature and local communities.
We are thrilled to welcome Ian Craig as our Senior Africa Director at WildLandscapes. With over 40 years of experience, Ian is renowned for founding the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Northern Rangelands Trust, pioneering community-led conservation in Kenya. His leadership and expertise will guide our efforts to expand sustainable conservation models and protect biodiversity across Africa.
Explore our 2023 Annual Report for an inside look at the progress we’ve made in conservation over the past year. We’re proud to share how our efforts have protected critical habitats, supported endangered species, and strengthened local communities around the world. Dive in to see how we’re driving meaningful change and what’s next on the horizon.
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.
