As Americans across the country make their New Year's commitments to lose weight, give up tobacco or stop drinking certain beverages, I suggest that we include a few resolutions to benefit the wild creatures that share this planet:
First, let's resolve to leave the remaining wilderness intact. We should be able to manage living on the land that we have already plowed, cemented or otherwise "developed." In the meantime, we can begin protecting and restoring those open spaces that are vital to migrant and resident wildlife.
Second, let's commit ourselves to minimize our impact on natural ecosystems by reducing toxic emissions, eliminating pollution, recycling what we use and getting maximum longevity from the products that we consume.
Third, let's support efforts to control the human population. If we are unable to do this, all other conservation programs will be in vain.
Finally, let's provide financial and/or active support for the local, regional and international conservation organizations that work to protect our natural heritage. A few of my recommendations are listed in the right column of this blog.
