Steve Stawarz’s Post

2023 was a remarkable year for the conservation of U.S. public lands and waters. In the Biden administration’s first three years, it has conserved—or is in the process of conserving—more than 24 million acres of public lands across the country and has channeled more than $18 billion toward conservation projects. About half of that land—more than 12.5 million acres—was conserved in 2023 alone. Many of our partners have been able to tap into these resources to increase the pace and scale of their impact (check out our recent newsletter for a few highlights). And in addition to protecting valuable landscapes, the administration is doing so with Indigenous-led conservation at the forefront, with co-stewardship agreements increasing from 20 to 200 in 2023. Read more of the Center for American Progress's findings here: https://lnkd.in/gS9qZZuA

This article spotlights the collaborative and two-decade-long Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP). KCP is part of a nationwide shift towards landscape-level and holistic conservation efforts. Also mentioned is the Center-commissioned paper _Build Back a Better National Landscape Conservation Framework_, which urges governments to provide more support for large landscape conservation endeavors such as the KCP. https://lnkd.in/gk8zpYnS

CSIRO Why conservation is a collective effort. Conservation is a long-term effort requiring teamwork and sustained dedication, sometimes across generations. The efforts of these collaborative projects, programs, and examples go much deeper and further than the brief examples shared. With your continued support, we hope to achieve many more wins for conservation. Learn more about how we’re helping maintain the integrity of our environments.  https://lnkd.in/g2EizcDV

Fragmentation is one of the nation’s most urgent conservation challenges. As land is sub-divided, so are its natural resources: clean air, clean water, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, biodiversity and more. Smaller units become progressively less productive until they finally lose their connectivity to the larger ecosystem and cease to function. In this interview with Land.com Network, the Alliance vice president of conservation initiatives, Erin Heskett, answers five questions about land trusts and their work to prevent land fragmentation. This is a great read for those interested in learning about how land trusts work with landowners to keep land intact in perpetuity.

Did you know? Across the United States, over 61 million acres of land have been preserved through conservation easements, protecting the unique ecological value of critical habitat (and providing tax benefits for landowners). Valuations for conservation easements follow specific rules - learn more about this unique type of planet-saving option! https://lnkd.in/ePbQiRPe

Landcare NSW and BCT Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) Project Update https://bit.ly/3GQWeUp In New South Wales, private land conservation is a vital strategy for enhancing biodiversity, filling critical gaps not covered by public reserves. It enhances habitat connectivity, safeguards diverse ecosystems, and involves local landowners directly in conservation efforts. This approach not only supports wildlife and habitat protection but also promotes sustainable land management and climate change mitigation through innovative practices. By integrating private lands into conservation strategies, NSW leverages a broader, more inclusive approach to preserving its unique biodiversity, engaging communities, and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. The Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) Project is an initiative by Landcare NSWand Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) aimed at advancing conservation efforts on private lands. In this update, we provide highlights on the project’s progress, communication plan, workplan reviews by Landcare groups, insights from a presentation by the Natural Resources Commission (NRC), and the involvement of BCT’s Regional Managers in shaping its future direction.

In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, Canadian-based Coast Funds released this report that highlights conservation finance tools that can support First Nations in achieving their stewardship and conservation goals. The report features sample conservation finance portfolios and addresses a key question facing First Nations and other governments – how can communities conserve forest ecosystems without compromising economic security?  👉 Read the report here: https://lnkd.in/gS6x4Kf9 #NIPD2024

Landcare NSW and BCT Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) Project Update https://bit.ly/3GQWeUp In New South Wales, private land conservation is a vital strategy for enhancing biodiversity, filling critical gaps not covered by public reserves. It enhances habitat connectivity, safeguards diverse ecosystems, and involves local landowners directly in conservation efforts. This approach not only supports wildlife and habitat protection but also promotes sustainable land management and climate change mitigation through innovative practices. By integrating private lands into conservation strategies, NSW leverages a broader, more inclusive approach to preserving its unique biodiversity, engaging communities, and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. The Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) Project is an initiative by Landcare NSWand Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) aimed at advancing conservation efforts on private lands. In this update, we provide highlights on the project’s progress, communication plan, workplan reviews by Landcare groups, insights from a presentation by the Natural Resources Commission (NRC), and the involvement of BCT’s Regional Managers in shaping its future direction.

Did you know? Across the United States, over 61 million acres of land have been preserved through conservation easements, protecting the unique ecological value of critical habitat (and providing tax benefits for landowners). Valuations for conservation easements follow specific rules - learn more about this unique type of planet-saving option! https://lnkd.in/ePbQiRPe

Own some land that you would like to preserve? You may want to consider working with a conservation land trust like The Conservation Foundation. They help protect sites of cultural, historical, or natural significance. #conservation #landconservation #sustainability