Conservation

Definition of nature conservation by Google: preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and of wildlife.

Beginnings

Conservation in the United States began back in the 19th century. This was when people started to see a need to protect the natural world. After an expedition into northern Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park was created, making it the first one in the US in 1872. Later in 1887 Theodore Roosevelt along with several others started the first American conservation group called Boone and Crockett Club.

These early movements set into motion something that is still growing and changing to this day, but the common goal is to protect nature.

Today’s Movements

Now a days there are many groups that are trying to help with conservation on different levels.

There are national groups like the World Wildlife Fund, Sierra Club, and Oceana that are working at a large scale to protect animals, plants, and habitats around the world. They raise money, do research, help create laws, and so much more to make sure that our planet is the best it can be.

There are also groups in different countries that are helping out their native species. In the US there are 58 different national parks that are protected areas for native animals and plants to live. These locations are also places for people to learn about these species and help protect them.

Lastly, local groups are in states, counties, towns, and schools to help protect and save habitats, animals, and plants right in your own backyard.

What can you do?

But what can you do as an individual? Trying to tackle large issues like climate change and animal extinction seems like too much for one person to do. Below is a list of some easy things that you can to help.

• Pick up litter in your community.
• Donate to a conservation group or cause you care about.
• Go to the zoo to help support their efforts to protect animals.
• Plant native species in your garden to support your local ecosystems.
• Be informed about the issues facing our world.
• And finally, share your passion and knowledge with others.

Protect, preserve, restore. Those three words are what conservation mean to me. What does it mean to you?