Wildlands Conservation has been involved with numerous conservation projects and programs over the past 15 years. Under the guidance of Julie Morris, this is perhaps our most challenging and exciting endeavor. As ecologists that have always been active in the community, we believe it is one of our inherent responsibilities to bridge the gap in understanding between the science community and the public. Our varied backgrounds allow us to address conservation issues from a social, political and ecological perspective. Our objective is to assist decision makers and the public in making well-informed decisions based on the best available information.

Conservation Planning Experience

Wildlands Conservation staff works in all facets of conservation planning ranging from large scale planning initiatives to community-based guidance and environmental education. These include:

• Implementation of environmental education and outreach programs with local communities in Florida and internationally.
  
  
• Ecological and logistical support for the development of the Gulf Coast Conservation Corridor that extends from the Everglades to Apalachicola.
  
  
• Conducting studies focusing on public knowledge, attitudes and behavior about wildlife and resource management in Florida.
  
  
• Coordinating successful referenda efforts to initiate environmental land acquisition programs for Sarasota and Charlotte counties. Our staff has spearheaded and led the community education and outreach campaigns, formed Political Action Committees and worked with various interest groups to pass successful referendums.
  
  
• Teaching agency personnel, environmental consultants and other parties land management and monitoring methods.
  
  
• Working with landowners to manage their lands for wildlife and native species.
  
  
• Teaching gopher tortoise management programs to agency personnel, consultants and land managers.
  
  
• Assisting in the development of other Florida county ordinances relating to land use and conservation issues, including habitat protection, sea turtles, exotic species, and land acquisition programs.
  
  
• Working with communities and local governments to bridge the knowledge gap on conservation issues.
  
  
• Working with local conservation groups in providing expert biological opinion on land use issues throughout Florida.