Celebrating 30 Years of American Private Lands Conservation

The role of private landowners in wildlife conservation has never been more important than it is today. The father of modern game management, Aldo Leopold, was one of the first to highlight the impact of private lands on conservation in his famous book: A Sand County Almanac. He wrote eloquently about land ethics and economic strategies for stewardship. Thoughts like these laid the philosophical groundwork for government and non-governmental programs targeting working lands later in the 20th century. The 1980’s proved to be a particularly valuable decade as it saw the formation of the first U.S. Farm Bill conservation programs, developing a synergy between sustainable agriculture and conservation.

The roots of the PFW program began in the Prairie Pothole Region of Minnesota and the Dakotas, by visionary biologists from the National Wildlife Refuge System. These biologists saw the need to work with others beyond the boundaries of National Wildlife Refuges, partnering with farmers, ranchers, and many others who wanted to enhance their property for wildlife. PFW biologists provide technical and financial assistance to landowners on a voluntary basis, often balancing priorities of working landscapes and wildlife restoration. Working in the right areas and applying best available science allow conservation and sustainable agriculture to fit together like hand in glove.

Working Landscapes Regional Collaboration Workshop. Susanville, CA.

Why has this approach been so successful? A long list of variables has gone into the equation of more than 30 years of success, but none more important than PEOPLE. Achieving goals for wildlife and their habitats starts with understanding and balancing the needs of people. The core steps of restoring habitat all runs through the hands of humans. From the initial meeting with the landowner, planning, educating, executing agreements, acquiring permits, and raising funds all require decisions by people. The results are beneficial for both people and their land, as well as wildlife and their habitats.

Another key element has been the power of partnerships. Nothing the PFW program ever accomplished was done alone. We have collaborated with others from the beginning and it’s the collective skills and resources of many that ensure success.

Effective partnerships create important communication networks to address challenges and develop solutions. Challenges such as invasive species, environmental conditions, or funding reoccur over time and communication networks among partners help to efficiently address these threats. A strong partnership positions a team of individuals to tackle adverse situations, share resources and expertise, and capitalize on opportunities.

The final key element of success of the PFW program is to never quit saying “Thank You”. PFW has been grateful to have many incredible partners over the last three decades. The PFW program has always appreciated the “can-do” attitude of the conservation community and looks forward to a strong partnership for many more decades…Thank You!

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Restoring and enhancing America’s wildlife in partnership with landowners, tribes, schools, corporations and conservation organizations.

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