Archive for the ‘ Non Profits Saving the Planet ’ Category

The Haribon Foundation – Rainforestation in the Philippines

Monday, August 16th, 2010

KissMyCountry has connected with the Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources for our Philippines t-shirt.  Enjoy reading about this group – and consider a KissMyCountry t-shirt to show your love for the Philippines!  A portion of each t-shirt sold will benefit the Haribon Foundation’s efforts to save Philippine ecosystems from development.

“The Philippines has less than 20% forest cover and we need 54% to regulate ecological processes and that includes the forest’s ability to provide us with a steady supply of water for irrigation, industry and domestic needs – drinking, cooking, washing, etc.”  – Annabelle Plantilla, Director, Organizational Sustainability Group, Haribon Foundation

Preserving the Ecosystem in the Philippines Since 1972
The Haribon Foundation, based in Quezon City, was formed in 1972 as a bird watching society to preserve the Philippine Eagle.  The group began by studying the little known ecology of the Philippine Eagle and looking for the most effective way to conserve this bird of prey.   The organization quickly grew to a full-fledged nature conservation foundation dedicated to preserving Philippine ecosystems.  Combining science and research with campaigns against industrial development, the Haribon Foundation is a leader among conservation groups in Asia.   They are the first organization to enter into a Debt-For-Nature Swap Program and have a 30-year history of creating programs and relationships with leading environmental organizations around the world.  We applaud their efforts and the role they have played to inspire other environmental groups in Asia.

ROAD to 2020
Rainforestation Organizations and Advocates (ROAD) to 2020 is the Haribon Foundation’s primary focus today.  “Our major advocacy now is ROAD to 2020 which aims to restore 1 million hectares of forest by using native tree species.  The Philippines has less than 20% forest cover and we need 54% to regulate ecological processes and that includes the forest’s ability to provide us with a steady supply of water for irrigation, industry and domestic needs – drinking, cooking, washing, etc.  As of now we have only planted roughly 300 hectares.”  says Anabelle Plantilla, Director, Organizational Sustainability Group, Haribon Foundation.   A map of ROAD to 2020 sites is on the Foundation’s web site.

Rainforestation, not Reforestation  to Restore and Support Ecosystems
The Haribon Foundation’s programs reflect their understanding of the Philippine’s ecosystems.  Their logo, the ‘tree symbol’ has nine leaves to signify the nine ecosystems of the Philippines – rainforest, savannah, desert, grassland, deciduous forest, mixed forest, mediterarnean, taiga, and arctic tundra.   The ROAD to 2020’s ‘Rainforestation, not Reforestation’ program is an excellent example of the Foundation’s careful work.  By using a variety of native tree species  for reforestation rather than exotic or ‘foreign’ tree species, rainforestation restores the ecological benefits of a healthy forest.  A healthy forest will provide rich populations of animals and plants, stable abundant water supply and a rainforest that provides protection against natural disasters such as typhoons and landslides.  This is the goal of the Haribon Foundation’s ROAD to 2020.  The Foundation has partnered with Leyte State University for this project, again emphasizing a commitment to programs based in academic study.

Give a Gift Tree to Plant Seedlings for Rainforestation
The Haribon Foundation has many ways for people to support ROAD to 2020.  The Give a Gift Tree, at a cost of PhP100 (about $2.50) is perfect for wedding favors, baby gifts, anniversaries, Earth Day celebrations and fundraisers.  Each Gift Tree comes with a commitment to plant one native tree seedling and provide the giver with a gift certificate in one of several Animalaya designs showing Philippine wildlife.  “Donations can be made online or can be paid directly to our bank account.  Each seedling costs PhP100 and benefits local communities that we work with.  Communities supply the seedlings and maintain them to ensure survival.  We also provide them with the necessary training to be effective stewards of the forest.” says Annabelle Plantilla.

Enter the Million Hectare Walk or Volunteer for Haribon
Supporters can also participate in the Million Hectare Walk which is held annually in November.  For the last three years the Walk has taken place at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Nature Center in Quezon City.  There are two routes, the 300-meter path and the 1.5-km path.  Not a walker but still want to support?  Non-walkers can participate by pledging at least seventy-five pesos (P75.00) per lap for a registered walker or by being a volunteer during the event.  The key is participation!  Volunteer Opportunities also exist if you are living or spending time in the Philippines.  Volunteers are an important part of Haribon’s ability to accomplish their goals, and volunteers are needed to do legwork for campaigns, to produce educational materials, and to do research.  Although most volunteer opportunities are in metro Manila, volunteers are sometimes needed at sites outside the city. 

We wish the Haribon Foundation all the best in their efforts, and know that they will continue to succeed and inspire others.  KissMyCounty is donating a portion of sales from each Philippines t-shirt to the Haribon Foundation, so you are planting a tree for Haribon when you buy a t-shirt!  If you would like to do more, please visit the Haribon Foundation’s website, email act@haribon.org.ph or call them at 434-4642/421-1213.

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Gulf Restoration Network – Showing Your Support for the Gulf of Mexico

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

KissMyCountry continues to support the Gulf Restoration Network (GRN) through our USA, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas t-shirts and our blog posts.  In addition to their central mission to collect information about the health of the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf Restoration Network is adding to their outreach in response to their increased need for support.  These initiatives – most linking with other Gulf-based organizations – are ways to show your support for efforts there and continue to remain informed.

Blog posts, Interviews and Press Releases
Take time each day to look at the GRN’s informative and compelling blog posts, interviews and press releases.  Their Trajectory Map updates the scope of the oil spill daily, and commentary by GRN staff members such as Aaron Viles and Ellis Pickett showcase problems, issues and individual experiences in the wake of this disaster.  Their focus is on getting information to you and they do.  They are a great source of information and action.

Gulf Future – Joining With Others to Support Coastal Communities in the Gulf
Gulf Future is an effort to increase public support for coastal communities.  Wear a non-petroleum wristband or attend a benefit concert this summer.   For the people affected, knowing that others care is an enormous source of strength.  A coalition of the Gulf Restoration Network and the Gulf Coast Fund, Gulf Future asks us to be visible about our support and concern.  The commitment is small – a $10 donation for a bracelet or the cost of a concert ticket.  However the collective response speaks volumes about the amount of support from around our country.

A Goal to Host 200 Screenings of ‘Defend the Gulf’ on August 29
The greatest challenge of the BP oil spill is that it happened just as Gulf residents had fully recovered from the aftermath of Katrina.  August 29 is the 5th anniversary of Katrina’s landfall in the Gulf of Mexico and to mark the day the GRN is asking people to host a screening of the ‘Defend the Gulf’ series in their homes, churches or community centers to raise awareness about current needs.  Invite friends and family and the GRN will provide hosts with a DVD, information, and Louisiana goodies.  Their goal is 200 screenings around the country – double the number held last year.

The GRN T-Shirt Quilt
The GRN is making a quilt using each of the t-shirts whose sale is helping to raise money for the GRN as another way to show how many truly care.  KissMyCountry was proud to donate one of our USA t-shirts for this quilt.  We’re guessing this will be displayed in New Orleans or DC or auctioned off.  It’s a work in progress and a great way to show the unified support for the GRN.   We’ll keep you posted.

To stay in touch and show your support, we suggest you follow the GRN’s blogs and updates – and consider wearing a bracelet, attending a concert or hosting a screening.  Thank you for staying informed!

 

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The Norbeck Society – Sustainability of South Dakota’s Public Lands

Monday, June 28th, 2010

“We are trying to reinstate a landscape that existed 150 years ago and get back to open space meadows that are natural fire breaks and allow streams to return to prehistoric flows.”  – Colin Paterson, President, The Norbeck Society

KissMyCountry’s South Dakota t-shirt will lend support to The Norbeck Society, with a portion of retail and wholesale sales donated to the group.  The Norbeck Society is a non-profit that supports the stewardship, restoration, and preservation of public lands in South Dakota.  Enjoy hearing Colin Paterson, geologist, world traveler and the Society’s President talk about the work of The Norbeck Society, the Black Hills National Forest and other places he loves!

A Group is Formed After Saving Botany Canyon
The Norbeck Society formed after a group mobilized against the abuse of the Black Hills National Forest by All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and motorized vehicle riders – and won.  Focusing on Botany Canyon, a spring-fed box canyon in the Black Hills also known as South Stagebarn Canyon, Becci Rowe, Elaine Ebbert, and  others presented their case to the National Forest Advisory Board.   Asking officials to protect the canyon from ATV and motorized vehicle traffic, the Board responded quickly and the Forest Service closed Botany Canyon overnight by special order.  The Norbeck Society was born.  “We got to know each other and got together to form a group,” says Colin Paterson, who became the Society’s President.  “The Black Hills is our backyard and there’s a lot to be done.”

Honoring an Early Steward of South Dakota
The Society is named for Peter Norbeck (1870-1936), a former U.S. Senator and Governor of South Dakota who was instrumental to the development of Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park as well as other national and state parks in South Dakota.  He also helped secure federal money for the carving of Mount Rushmore.  “We decided to name our group after him – we didn’t ask permission,” says Colin, “and then we heard from his descendants – some living in South Dakota but others in Washington state, California and New England.  Luckily, they simply wanted to join our group!”  The Norbeck Society has about 600 members currently, most living in South Dakota but with many members outside the state who have lived or vacationed there at some point.  “We have a national base, and it’s good to spread our wings”, says Colin.

Mission and Current Focus on Travel Management in the Black Hills National Forest
Stewardship, restoration and preservation of public lands, and conservation for future generations form the core mission of The Norbeck Society.  The group works with – rather than challenges – local agencies.  “We are a middle of the road group, trying to work with our agencies” says Colin.  Their current project, AFOOT (Alliance For Organizing Open Trails) is a goal to participate in the upcoming Travel Management Plan for the Black Hills National Forest.  The Forest is one of the most densely-roaded and trailed national forests and one of the last to formulate a forest-wide travel management plan.   “We are trying to protect special areas”, explains Colin, “We are advocating a new plan for the Forest, which has been managed as a timber farm.  We are trying to reinstate a landscape that existed 150 years ago and get back to open space meadows that are natural fire breaks and allow streams to return.”  Threats to the landscape come from local use as well as tourism.  “Some campgrounds and hotels promote ATVs, and in nearby Minnesota and Wisconsin the regulations are more restrictive.  So, people come here where it’s less restrictive at this stage,” explains Colin.  The Norbeck Society supports planning to preserve the Forest for all to enjoy its beauty now and for generations to come.

Including Young Adults, Teens and Children in Activities
There’s something for all ages in The Norbeck Society.  The Society has a university environmental group, Norbeck Uni, for university students who want to support the group’s initiatives.  “This group likes to get outside and work on projects in the Forest like building bridges on hiking and mountain bike trails”, says Colin.  “The group also decided on their own to mentor local high school students to convey respect for public lands.”  There is also Norbeck Kids for school age children.  “One of our members has two young boys, and had the idea to set up Norbeck Kids to hold field trips to explain biology and botany.  They’ve had a good turnout,” says Colin.

Places Colin Loves and Suggestions for a South Dakota Visit
Colin is from Invercarcill, New Zealand in the southern part of the South Island, an area settled by Scottish sheep farmers.  A geologist working in the exploration of mineral and metallic resources, Colin has done geological work on six continents – all except Antarctica.  “The Black Hills has been my home for 28 years” says Colin.  “The place we saved – Botany Canyon – is pretty special.  The Big Horn Mountains are three hours away with an elevation of 13,000 feet.  Cape Town, South Africa and Namibia in southwest Africa are also favorite places, and also north central Turkey. ”

Colin and The Norbeck Society are based in Rapid City, South Dakota.  We asked Colin to tell us about places we shouldn’t miss if we travel there – beyond the famous landmarks – and where to get a meal in town.  Colin suggested visiting the Crazy Horse Memorial near Mount Rushmore and also mentioned the good hiking and mountain bike trails on Mickelson Trail – a former railroad that is now a hiking and biking trail.  For a meal or drinks in Rapid City, Colin suggested Tally’s Restaurant, the Firehouse Brewing Co., Delmonico’s, or Enigma in the Radisson Hotel.  Outside Rapid City Colin suggested a drive to Hill City to see the many art galleries and have a meal  at the Alpine Inn.

Colin, we wish all the best success to you and The Norbeck Society as you continue your work – and we admit that we envy your 1.3 million acre ‘backyard’!  We will stay in touch and check in as you work toward a Travel Management plan for the Black Hills National Forest.

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Gulf Restoration Network – Ellis Pickett, Campaign Organizer

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

KissMyCountry had the chance to speak last week with Ellis Pickett, Texas Campaign Organizer for the Gulf Restoration Network.  As an environmentalist who previously worked in the oil industry, Ellis has a unique perspective and knowledge, and spoke with us about his work and his concerns for marine life in the Gulf following the BP “Oil Spill”.  KissMyCountry is supporting the Gulf Restoration Network with our Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas t-shirts.  As a ‘nod’ to Ellis, based in Texas, we feature our Texas t-shirt for the next few days and thank him for taking the time to speak with us!

 
“I spent 20 years working in the oil fields.  I’ve spent time on those rigs.  I have expertise in this field that a lot of environmentalists don’t have.  This is a game changer.  One of the things it’s proven is that the unthinkable can happen.” –  Ellis Pickett, Gulf Restoration Network
 
A Day Spent Watching BP’s ROVs on Five Computer Screens
“I get up and I come to the computer, and then I stay on it until late at night.  On my computer at the moment I have 5 live screens from the BP ROVs (Remotely Operated UnderWater Vehicles).  These are real time.  I’m watching one of the ROVs apply dispersant,” Ellis Pickett says in response to a question about his day’s work.   As a Gulf watchdog for the past 15 years, members of the Gulf Restoration Network’s team are now focused on observing, measuring and recording information related to the BP Oil Spill.  “We’re trying to make sure that industry and government does the right thing,” says Ellis.  The Deepwater Horizon explosion on April 20 increased the group’s work enormously, and their entire team has been working many extra hours, with everyone pitching in.  Ellis, focusing on Texas issues, is working closely with team members focusing on issues in Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida – watching BP’s ROVs, talking with experts as they prepare their comments for the media, and anything else needed.  “Everyone is working.  Volunteers are calling every day,” says Ellis.

Concern About Chemical Dispersants and Marine Life
Ellis has a perspective unlike most environmentalists given his previous work in the oil industry.  “I spent 20 years working in the oil fields.  I’ve spent time on those rigs.  I have expertise in this field that a lot of environmentalists don’t have.  This is a game changer.  One of the things it’s proven is that the unthinkable can happen.” As part of GRN’s support staff, Ellis focuses on sea turtles, dolphins, whales and other marine life in the Gulf.  He expresses greatest concern about the chemical dispersants being used by BP to break up the oil spill.  “Chemical dispersants break up the oil into smaller pieces.  It’s like putting sugar into water.  They’re emulsifying the oil.  If you were to take a drink you’d taste it.”   Ellis explains the oil is completely mixed into the surrounding water.  “If you are a fish and you’re trying to breathe as it passes through your gills would it cause you problems?” asks Ellis.  “Those dispersants work their way into the food chain.”  Ellis expresses concern about the Bluefin tuna in the Gulf because one of their spawning grounds is located just south of the Deepwater Horizon blowout.   Ellis is also concerned about the natural movement of the waters of the Gulf currents taking place below the surface.  “My concern is what’s below the surface.  Currents vary in the Gulf.  Currents vary like the clouds.  Some go north and higher up.  That oil could be anywhere in the Gulf of Mexico.”

Kathy – A Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Traveling in the Gulf of Mexico
Another type of marine life to be concerned about in the Gulf of Mexico is the sea turtle, and Ellis gives us all a chance to follow the path of a sea turtle currently in the Gulf.   Kathy is a Kemp’s Ridley female sea turtle released into the Gulf of Mexico by biologists at Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) after she laid 102 eggs on Surfside Beach, Texas and was ready to return to the water.  Kathy’s eggs are now on Padre Island National Seashore for incubation and subsequent hatching release after being transported there by biologists.  Meanwhile, anyone can track Kathy’s journey in the Gulf of Mexico.  “She is not too far West of the mouth of the Mississippi”, says Ellis, “She may surface in the middle of an oil slick and not be able to breathe.”   The Kemp’s Ridley is one of five species of sea turtle in the Gulf of Mexico.

In “A Requiem for the Gulf”,  published by The Huffington Post last week, James Moore recounts the creation of a refuge on Padre Island in 1979 for Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles rescued from nesting grounds in Rancho Nuevo, Mexico threatened by the oil spill from the blowout of the Ixtoc.  Could this be the same spot where Kathy’s eggs will hatch?  If so, it is providing safe refuge once again for the Kemp’s Ridley species.

A Role for All Who Love the Gulf of Mexico
“I have great love for the Gulf of Mexico”, says Ellis, “We’re trying to make people aware and make changes in our own lives.  Everyone does have a stake and the opportunity to make something happen.  This is a multigenerational problem.”  As Ellis continues his work, and the rest of the GRN team continues to meet the challenge of this unprecedented crisis, we are thinking about all of the team.  We plan to stay in touch and keep posting about the Gulf Restoration Network and their work.  We’re glad the GRN has been there for 15 years, and we’re glad you’re there now.  Thank you for your work and for saving a place you love.

To learn more about the Gulf Restoration Network and their work, check out their web site.  KissMyCountry will continue to check in with Ellis Pickett and the Gulf Restoration Network as they continue their work in the Gulf.  Watch for our future blog posts, and consider helping the GRN directly.  Thank you!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

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Gulf Restoration Network – Saving the Gulf of Mexico

Monday, June 7th, 2010

“Thanks for your concern about the Gulf of Mexico and the impact of BP’s oil drilling disaster.  The Gulf Restoration Network (GRN) would greatly appreciate being a recipient of your fundraising efforts”.  – Briana Kerstein, Special Projects Coordinator, Gulf Restoration Network

KissMyCountry is proud to announce our support of the Gulf Restoration Network with our Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas t-shirts.   Our support represents our goal to connect with environmental non profits in all 50 states and donate a portion of each t-shirt sold to a state-based group.  KissMyCountry is about saving the places we love and it feels great to show our love for the Gulf of Mexico and the Gulf Restoration Network through our t-shirts.  Enjoy learning more about the work of this dedicated group, thank you for showing your support and thank you for telling your friends!

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Monitoring and Advocating for a Healthy Gulf for Fifteen Years
The Gulf Restoration Network (GRN) is a 15-year old environmental non-profit and the only environmental organization working Gulf-wide in Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas and Florida.  Cyn Sarthou is Executive Director.  The GRN is committed to uniting and empowering people to protect and restore the natural resources of the Gulf Region for future generations.  Staff is based throughout the Gulf Region to monitor environmental conditions in the air, water and on the ground.  Campaigns focus on fishing, healthy waters, species at risk and sustainable practices to save the Gulf and wetlands.  Check out their web site for information, videos, volunteer opportunities and how to donate.

Reporting on the BP Oil Spill from Day One
The GRN was the first group to fly over the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon explosion, and has been providing independent monitoring and advocacy focused on holding BP accountable and ensuring an effective and transparent response to the crisis.   Of great interest is the reporting by staff biologists on the impact of the BP oil spill on birds, animals and marine life in the Gulf Region such as Ellis Pickett on sea turtles and Aaron Viles on sperm whales.  News and commentary about the BP Oil spill are added daily to their site.

Stay Informed, Take Action, and Be Ready for the Long Haul
We’ll all be living with the BP oil spill for a long time – so get ready for the long haul – and thank you for supporting the Gulf Restoration Network if you love the Gulf Region or know someone who does.  Sta informed and take action.  We’re glad the GRN is in place and we know their job just got much larger.  We know we can count on them to keep us informed, and we want the GRN to know they can count on our support through our blog and our t-shirts.  We appreciate the work you do.

KissMyCountry will donate $2.50 to the Gulf Restoration network for each Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi or Texas purchased via our website and through wholesale customers.  Our Florida t-shirt supports the Loggerhead Marine Life Center in Juno Beach, Florida.  T-shirts are available in organic cotton or v-neck and are created ‘on demand’.  We thank you for showing your love for the Gulf Region!

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