US grant aimed at species conservation: 07-08-2007
The US Fish and Wildlife Service has announced it is to provide almost $6 million (£3 million) in funding to help with the conservation of a number of animal species as well as assist existing programmes in countries spanning four continents, it has been announced.
Meanwhile, contributions from affiliates will ensure that the total investment will be in excess of $14 million (£7 million).
Grants are to be made to support the continued existence of marine turtles, great apes, rhinoceroses, tigers, and Asian and African elephants which are under threat as a result of a variety of factors including poaching, illegal trafficking, human conflict, habitat loss and disease.
In addition, money will be provided to improve education about the plight of the animals in question.
"Too much of the wildlife on our planet is literally under siege," Fish and Wildlife Service director H Dale Hall told NewsBlaze.
"Thanks to efforts like this, I believe we're able to make a significant difference. The high level of interest and participation by our partners is a clear demonstration of public concern. I'm proud that the service is involved."
It is hoped the grants will help boost the number of threatened species - which will be of benefit to travellers to Central America, South America, Africa and Asia regions who hope to spot some of the animals in question.
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