I can't tell y'all how much this means to NASC. Even more important than the money itself, is knowing that the community is behind this project. That all of you understand that this needs to be done and that it will take money to operate.
This is a long-term, very broad-ranged project and we have a long road ahead. So we need all the help we can get. I hope after the auction some of you will come on board to be more active in the process. Each year I hope we can take bigger and bigger strides.
Back in January I was able to see a site that is owned by a man who is building a house on the property. There were loads of Sarracenia on this one block of residential land. At the time, we didn't know if we would have to "rescue" these plants or if they would be able to safely remain. As I looked at them, I was thinking about how much work it would entail to remove them if it came to that--digging, refilling holes, packing the plants, transporting/shipping, etc. Something like that will take a lot of hands and and a certain amount of money.
Thankfully, Ozzy, Head of Conservation, worked with the cooperative landowner and the plants will remain where they are (as long as they stay safe). But this made me realize that at any time, we may be called upon to act to protect these plants so funding is very important.
I hope that the interest and support the auction generates will continue long after everyone has their auction wins.
Just as "it takes a village to rear a child"...it takes a community to ensure that Sarracenia are protected whenever possible and taken into good hands when its a last resort.
I get teary just looking at all the wonderful plants people are giving up for this cause. Then I start drooling when I read the listings.... lol
Y'all ARE the best folks around.