Establishing relationships is crucial in life, including in the field of wildlife conservation. Numerous animal organizations worldwide are dedicated to vital conservation work, but creating connections among these organizations necessitates robust networking. The Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) steps in as a non-profit organization founded in 2002 to safeguard endangered species by supporting conservation entrepreneurs and strategies that promote harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife. Taking a Silicon Valley approach to conservation efforts, WCN utilizes a venture capital-inspired fundraising model to identify and bolster conservation programs. Despite its remote and efficient staff, WCN has significantly expanded its impact since its inception.
Paul Thomson, the Senior Director of Conservation Programs at WCN, spoke with A-Z Animals.com about his journey. A Bay Area native and lifelong animal enthusiast, Thomson holds degrees from the University of Michigan and Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies. His conservation journey began with a project in Kenya, leading to his involvement with the Wildlife Conservation Network due to its innovative investment approach. Thomson’s passion for wildlife conservation eventually brought him back to California to work at WCN.
WCN’s work is segmented into three key areas overseen by Thomson. Firstly, the organization invests in species protection organizations, fostering long-term partnerships and aiding in operational efficiency. WCN matches these organizations with global funding sources from individuals, foundations, and corporations, highlighting the importance of contributions of all sizes. Moreover, WCN operates a portfolio of wildlife funds that distribute grants to projects across diverse species populations. The organization is committed to supporting any group making a positive impact within a shared strategic framework.
Lastly, WCN focuses on developing the next generation of conservation leaders through the Rising Wildlife Leaders program. This initiative offers scholarships, leadership training, and career development opportunities for aspiring conservationists. Through its multifaceted approach, WCN continues to make significant strides in wildlife conservation efforts worldwide.
Many individuals working in wildlife conservation may not receive adequate pay based on their experience. To address this issue, the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) offers support to ensure these dedicated individuals have the resources needed to thrive. According to Thomson, this support allows conservationists to continue their work without financial constraints.
One example of such conservation efforts is seen with the Spectacled Bear Conservation team, who utilize cameras to document these remarkable animals.
Despite the diverse range of initiatives under the WCN umbrella, challenges persist. The organization faces difficulties in measuring success due to the complex network of donors, funds, and programs scattered worldwide. Transparency is crucial as donors seek assurance that their contributions are making a positive impact. Thomson highlights the difficulty in assessing overall success given the varied geographical locations, species, and threats conservationists encounter.
The WCN meticulously monitors its conservation partners over time, observing their growth and impact. This includes tracking wildlife population growth, employment rates within conservation projects, and conservation activities like removing snares and deploying ranger patrols annually. Ultimately, the WCN aims to see an increase in wildlife populations and a reduction in human-wildlife conflicts.
External factors pose additional challenges to wildlife conservation efforts. Issues such as locust infestations, natural disasters, and political instability in remote regions can hinder progress. As a privately-funded organization, the WCN remains accountable to its donors, who may sometimes expect immediate results from their contributions.
Thomson emphasizes the complexity of conservation work, especially in regions where communities coexist with wildlife. The WCN strives to balance respecting local traditions and collaborating with communities to ensure successful conservation efforts.
One notable partnership for the WCN was with Disney for the Protect the Pride campaign, launched in conjunction with The Lion King movie release in 2019. This initiative raised awareness and funds for the Lion Recovery Fund, addressing the alarming decline in the global lion population since the original film’s release in 1994.
Most individuals are aware of the challenges faced by tigers, elephants, and rhinos, but there is a general lack of awareness regarding the threats that lions are currently encountering. According to Thomson, the surprise experienced by many when they learn about the precarious situation of lions stems from the common misconception that these majestic animals, as the “king of the jungle,” must be safe. However, the reality is starkly different. To raise awareness about this issue, the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) has partnered once again with Disney for the launch of “Mufasa,” a prequel to The Lion King, this week. The collaboration aims not only to support the WCN’s Protect the Pride Campaign but also to urge individuals to take action, watch the movie, spread the word about the imperiled lion populations, and hopefully contribute to the Lion Recovery Fund, as emphasized by Thomson.
The WCN has witnessed a significant surge in support amid the growing awakening to the biodiversity crisis plaguing our planet, showcasing tangible success over the years. With over 400 grants disbursed across 25 countries, more than 1,000 individuals employed, and a staggering 83,000 snares removed from wildlife habitats, the organization has made substantial strides. In the case of lions, the WCN’s efforts have yielded positive results, with Thompson noting that half of the areas where they operate now exhibit stable or increasing lion populations.
While devising and implementing effective strategies in conservation efforts can be challenging, the WCN remains optimistic about the future. The organization is committed to continued growth, targeted funding allocation, and the nurturing of emerging leaders in conservation. Noteworthy initiatives supported by the WCN include the Elephant Crisis Fund, the Rhino Recovery Fund, and the Pangolin Crisis Fund, a cause close to Thomson’s heart.
One of the WCN’s successful strategies has been its flagship event, the annual WCN Wildlife Conservation Expo held in San Francisco, which convenes wildlife experts from around the world to share insights into their work. Thomson expresses the desire to expand this event to new cities and regions as a means to engage with a broader audience.
The WCN’s unique fundraising model offers everyone the opportunity to contribute. Donations can be directed to the WCN, which will allocate them to areas of greatest need, or to a specific species or organization under its purview. Additionally, the WCN’s website features a shop offering a variety of products, with proceeds supporting field conservation efforts.
Encouraging individuals to spread the word and raise awareness, Thomson and the WCN highlight the impact of public advocacy on their conservation endeavors. Posting about their work and the plight of endangered species on social media can significantly benefit the WCN and its partners. Ultimately, championing the cause of threatened animals is paramount, as stressed by Thompson, who urges people to become advocates for wildlife.
