A recent meeting of conservation partners from across the Northeast galvanized energy and action for the Northeast Bird Habitat Conservation Initiative (NBHCI), which helps achieve longer-term land protection objectives that benefit both birds and people. The meeting was an opportunity for conservationists from Regional Conservation Partnerships (RCPs), Audubon, and other organizations and partner agencies to network and learn about how partners across the Northeast have been working together on bird-focused land conservation and engagement projects.
One thread throughout the day was how partnerships are essential not only to protect ecological resources but also to support local economies and livelihoods, address growing energy demands, grow healthy food, and reinforce people’s sense of community. RCPs can share information and resources about bird conservation, amplify the impacts of community leaders, and bring diverse partners together while also highlighting local concerns. RCPs are responsive and can quickly pool resources to share information or collaborate on a funding opportunity.
Ways to get connected and involved:
- Join the conversations with NBHCI partners: contact Katie Blake, Regional Conservationist at Highstead, and Sara Barker, Project Leader at Cornell Labs.
- Get connected with your local RCP. Learn more here.
- Access resources of NBHCI initiative meetings and events here, including a recent webinar on providing targeted conservation networking for private landowners.
- Join our discussion forums to learn about upcoming webinars and training opportunities, including eBird training workshops. Contact Katie Blake, Regional Conservationist at Highstead to get added.
- Attend the Northeast Association of Fisheries and Wildlife Agencies conference in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, April 21-24. Symposium S.05 will feature NBHCI partnership projects.
A version of this story first appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of From the Ground Up.
