By John Lukas | President, White Oak Conservation Center, Inc.
In spite of ongoing instability in DRC the Okapi Conservation Project continues to support the ICCN rangers in their pursuit of poachers in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. After the attack on ICCN (Institute in Congo for Conservation of Nature) headquarters in Epulu some months ago, ICCN rangers have teamed up with DRC soldiers to track down and apprehend those responsible for that destructive and deadly attack.
The increasing worldwide demand for resources from this forest, including ivory, gold, diamonds and coltan has triggered a dramatic increase in forest intrusion and destruction. With the added burden of people in the forest, the increase in bushmeat poaching is inevitable. ICCN rangers spend their days in harsh conditions as they work through the forest tracking poachers and collecting snares. It is dangerous and grueling work, but each success brings satisfaction to these proud conservation soldiers.
ICCN rangers, and their families, are truly on the front lines of conservation in this World Heritage Site, home to the greatest biodiversity in Africa. Your support goes directly to help these rangers accomplish the important tasks before them.
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