Wildlife Conservation Belize Project #67554

Revive cultural connection to nature in Belize

by Crocodile Research Coalition

Summary

This project will provide funds to help build the first environmental science museum in Belize, which will include a wildlife rehab center, and enclosures for crocodiles that can not be released back into the wild. This science museum will highlight the cultural connection of wildlife and ecosystems to communities to revive lost traditional knowledge of coexisting with nature. Our proposed laboratory will also engage local youth in pursuing the science and conservation.

$300,000
total goal

$289,366
remaining

12
donors

0
monthly donors

1
year

Challenge

Technology and foreign investors is causing a disruption in local knowledge and stewardship of Belizean wildlife and habitat. Traditional knowledge of coexistence, balance, and the overall connection communities have with nature is being lost as elders pass on. There is no location in Belize that educates the public on a large-scale about environmental sciences, natural history, as well as how previous and current culture ties into nature and vice versa. There are also few wildlife sanctuaries.

Solution

This project will provide a interactive educational opportunity to schools, businesses, and tourists to learn about the ecological and cultural importance of conserving wildlife and habitats. This facility will also provide a permanent home for crocodiles who can not be released back into the wild, as well as a rehab clinic for injured or ill wildlife in southern Belize. Furthermore, we plan to establish a research laboratory that can foster more conservation and science projects in the area.

Long-Term Impact

This project will foster a revival of cultural values and respect towards wildlife and habitats. Community pride and stewardship parallels successful wildlife coexistence, and we have already observed our small community caring for wildlife through our current educational initiatives. However, the creation of an environmental science museum provides Belizeans a place to further foster interest and pride protecting wildlife and their habitat, instilling stewardship and pride in nature.