Madeline, yes I certainly agree that local support is the way to approach
conservation. I think it is also important for interested individuals to
network with local groups and organizations which have conservation/monitoring
interests (even if not specifically concerned with CP).
Universities and herbaria are engaged in monitoring/documenting plant
communities, the Nature Conservancy works toward protecting habitat, local
plant clubs serve to educate and disseminate information on local flora.
Botanical gardens may be involved with salvaging plants from habitats
scheduled for destruction, or even developing reintroduction programs (ie.
CPC). It's important for a conservation-minded individual to work with
existing groups/organizations, rather than on a solo project--the results of
which could be lost, unknown, or unavailable to the right parties when needed.
I know some people have expressed dissillusionment with thier local chapter of
the Nature Conservancy, or their local botanical garden, or the Forest
Service, and other groups. It may be necessary to shop around and find which
organization bests suits your time and interests. The adventurous may try
starting their own organization!
Another good example of local involvement: a volunteer working in the MSC
herbarium regularly attends our city's township planning board, and
argues for protection of wetlands, against the interests of local developers.
Involvement in the township planning board sounds like a dry and political
activity to me, but she enjoys it. And since the number of people involved
is likely to be small, one voice can go a lot farther than in a general
election.
Michael Chamberland