As I think many of you know from the news, there are changes ahead regarding US funding and reports are coming in of the impact the funding cuts are going to have. And conservation charities/non-profits will be affected.

Let’s take an example.

Rangers care for our planet’s wildlife and wild places.   They risk losing their lives as they work to protect endangered species from the illegal wildlife trade and from poaching.  They work to safeguard ecosystems and alongside communities to encourage them to respect and care for nature. 

The Thin Green Line emailed, noting that the US Government plays a crucial role in protecting nature.  And now, thanks to these cuts, it says that about half the ranger workforce has been affected.  Many have lost between 30-50% of their funding.

Programmes concerned with wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, reforestation, biodiversity protection, communication and ranger training are all at risk.

A rangers’ work is extremely dangerous.  They are often poorly equipped and badly trained.  Over 1,000 rangers have died over the last ten years, as they work to protect wildlife and their habitats against poachers and militia groups who are often armed. You can see the Thin Green Line's Roll of Honour for 2024 here.

The Thin Green Line is asking for donations to help rangers resume their operations around the world.  It works to give wildlife rangers the support they need to protect the natural world. In the USA, for tax-deductable donations, donate through Born Free.

Fauna and Flora International have an appeal, explaining that the cuts have put many, many species in jeopardy.  They work closely with conservation partners in over 40 different countries. Things were difficult enough for nature – and as crucial patrols stand down, poachers and wildlife traffickers will surely seize the opportunity.   It is asking for donations to keep rangers on the ground, protecting wildlife.  Pangolins, okapi and sea turtles are depending on us all to step up. You can donate here.

The Rainforest Foundation have also been in touch. They say that in Peru, they've had to scale back their rainforest monitoring work. This work stops illegal logging, mining and land grabbing. They need donations both to to support their Indigenous partners to uphold their rights and protect their rainforests.  Find out more here.

Ecowatch reported on 20th February 2025 that "conservation groups, including the Center for Biological Diversity, Oceana, Greenpeace and the Natural Resources Defense Council, filed two separate lawsuits against the Trump administration on Wednesday". Read all about it here.