Making wildlife conservation relevant in culturally diverse landscapes

Bird conservation in the 21st century will require diverse and innovative approaches to realize tangible outcomes. As we operate in a space where more people are living in urban areas over rural areas, previously strong... [ view full abstract ]

Bird conservation in the 21st century will require diverse and innovative approaches to realize tangible outcomes. As we operate in a space where more people are living in urban areas over rural areas, previously strong familial ties to the land are beginning to deteriorate. Additionally, with a more culturally diverse population establishing roots (and casting votes) in the American West, the conservation community is struggling to keep up with delivering a culturally relevant practice. At Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, we address these phenomena through an investment in public-private partnerships and meaningful relationships with landowners. Through voluntary mechanisms supported by US Farm Bill dollars, we link private landowners to financial and technical assistance programs that help roll out habitat restoration and enhancement projects. We propose an adapted approach moving forward, one which celebrates multiple ways of knowing about a landscape, and aims to 1) transfer scientific knowledge to landowners in a culturally relevant way, 2) allow landowners to be involved with monitoring changes on their own land, and 3) promoting the mutually beneficial Farm Bill programs to a wider political and public audience. Working examples of these collaborative efforts throughout Bird Conservancy’s landscape will be provided, and opportunities for future collaborative bird conservation in the Intermountain West and Great Plains will be discussed.