If every CP died overnight, the world wouldn't starve or run out of air.
Reputable conservation agencies have to target their limited funds on a
value for money basis, which almost inevitably means aiming for sites
with high biodiversity, which probably rules out most CP sites. Lets
face it, CPs are unashamedly hobbyists plants, and any initiatives for
conserving them in reasonable numbers will probably have to originate
with hobbyists. RBG Kew privately admits that most CPs are better off
in the hands of enthusiasts rather than in their own possession. There
have been cases of sites being repopulated with material from private
collectors; I have some pygmy Droseras which by all accounts are extinct
in the wild, and if I received reassurances that guaranteed protection
in perpetuity, I would be delighted to donate material to help
re-establish them.
When I mulled over joining the ICPS, the cynics told me that it was just
an American society with a pretentious name, and that if I belonged to
my national society it would have little to offer. I am pleased to say
that the latter is definitely wrong - the newsletter alone is worth the
subscription. However while the society has an overwhelming balance of
American members and officers, a favourable subscription rate for
Americans and an overwhelming concern for US-related CP issues, I think
it has some way to go to rid itself of the former jibe.
Any flame-mails to me privately please.
Nigel Hurneyman