As the season of gratitude arrives, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has expressed its appreciation for its community of supporters and global collaborators. This year, the organization is highlighting several partnerships that are advancing conservation efforts worldwide.
One such collaboration is with the Mongolian Conservation Initiative (MCI), led by Gana Wingard. This partnership focuses on the Ikh Nart Nature Reserve in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert steppe ecosystem. “The vital role of desert steppe grassland ecosystems cannot be overstated,” states The Living Desert. The reserve spans 160,000 acres and supports both nomadic herding families and diverse wildlife. The joint effort aims to enhance public outreach and community-based conservation work in this critical area.
In South Africa, The Living Desert partners with Transfrontier Africa to support the Black Mambas Anti-Poaching Unit (BMAPU). This female-only ranger group combats wildlife poaching through a community-engaged approach. “This model moves away from fortress conservation,” says The Living Desert. Their sister program, The Bush Babies Environmental Education Program, educates children about conservation’s importance.
Efforts are also underway to reintroduce pronghorn populations in Southern California through a partnership with the Peninsular Pronghorn Recovery Program in Mexico. These efforts involve assessing habitats for suitability before potential reintroduction of Sonoran pronghorn from stable populations in Arizona.
In Zimbabwe, The Living Desert teamed up with Imvelo Safari Lodges for the Building Community Conservation Success workshop near Hwange National Park. Students from Lupane State University conducted outreach to address human-wildlife conflict in local communities. Imvelo’s initiatives include introducing white rhinos into a sanctuary on communal land as part of their Community Rhino Conservation Initiative.
The Living Desert emphasizes that successful conservation requires community support: “Conservation efforts must have the support of their communities.” They extend gratitude to all who contribute to preserving desert wildlife and habitats.
