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The effects of Covid19 have been far-reaching and unexpected. With the sudden stop of international tourism to Africa, vast wilderness areas that would normally have a reliable presence of tourists and workers, have been left vacant. This vacancy, and its negative economic consequences, have left these areas vulnerable to wildlife crime. There are fears that poaching will become a pandemic of its own. Today’s guest, Anna Rathmann, is the Director of the Great Plains Foundation and talks to us about their new endeavor, Project Ranger. Through it, they are helping to fund front-line conservation personnel who are protecting these important and fragile ecosystems during this very critical time.

Highlights from our talk:

• (4:09) How ecotourism helps conservation and reduces poaching
• (7:13) Has there been an uptick in poaching since the pandemic started
• (9:48) Project Ranger
• (15:06) What else does the Great Plains Foundation do?

What YOU can do to help wildlife in Africa:

• If you are able, please consider donating to Project Ranger. Your dollar goes far in Africa and it will provide a job for a ranger and protection for wildlife.
• Awareness is golden. Spread the word about this initiative and what’s going on through your social networks.
• When it’s safe to travel again, do your research on the places and companies you travel with. There are many great ecotourism companies that use tourism as a means to help communities and the environment. Beware of the ones who greenwash and just pretend to be eco-friendly.

Resources Mentioned

• Project Ranger
• Great Plains Foundation

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Background music by Fearless Motivation Instrumentals: Meaning of Life