Grassroots Conservation: Volunteers Contribute to Threatened and Endangered Species Projects and Foster a Supportive Public

Authors

Christine M. Thody, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
Renae J. Held, New Mexico Game and Fish DepartmentFollow
Ron J. Johnson, Clemson UniversityFollow
Jeffrey F. Marcus, North Carolina Wildlife Resources CommissionFollow
Mary B. Brown, University of Nebraska at LincolnFollow

Volume

47

Issue

1

Abstract

Educational programs for volunteers participating in threatened and endangered species conservation projects foster supportive attitudes in individuals who then become valuable advocates. We surveyed volunteers to assess the impact of the Tern and Plover Conservation Partnership's program. This program trains volunteers to protect Interior Least Terns and Piping Plovers nesting at sand and gravel mines, lakeshore housing developments, and river sandbars. Volunteers increased their knowledge and appreciation of threatened and endangered species and conservation policy. They expressed interest in contributing to conservation policymaking and felt that they can make a difference in the recovery of legally protected species.

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Recommended Citation

Thody, C. M., Held, R. J., Johnson, R. J., Marcus, J. F., & Brown, M. B. (2009). Grassroots Conservation: Volunteers Contribute to Threatened and Endangered Species Projects and Foster a Supportive Public. The Journal of Extension, 47(1), Article 23. https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/joe/vol47/iss1/23