Conservation starts with having a connection to the natural world. In addition to working ‘on-the-ground’ in conservation, the organisations 1900 Footprints supports also recognise the need to help people reconnect with nature, so they are better equipped to individually value and conserve the natural world.
BioR
- Restoring habitat now
BioR is a not-for-profit organisation that generates funds, knowledge and practical skills to re-construct habitats to support native wildlife in degraded landscapes. The Bio in BioR stands for Biodiversity, the R stands for Research, Reconstruct and Reconnect.
BioR appreciates that Reconstructing habitat for biodiversity requires the development of complex habitat features at a landscape and regional scale. The organisation recognises the importance of science in planning to deliver this, so it supports Research to continually improve theoretical and practical knowledge, such as improving understanding of the habitat needs of declining species. BioR also acknowledges the long-term commitment required to ensure the longevity of reconstructed habitats, so they work to Reconnect the community to natural systems and to develop intergenerational ownership. The community can also offset their ecological footprint with BioR, providing on-going funding to manage the reconstructed habitats into the indefinite future. See BioR’s website.
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BioR is run by volunteers, meaning nearly all proceeds go towards restoration and not marketing. They currently have multiple revegetation projects running in South Australia in areas containing rare and vulnerable animals. Tristan has volunteered with BioR since 2011.
BioR will use donations from 1900 Footprints to
revegetate and maintain habitat in the Frahns Farm conservation block near Monarto, South Australia.
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NB: Direct donations to BioR are Tax Deductible in Australia.
Wollangarra
- Shaping future conservationists
Wollangarra takes young people hiking into the Victorian high country to carry out practical conservation projects, such as maintaining tracks, building boardwalks and cleaning up campsites. They also get to stay on a unique rural property without modern conveniences, such as electricity or mobile phones. Through these experiences, the young people not only tangibly contribute to conservation, but develop and share their sense of community and strengthen their appreciation of the natural world. Young people leave Wollangarra as leaders of social and environmental change.
“Wollangarra is an independent, non-profit organisation situated beside the Macalister River south of Licola, Victoria. Through outdoor education, Wollangarra aims to provide a small but vital step towards a healthier environment, a stronger community and happier young people. We believe that by doing rather than talking, and fixing rather than complaining, we can help young people to see environmental issues as exciting and demanding challenges to the way we live, rather than as endlessly depressing and negative threats to our future.” – from Wollangarra’s website.
In 2016 Tristan lived and worked as part of Wollangarra’s staff team. During this time he was able to see the importance of engaging and empowering young people in natural environments, to help them develop a sense of wonder about the natural world.
Proceeds from the 1900 Footprints walk will go towards sponsoring disadvantaged young people to experience Wollangarra’s life-changing programs.
