Nature Conservancy's Historic Human:Nature Campaign Raises Over $50 Million for Indiana's Conservation Efforts
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has achieved a significant milestone in environmental conservation with the conclusion of its Human:Nature campaign in Indiana, which raised over $50 million. This fundraising effort stands as the most successful campaign for conservation in the state’s history and surpassed its initial goal of $48 million by more than $2 million.
With funds raised through generous contributions from individuals, businesses, and foundations across the state, TNC has made remarkable strides towards the conservation of natural habitats and improving ecosystems in Indiana over the past five years.
One of the campaign's most notable achievements is the protection of an additional 10,000 acres of land, with 1,700 acres being the largest conservation project undertaken by TNC in the last 25 years. This vital project involved acquiring land adjacent to the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge, which is crucial for wildlife habitats and biodiversity.
In addition to land protection, the campaign has led to the planting of 140,000 trees across various TNC preserves. This effort not only improves air and water quality but also enhances carbon sequestration and climate resilience, which are essential for Hoosiers in adapting to climate change effects.
The TNC has made enhancements to visitor experiences at various nature preserves, including the recently improved Kankakee Sand area in northwest Indiana. The upgrades feature new bison viewing platforms, picnic areas, improved parking facilities, and educational interpretive signage, making the site more accessible and welcoming for all visitors.
Moreover, TNC has forged collaborations with the agricultural community to promote sustainable practices, setting new cover crop records in Indiana that benefit both water quality and farmers' financial outcomes. Environmental improvements have also included the removal of four outdated low-head dams in Southern Indiana, which reconnected nearly 1,800 miles of stream habitats aiding aquatic species and improving river safety for local residents.
The campaign utilized prescribed burns, conducting a record of 117 fires across 11,000 acres to help control invasive plant species and promote the growth of native species. In a forward-thinking effort, TNC developed the 'Mining the Sun' strategy, focusing on repurposing mined lands and brownfields for renewable energy projects, thus enhancing the state’s energy landscape.
Engaging with communities has also been a priority. TNC hosted over 500 outreach events and conducted more than 400 volunteer workdays, garnering participation from over 9,000 attendees and 2,000 volunteers committed to preserving Indiana’s natural resources.
Larry Clemens, state director for TNC in Indiana, enthusiastically remarked, "This campaign showcases the incredible power of community-driven conservation. The achievements made through collaboration will leave a lasting positive impact on both people and nature for generations." While TNC celebrates these victories, the organization emphasizes that conservation is an ongoing effort and remains committed to further enhancing the Earth’s ecosystems in the years to come. As the Human:Nature campaign closes, TNC extends sincere gratitude to all who contributed to paving the way for a healthier future for Indiana and its natural beauty. For further insights into the Human:Nature campaign, interested parties can view the campaign's celebration video on TNC's YouTube channel or visit www.nature.org/indiana for additional information.
With funds raised through generous contributions from individuals, businesses, and foundations across the state, TNC has made remarkable strides towards the conservation of natural habitats and improving ecosystems in Indiana over the past five years.
One of the campaign's most notable achievements is the protection of an additional 10,000 acres of land, with 1,700 acres being the largest conservation project undertaken by TNC in the last 25 years. This vital project involved acquiring land adjacent to the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge, which is crucial for wildlife habitats and biodiversity.
In addition to land protection, the campaign has led to the planting of 140,000 trees across various TNC preserves. This effort not only improves air and water quality but also enhances carbon sequestration and climate resilience, which are essential for Hoosiers in adapting to climate change effects.
The TNC has made enhancements to visitor experiences at various nature preserves, including the recently improved Kankakee Sand area in northwest Indiana. The upgrades feature new bison viewing platforms, picnic areas, improved parking facilities, and educational interpretive signage, making the site more accessible and welcoming for all visitors.
Moreover, TNC has forged collaborations with the agricultural community to promote sustainable practices, setting new cover crop records in Indiana that benefit both water quality and farmers' financial outcomes. Environmental improvements have also included the removal of four outdated low-head dams in Southern Indiana, which reconnected nearly 1,800 miles of stream habitats aiding aquatic species and improving river safety for local residents.
The campaign utilized prescribed burns, conducting a record of 117 fires across 11,000 acres to help control invasive plant species and promote the growth of native species. In a forward-thinking effort, TNC developed the 'Mining the Sun' strategy, focusing on repurposing mined lands and brownfields for renewable energy projects, thus enhancing the state’s energy landscape.
Engaging with communities has also been a priority. TNC hosted over 500 outreach events and conducted more than 400 volunteer workdays, garnering participation from over 9,000 attendees and 2,000 volunteers committed to preserving Indiana’s natural resources.
Larry Clemens, state director for TNC in Indiana, enthusiastically remarked, "This campaign showcases the incredible power of community-driven conservation. The achievements made through collaboration will leave a lasting positive impact on both people and nature for generations." While TNC celebrates these victories, the organization emphasizes that conservation is an ongoing effort and remains committed to further enhancing the Earth’s ecosystems in the years to come. As the Human:Nature campaign closes, TNC extends sincere gratitude to all who contributed to paving the way for a healthier future for Indiana and its natural beauty. For further insights into the Human:Nature campaign, interested parties can view the campaign's celebration video on TNC's YouTube channel or visit www.nature.org/indiana for additional information.
Topics Environment）
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