As the 2026 travel season is in full swing, a fundamental shift is redefining the “adventure” in adventure travel. Moving beyond the passive observation of traditional safaris, a new generation of travellers is choosing conservation travel: a model where travellers swap binoculars for data sheets and camera traps.
In an era where biodiversity loss is increasingly linked to multi-faceted global threats, ethical wildlife volunteering has emerged as the most meaningful way to explore the planet. Leading this evolution since 1999 is Biosphere Expeditions, a non-profit organisation whose “citizen science” model has become the industry gold standard for transparency, scientific rigour, and ethical integrity.
Citizen scientists surveying a reef
The Rise of the “Impact Adventurer”
In 2026, the allure of the “unspoiled” is being replaced by the desire to “protect.” Modern travellers are increasingly wary of “voluntourism” (short-term programs that prioritise tourist entertainment over ecological needs). Instead, they are seeking “Impact Adventures”: long-term, science-led initiatives that contribute to real conservation outcomes.
Photographing a whale fluke for ID purposes, Azores
Biosphere Expeditions: A Role Model for 2026
While many operators struggle with transparency, Biosphere Expeditions has spent over 25 years refining a model that puts science first. Their approach serves as a blueprint for the industry through three core pillars:
Financial Transparency: Biosphere Expeditions remains a non-profit, with at least two-thirds of expedition contributions going directly into the project on the ground. This ensures that the local environment and communities (not corporate stakeholders) are the primary beneficiaries.
Sustainable Impact: Every expedition is part of a long-term strategy aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The data collected by volunteers are used by local governments and NGOs to create protected areas and manage wildlife corridors.
Transferring a sedated cheetah to be collared, Namibia
Being part of the solution
“People no longer want to just see the world; they want to ensure the world they see continues to exist,” says Dr. Matthias Hammer, founder of Biosphere Expeditions. “Conservation travel is about bridging the gap between professional science and the passionate amateur. It’s about being part of the solution, not just a witness to the problem.”
Dr. Matthias Hammer, founder of Biosphere Expeditions
Non-profit cruise company marshals support to protect Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, one of the Earth’s last substantially intact temperate rainforests
SEATTLE, April 24, 2026 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – the federal agency that oversees the U.S. Forest Service – announced today its intention to begin logging on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. If the USDA moves forward with this plan, The Boat Company – a 47-year-old non-profit cruise company that operates small-boat cruises in the Alaska’s Inside Passage between the port towns of Sitka and Juneau, is warning that the pristine forestland will not only forever be changed but will also be at increased risk of wildfires and environmental degradation while wildlife in the region will be severely affected.
The proposed project includes reconditioning existing roads and building new roads in the forest as well as logging 1,655 acres of national forestland.
Beginning today, the USDA has launched a 45-day public comment period for the public to voice their opinions about the proposed Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Choices are “no action” (alternative 1), “proposed action” (alternative 2) and “one other action alternative” (alternative 3). The public can review the EIS and supporting documents on the project website here.
“This is a moment for everyone who cherishes their public lands to be loud, quick and strong,” said McIntosh. “The public lands we all own as taxpayers will be irrevocably harmed if this plan is enacted, and even though the USDA seems hell-bent on doing just that, we urge the public to make their disapproval heard. The only alternative is no action.”
The only non-profit cruise company in the world, The Boat Company’s mission is to protect the Tongass National Forest and Southeast Alaska in a variety of ways including funding lawsuits, supporting conservation efforts and promoting stewardship among cruise guests. The company has invested more than $30 million in Alaska conservation.
Called the Twin Mountain II Timber Sale Project, the proposed project will impact land on the Prince of Wales Island west of Ketchikan, Alaska. The two-pronged project will include logging on the Red Bay area on the northern end of the island and the Staney area on the west-central portion of the island.
“This is just the beginning of this administration’s plan to desecrate our public lands by extracting its natural resources, and the impacts of these insidious projects are irreversible,” said McIntosh. “And for what? You must ask yourself who will benefit from this. Certainly not the members of the public who are drawn to public lands for recreation and rest, and certainly not the local communities or the abundant wildlife that roam freely throughout the forest. The only people who benefit will be the companies that profit from the sale of trees that you and I own.”
McIntosh noted that only 121 jobs are estimated to be generated from the project. He also noted that the construction industry has increasingly been turning to more sustainable methods of construction such as using manufactured timber. He also questioned the need for taking trees in an old-growth forest for this purpose.
How to Comment
The public can learn more about the project and submit comments here.
The Roadless Rule
The project is an example of the USDA’s push to rescind the Roadless Rule. In place since 2001, the rule protects some 60 million acres of national forests from road construction, which often leads to logging, mining, wildfires and other impacts that can decimate wilderness areas including forests and grasslands. About 30 percent of all U.S. forests in 38 states and Puerto Rico are protected by the rule.
One of the forests likely to be the most affected is the 17-million-acre Tongass National Forest. Before the Roadless Rule was put in place, logging companies employed clearcutting practices that decimated the forestland. Companies harvested forest’s old-growth trees, primarily for their valuable pulp, resulting in significant habitat loss and environmental degradation and negatively impacting wildlife and local communities.
Once the rule was in place, however, the forest made a slow but significant comeback. Today, visitors see abundant wildlife that thrive in the healthy ecosystems as well as natural features like glaciers, waterfalls and wildflowers.
The general public is strongly in favor of maintaining the rule. Some organizations estimated that as many as 99 percent of commenters during last year’s brief public comment period that ended on Sept. 19 strongly favored the rule.
“Although the administration is aggressively pushing to repeal this important protection, the public has been clear that it does not support that move,” said McIntosh. “We urge everyone – including anyone who commented last year – to firmly state that they favor protection of the forests we all love.”
About The Boat Company
The Boat Company operates two vessels – the 12-stateroom Mist Cove and 10-stateroom Liseron – from mid-May through mid-September. The seven-day cruises between Sitka and Juneau, Alaska feature an array of adventures including fishing, guided hiking, wildlife viewing and kayaking. There are also entertaining and educational presentations by the crew’s trained naturalist guides. On-board chefs prepare memorable meals using high-quality ingredients and locally sourced food.
The company was recently honored by Travel + Leisure magazine with a Global Vision Award for its eco-friendly cruises. The company was also recently profiled – along with a spokesperson from Earthjustice – in this Forbes story. The Boat Company’s mission as a non-profit was also highlighted in this recent Charity Charge podcast.
Reservations for cruises can by made by visiting The Boat Company’s website or calling 1-360-697-4242. More information about The Boat Company is available here.
Founded in 1979, The Boat Company is a non-profit, conservation-focused luxury cruise operator specializing in sustainable tourism in Southeast Alaska. Through unique itineraries and a commitment to environmental stewardship, The Boat Company offers transformative travel experiences while advocating for the preservation of the Tongass National Forest.
Boulder, CO, April 21, 2026 – Natural Habitat Adventures (Nat Hab), one of the world’s leading conservation travel companies, has formed a new relationship with Earthwatch Institute to run Earthwatch Expeditions, a global leader in field-based participatory science.
Following the signing of a long-term licensing agreement finalized in February 2026, Nat Hab has assumed management of Earthwatch Expeditions travel operations and will introduce 13 new itineraries under a revised brand, Earthwatch Expeditions by Nat Hab, to begin in 2027. Additional trips are planned in the years to come, for a total of approximately 20 destinations.
The collaboration brings together Nat Hab’s expertise in delivering outstanding wildlife experiences with Earthwatch’s depth and leadership in participatory science.
“For more than 50 years, Earthwatch has connected people directly with working scientists conducting some of the most important field research on the planet,” said Ben Bressler, Founder and CEO of Natural Habitat Adventures. “Long before I founded Nat Hab, Earthwatch showed me that travel could be a genuine force for conservation.
“At a time when science and data matter more than ever in shaping the policies that protect our planet, this kind of hands-on research is critical. Together, we’re building on a legacy that has helped inform more than 1,200 environmental policies and wildlife management plans worldwide, backed by long-term research efforts that reflect a commitment to meaningful conservation.”
Guests on Earthwatch Expeditions play an integral role in scientific field research addressing pressing environmental challenges, from ecosystem health and threatened wildlife habitats to climate impacts and biodiversity protection. Under Nat Hab’s stewardship, each journey blends hands-on research with active exploration, balancing study time in the field with immersive nature experiences.
Working in small groups alongside Ph.D. scientists and their research teams, travelers collect real-world data through experiences like monitoring sea turtle nests in Costa Rica, documenting dolphin nurseries at the headwaters of the Amazon, banding owls by headlamp in the American Southwest, and deploying GPS tags on penguins along the coast of Patagonia.
Six itineraries are bookable now for travel in 2027, including:
From Permafrost to Polar Bears: Churchill’s Changing Arctic, studying climate change at the Arctic’s edge while tracking ecosystem shifts across the tundra and Hudson Bay
Following Orcas & Their Prey in Iceland, tracking the diet and movements of this apex predator in a changing North Atlantic
Conserving Sharks in Belize, working where commercial fisheries and shark protection converge, to shape the ocean’s future
Monitoring Wildlife Recovery in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, tracking animals while rebuilding ecosystems and reconnecting wildlife corridors with international scientists and a local Maasai community
Tracking Turtles in Costa Rica, helping endangered leatherback sea turtles rebound from a precipitous decline
Surveying Wildlife in the Upper Amazon, monitoring how seasonal river shifts affect wildlife movement and behavioral patterns
Seven more 2027 Earthwatch Expeditions by Nat Hab will be announced this summer, including programs such as:
Climate change in Maine’s Acadia National Park
Conserving wild bees and other pollinators in Costa Rica
Following forest owls in Arizona
Collecting wildlife data on foot in South Africa
Tracking primates in Africa
Marine life of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula
Studying polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba
Established in 1971, Earthwatch Expeditions has built one of the world’s most respected participatory field research networks, conducting more than 100,000 hours of study annually on topics ranging from climate change and wildlife conservation to rainforest ecology and marine ecosystems. Since its founding, Earthwatch Expeditions has contributed to thousands of peer-reviewed publications and environmental policies, with projects supported for an average of 12 years. More than 200,000 traveler participants have been engaged as field research assistants.
Stan Rullman, Director of Research for Earthwatch Expeditions, said, “I am thrilled to see these two apex institutions—Nat Hab and Earthwatch—join in a synergistic collaboration that will honor our independent legacies while allowing something new and powerful to emerge. We come together with shared core values, incredibly dedicated staff and scientists, and complementary skill sets to truly move the bar on wildlife conservation and the preservation of biodiversity in all its forms.”
Bressler added, “This partnership is rooted in shared purpose. At Nat Hab, we’ve spent decades proving that travel can support conservation. And Earthwatch has done the same through science. Together, we’re giving travelers a meaningful way to be part of that work.”
Earthwatch Expeditions by Nat Hab connects travelers with scientists worldwide to participate in real conservation research. Operating under a long-term partnership with Earthwatch Institute, the program builds on more than 50 years of field-based participatory science, bringing together scientific discovery and immersive travel. These small-group expeditions invite guests into the field to work alongside leading researchers in critical ecosystems across the globe, contributing to real-world studies that help better understand and protect the planet. Each expedition blends hands-on data collection with immersive wildlife experiences, offering travelers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful scientific studies while gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world. For more information, visit nathab.com/earthwatch-expeditions.
Natural Habitat Adventures has been a trailblazer in sustainable and conservation-focused adventure travel since 1985. Led by professional naturalist guides, Nat Hab journeys reveal the planet’s most extraordinary nature destinations, including polar bear tours in Churchill, small-group Galapagos cruises, intimate African safaris, close encounters with Alaskan brown bears, wolf quests in Yellowstone, and much more. As the world’s first 100% carbon-neutral travel company, creator of the World’s First Zero Waste Adventure, and the conservation travel partner of World Wildlife Fund since 2003, Nat Hab offers nearly 100 eco-conscious nature adventures from Antarctica to Zimbabwe and beyond. Natural Habitat Adventures is part of Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, a global leader in ship-based and land-based expedition travel. To date, Nat Hab has provided more than $9 million in support of WWF’s mission and will continue to give 1% of gross sales plus $185,000 annually through 2028. Featuring unique and artfully crafted itineraries, Nat Hab trips demonstrate how conservation travel works with and benefits local communities, furthering a shared commitment to conservation. Nat Hab actively seeks ways tourism can lower its impact on the planet while raising global citizens’ appreciation for the wonders of nature. For more information, visit nathab.com.
Expedition cruise enthusiasts can save significantly on early-season eco-cruises in Alaska with The Boat Company next May.
SEATTLE – Expedition cruise enthusiasts can save significantly on early-season eco-cruises to Alaska with The Boat Company next May.
The award-winning non-profit cruise line’s six-night cruises between Juneau and Sitka, Alaska are priced at $6,250 per person, double occupancy on cruises launching May 10 and May 17, and $8,250 per person for double occupancy on the May 24 and May 31 launches. Per person double occupancy pricing on cruises for the rest of the season, beginning June 7 and ending Sept. 12, is $12,500.
Marking its 46th year in 2026, The Boat Company’s ultra-luxury cruises feature small ships with 10 or 12 staterooms, customized daily adventures in Southeast Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, daily culinary feasts prepared from locally sourced fish and other ingredients and a high staff-to-guest ratio to ensure that every guest experiences the adventure of their dreams.
The Boat Company operates two vessels. The 145-foot-long M/V Liseron accommodates 20 passengers in 10 cabins and is serviced by a crew of 12. The 157-foot-long M/V Mist Cove features 12 staterooms accommodating 24 passengers and a crew of 13. The boats embark in either Sitka or Juneau, depending on the week.
Both vessels feature comfortable main salons, entertainment centers, libraries, dining areas and observation lounges. Staterooms have queen beds with an upper bunk, and the M/V Mist Cove also has two staterooms with two twin beds. All cabins have temperature controls, built-in wardrobes, dressers, picture frame windows and private baths with sink, mirror, toilet and shower stall.
“May can be one of the best times of the year to see early-season wildflowers as well as wildlife like costal brown bears, spawning salmon, and marine species like whales, sea lions and sea otters,” said Hunter McIntosh, president and executive director of The Boat Company. “With fewer ships during those first few weeks of cruise season, guests can also be assured of an intimate natural experience and few crowds as the wilderness transitions from winter to spring.”
Cruises are booking fast, with some sails already sold out for the 2026 season, McIntosh added.
Named the “Best Expedition Cruise Line” by World Cruise Awards, The Boat Company cruises feature intimate adventures with an emphasis on sustainable practices and high-touch experiences in the company of engaging naturalist guides. Guests can choose daily naturalist-led adventures such as an all-morning salmon trolling trip, fly fishing trips, guided hikes and wildlife- and glacier-focused skiff tours. A guest coordinator helps passengers craft customized daily adventures based on their interests.
The cruises are also known for exceptional cuisine with on-board chefs who prepare daily meals using high-quality ingredients and locally sourced food. For example, seafood such as salmon, halibut, lingcod and black cod is sourced from the Seafood Producers Cooperative (SPC), a Sitka-based angler-owned organization that prioritizes ethical fishing. Chefs also prepare hydroponically grown greens.
Founded in 1979, The Boat Company is a non-profit, conservation-focused luxury cruise operator specializing in sustainable tourism in Southeast Alaska. Through special itineraries and a commitment to environmental stewardship, The Boat Company offers transformative travel experiences while advocating for the preservation of the Tongass National Forest.
The Boat Company pursues its mission to protect the Tongass National Forest and Southeast Alaska in a variety of ways including funding lawsuits, supporting conservation efforts and promoting stewardship among cruise guests. The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States, covering most of Southeast Alaska.
NEW YORK, NY –In Slovenia, the diversity of natural landscapes stretches across the country, from the alpine peaks towering at 2,000 meters and the Adriatic Sea coastline, to the richness of thermal waters in the Pannonian region and the sunny hillsides where vineyards thrive.
One-third of Slovenian territory belongs to a protected area, with forest cover reaching nearly 60%. The rich biodiversity includes over 22,000 species of animals and plants, along with more than 13,000 underground karst caves.
Slovenia holds the distinction of being the world’s first country to be entirely declared a Green Destination of the World. It is also the third most forested country in Europe and one of the countries with the most water in the world, boasting 27,000 kilometers of waterways, around 300 waterfalls, and numerous natural lakes and crystal-clear streams.
Mindful of the responsibility for their natural and cultural heritage, Slovenians strive to preserve their environment through sustainable projects, educational policies, as well as by promoting sustainable tourism experiences.
Slovenia’s longstanding commitment to sustainable tourism positions the country as a significant player in the United Nations’ designation of 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, potentially serving as a model for global destinations.
Responsible Holidays with Green providers: The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism, the seal that endorses commitment to the environment
The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism was one of the first projects in Europe to promote sustainability in tourism and serves as a model for many other countries. The European Travel Commission (ETC) has adopted the Green Scheme as a basis for developing sustainable guidelines for European destinations.
The Slovenia Green label awarded environmentally conscious entities including tourist agencies, natural parks, accommodations, travel agencies, restaurants, and beaches. Divided into five distinct categories, the green label boasts a membership of over 300 establishments. Visitors to Slovenia can place their trust in providers bearing the SLOVENIA GREEN label, as they undergo rigorous international assessments ensuring both quality and sustainability.
Nestled within the Julian Alps, Triglav National Park celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, marking a century of conservation efforts since its establishment in 1924. The centennial celebrations highlight the importance of protection for ensuring the existence of natural and cultural assets for future generations. The slogan “Protection Ensures Existence” underscores the ongoing need to balance conservation with development while preserving the park’s pristine beauty and biodiversity.
The list of the World’s Natural and Cultural Heritage comprises two natural and three cultural sites. Additionally, Slovenia boasts seven distinct features of intangible cultural heritage included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as beekeeping, the breeding of elegant white Lipizzan horses, and the art of dry-stone walling, to name just a few.
Slovenia’s presence extends to other UNESCO programs as well, including the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, the Global Network of Geoparks, and the UNESCO List of Written Cultural Heritage, known as the Memory of the World.
Among the two UNESCO natural sites, Slovenia boasts the enigmatic Škocjan Caves, home to the largest subterranean canyon in Europe, towering at 146 meters high, and the primal beech forests of the Carpathian Mountains and other European regions, which represent the most preserved remnants of beech forests.
While Idrija preserves the world heritage associated with mercury extraction, Slovenia safeguards the protected world heritage of prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps, with around 40 locations discovered in the Ljubljana Marshes. A significant discovery is a 5,200-year-old wheel, considered the oldest wooden wheel with an axle globally.
In Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, the works of architect Jože Plečnik have bestowed a distinctive visual identity upon the city. His architectural masterpieces, which grace the city’s skyline, have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
Green Mindset, Healthy Tourism and Gastronomic Fresh World-Class Cuisine
Slovenia promotes a healthy lifestyle by encouraging bicycle or train travel, self-care through connection with nature, and enjoyment of local, homemade, and authentic foods. Under the motto “from farm to table,” Slovenia stands out for its diverse range of fresh products and natural ingredients offered in world-class restaurants, local markets, and agritourism farms.
For more information on Green Slovenia to celebrate Earth’s Day, follow this link.
Nestled in the heart of Europe, where the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst meet, Slovenia offers several year-round exciting experiences. This captivating country is deeply committed to sustainability and stands as a pioneer in sustainability and offers a tapestry of unique and unforgettable stories, which unfold either in pristine nature or in charming towns and include unforgettable outdoor adventures, spa pampering, getaways filled with rich culture, art and tradition, and last but not least, superb gastronomy crafted from local, fresh ingredients. Especially in recent years, Slovenia has risen in popularity among gourmands and foodies, also thanks to the prestigious Michelin Guide, which has solidified Slovenia’s global culinary presence. With an impressive number of 9 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one with three stars and another with two, along with seven one-star restaurants, Slovenia stands among the 146 countries with three-star recognition. Remarkably, only 8 of these restaurants are led by female chefs, and Ana Roš from Hiša Franko is among them.
Lindblad Expeditions celebrated the blessing of National Geographic Islander ll before its inaugural Galapagos voyage. Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen, commended Lindblad Expeditions as a “great example of how to use tourism as a vehicle for conservation and development.”
NEW YORK, NY, AUGUST 3, 2022 — Lindblad Expeditions celebrated the official blessing of the newest addition to their award-winning fleet, National Geographic Islander ll in Salinas, Ecuador this past weekend. Attendees included Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen, and Gustavo Manrique, Minister of the Environment, Water and Ecological Transition, industry colleagues, local partners, and members of Lindblad’s beloved crew. The 26-suite best-in-class expedition vessel will make her inaugural Galápagos voyage on August 19, 2022, for year-round expeditions in the islands.
The traditional blessing was administered by a local priest, followed by short speeches from the Ministries and a toast offered by Ana Esteves, Lindblad’s Vice President of Hotel Operations, and ship Captain Gonzalo Cifuentes. Both Ministers’ speeches highlighted Lindblad’s commitment to Galápagos and conservation.
“Lindblad Expeditions is a great example of how to use tourism as a vehicle for conservation and development — how they are buying supplies from the local communities, employing people from Ecuador to connect with the local cultures, and introducing their guests to our amazing cuisine,” stated Minister Olsen.
Minister Manrique applauded “this kind of investment in Ecuador that is something between tourism, investigation, science, and education” and thanked Lindblad for “trusting in Ecuador.”
Guests enjoyed Ecuadorian cuisine, and tours of the 48-guest vessel that showcased her elegantly appointed suites, bridge, the Science Hub, the Global Gallery, new Marina, impressive Observation Deck, and ship wide enhancements that will elevate the Lindblad guest experience to an entirely new level.
The event was followed the next day by a special reception for members of the ship’s crew and officers, capped off by an exuberant welcome by dozens of small fishing boats in the area for the local Santa Rosa festivities.
“We pioneered expedition travel in Galápagos, and National Geographic Islander ll is truly the best of both worlds,” stated Ana Esteves, Vice President of Hotel Operations. “She’s gracious like a private yacht, offers space and comfort, a culinary program that highlights the regions of Ecuador with locally sourced ingredients, a spa and a 1-1 guest-to-crew ratio. But she is also a world class expedition vessel designed for active exploration, with a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom Zodiac, snorkel gear for all guests, and a flotilla of Zodiacs. We are so ready to head to the Galápagos Islands and could not be more excited,”
For reservations or additional information on Lindblad Expeditions voyages to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places on Earth, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1-800-EXPEDITION (1-800-397-3348) or contact your travel advisor.
As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s effort to better protect, conserve, and restore the lands and waters that sustain the health of communities and power our economy, President Biden is signing three proclamations restoring protections for Bears Ears, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Monuments. By restoring these national monuments, which were significantly cut back during the previous administration, President Biden is fulfilling a key promise and upholding the longstanding principle that America’s national parks, monuments, and other protected areas are to be protected for all time and for all people.
The President’s protection of these three national monuments is among a series of steps the Administration has taken to restore protections to some of America’s most cherished lands and waters, many of which are sacred to Tribal Nations. The Administration has halted leasing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, committed to restore protections for the Tongass National Forest under the Roadless Rule, and initiated the process to protect Bristol Bay and the world-class salmon fishery it supports. The Great Lakes, the Chesapeake Bay, the Everglades, the Columbia River Basin, and dozens of other special places are also back on America’s conservation agenda.
The Biden-Harris Administration’s land, water, ocean, and wildlife conservation efforts are critical to solving the climate crisis, protecting public health, promoting wildlife and biodiversity, and rebuilding America’s economy. As part of his Build Back Better Agenda, the President has proposed the creation of a new Civilian Climate Corps, which would partner with unions in putting to work a new generation that looks like America – with good benefits and pay – on the path to family-supporting careers in fields restoring the health of our public lands, coasts, waters, and forests, advancing environmental justice, and helping communities better prepare for the impacts of a changing climate. The President has also set the first-ever national conservation goal, which the Administration is pursuing by supporting locally-led and voluntary conservation efforts across the country and creating more equitable access to the outdoors, including by investing in urban parks.
President Biden’s action to restore Bears Ears, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Monuments is consistent with recommendations from Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, who – with the support of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Justice, and the White House Council on Environmental Quality – reviewed the actions of the previous administration that drastically reduced protections for these places. As part of this review, Biden-Harris Administration leaders met with Members of Congress, state and local government officials, representatives of Tribal Nations, and a wide range of stakeholders. Secretary Haaland also visited Utah to directly meet with local residents and tour the area. After gathering information and input, the Department of the Interior provided the President a report with recommendations on future protection for the areas.
“These protections provide a bridge to our past, but they also build a bridge to a safer, more sustainable future — one where we strengthen our economy and pass on a healthy planet to our children and our grandchildren,” President Biden said at the signing ceremony.
The specific actions that President Biden is taking are:
Restoring the Bears Ears National Monument to the boundaries established by President Obama on December 28, 2016 and retaining protections for an additional 11,200 acres added by President Trump in 2017. Restoring these protections will conserve a multitude of sites that are culturally and spiritually important to Tribal Nations— including petroglyphs, pictographs, cultural sites, dwellings, and areas used for traditional rituals, gatherings, and tribal practices — as well as paleontological objects, landscape features, historic objects, and plant and animal species. Restoring the Monument’s boundaries and conditions restores its integrity, upholds efforts to honor the federal trust responsibility to Tribal Nations, and conserves these lands and waters for future generations. With this action, the total protected area of Bears Ears National Monument is 1.36 million acres.
In restoring the Bears Ears National Monument, the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring that there is adequate staffing and resources to appropriately protect the area’s natural and cultural resources, to manage the increased visitation that the area continues to experience, and to make Bears Ears a model for Tribal participation in the management of the Monument. The Bureau of Land Management plans to assign additional rangers to the region; install appropriate signage and infrastructure to inform and support visitors; begin working with local communities, the State of Utah, and Tribal leaders on assessing the potential opportunity for a Bears Ears visitors center that highlights the monument’s cultural resources; and support the Bears Ears Intertribal Commission’s participation in management of the National Monument.
Restoring Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to the boundaries that were in place on January 20, 2017. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument was first protected in 1996, and as described in Proclamation 6920, the landscape holds world-class geological objects of historic or scientific interest, including the Grand Staircase, White and Vermilion Cliffs, Kaiparowits Plateau, Escalante Natural Bridge, Grosvenor Arch, and numerous other enumerated geologic objects. The Monument also contains vast paleontological objects including significant fossils of marine and brackish water mollusks, turtles, crocodilians, lizards, dinosaurs, fishes, and mammals, as well as a host of cultural objects associated with both ancient indigenous cultures and early Latter-Day Saint pioneers, including, but not limited to, petroglyphs and pictographs, occupation sites, campsites, granaries, and trails. The Monument also contains hanging gardens, tinajas, and rock crevice, canyon bottom, and dunal pocket communities, protecting the region’s unusual and diverse soils, endemic plants and pollinators, relic vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Restoring the Monument’s conditions and boundaries will restore its integrity, support the continued scientific exploration as outlined in Proclamation 6920, protect our shared lands and waters for future generations, and continue this administration’s historic efforts to honor the Federal trust responsibility. The total protected area of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is restored to 1.87 million acres.
Restoring protections to the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, as established by President Obama on September 15, 2016. The Monument is composed of two units, the Canyons Unit and the Seamounts Unit, each of which showcases unique geological features that anchor vulnerable ecological communities threatened by varied uses, climate change, and related impacts. Under the restored protections, commercial fishing in the National Monument will be prohibited, with fishing for red crab and American lobster to be phased out by September 15, 2023. Consistent with President Obama’s Proclamation 9496, recreational fishing in the National Monument may continue.
The Monument includes Oceanographer, Gilbert, and Lydonia canyons; and Bear, Mytilus, Physalia, and Retriever seamounts. Restoring the Monument’s conditions will restore its integrity, expand the opportunity for unique scientific study and exploration, and protect and preserve natural and cultural resources for all Americans. With this action, the management conditions directed in Proclamation 9496 for the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Monument, which is composed of 4,913 square horizontal miles, vertically encompassing the water column above, will resume.
NEW YORK –Observing animals in their habitats around the world can be a life changing experience for not just animal lovers but intrepid travelers of any age. Tour operator members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) are committed to offering wildlife-focused itineraries and small group trips that contribute to the conservation and protection of species, while offering access for travelers to learn from nature.
“Explorers who are searching for enriching nature-based experiences need to look no further than our tour operator members, who offer sustainable wildlife experiences and open-air excursions from Thailand and Norway to Tanzania and Russia, and many more destinations around the globe,”said Terry Dale, president and CEO of USTOA.
Birdwatching in Costa Rica – The tailor-made 13-day itinerary from Audley Travel showcases Costa Rica’s pristine tropical forest trails and the tranquil cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota. Home to 448 species of birds, the trip offers a naturalist guide and a stay at the renowned birding lodge, Rancho Naturalista. Rates start at $5,410 per person. Find information on departures at www.audleytravel.com.
The Great Migration + Gorillas in the Wild – On a Gorilla Trek with Alexander + Roberts, guests will observe gorilla families living in the forested mountains of Rwanda. A hot air balloon adventure is available to watch zebra, gazelle, and more from above at the 5,700 square mile Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The twin lakes of Buerra and Ruhondo offer a variety of birdlife. Departure is available on September 20, 2021 starting at $12,499 per person. www.alexanderroberts.com
Exploring Russia’s Far East & Wrangel Island – A 13-day exploration with Lindblad Expeditions of the remote Siberian coastline reveals bird cliffs teeming with puffins and landscapes that are home to walrus and polar bears. Even grey whales can be spotted in their feeding grounds while cruising through the Chukchi and Bering Seas. Departures are available on August 3 and August 15, 2021, and August 7, 2022 starting at $17,830 per person. www.expeditions.com
Sri Lanka Expedition: Wilderness & Wildlife – AAA Club Adventures offers 12-days of nature in Sri Lanka. Guests will visit Project Orange Elephant, dedicated to sustainable farming practices and wildlife conservation, and stay at an eco-lodge in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve to see monkeys, big cats, and more in their tropical habitat. Departure is available on September 3, 2021 starting at $1,890. www.clubadventures.com
Intro to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife of Svalbard – Quark Expeditions’ 10-day journey through Spitsbergen, also known as the wildlife capital of the Arctic, showcases walruses, reindeer, polar bears, and more in their natural habitat. Guests will learn the history and geology of this remote land while traveling by ship. Departure is available June 12, 2021 starting at $7,495 per person. www.quarkexpeditions.com
Representing nearly $19 billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow 9.8 million travelers annually unparalleled access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business. As a voice for the tour operator industry for more than 40 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.
The female baby black rhino, born to mother, Queenie, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Lion World Travel and The TreadRight Foundation are inviting travelers to name the newborn endangered black rhino to win a luxury safari.
Cypress, Calif. – Lion World Travel and The TreadRight Foundation are calling on American travelers to help name a rare female baby rhino, discovered by their project partner, Wilderness Foundation Africa on a reserve in South Africa. Submissions will be accepted online from November 17, 2020 to December 1, 2020, and those who share their suggestions will be eligible to win 3 free nights at Shamwari Game Reserve, a luxury safari and game lodge destination in South Africa’s ecologically and culturally significant Eastern Cape Province.
Included as part of the judging panel is Ami Vitale, TreadRight’s ‘Wildlife’ Ambassador and award-winning National Geographic magazine photographer who captured the final moments of Sudan, the world’s last male northern white rhino alive on the planet in Kenya.
The Eastern Cape Province in South Africa is home to the third largest endangered black rhino population in the world, and evidence shows it is currently a high-risk target for poachers.
Because rhinos prefer thick vegetation, aerial surveillance is necessary and plays a critical part in both wildlife security, and in tracking and improving the management of rhino populations. Lion World Travel is a founding partner of The TreadRight Foundation which is invested in protecting and rehabilitating the world’s wildlife by partnering with leading wildlife organizations, through its Wildlife Pillar. Since 2017, TreadRight has partnered with Wilderness Foundation Africa to aid in rhino conservation efforts by funding the purchase and operations of a Bat Hawk – a light aircraft used to monitor and protect rhinos from poaching in provincial nature reserves and national parks in the Eastern Cape. The regular surveillance through monitoring flights by the Bat Hawk in the known rhino poaching hotspots is contributing to the safekeeping of this endangered population.
Since the start of 2020, 19 new rhino calves have been discovered and protected within the rhino population, 11 of which were first detected in the TreadRight-funded Bat Hawk. As a thank you, Wilderness Foundation Africa has given Lion World Travel and TreadRight the invaluable honor of naming one of these precious new rhino calves.
“The preservation of the rhino population is absolutely paramount to keeping a healthy balance alive within Africa’s ecosystem,” said Lucille Sive, CEO of The Travel Corporation’s African Division.“Through our work, safeguarding wildlife is a priority and we are absolutely humbled by this meaningful opportunity to play a part in the naming of a precious rhino as we continue to make travel matter.”
Lion World Travel and TreadRight’s support of Wilderness Foundation Africa work to advance the United Nations Global Goal 15, Life on Land, through its joint effort in combatting poaching and trafficking of rhinos that are vital to this ecosystem, as well as Global Goal 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, through its employment of intelligence and police support for specialized wildlife crime units, contributing to a higher employment rate.
After the name submissions are received, Lucille Siva, CEO of Lion World Travel will select the shortlisted names and Ami Vitale will be making the final decision. The winning name will be chosen and announced on Friday, Dec. 4 and the winner will receive 3 free nights at Shamwari Game Reserve, a luxury safari and game lodge destination in South Africa’s ecologically and culturally significant Eastern Cape Province.
For more information on TreadRight’s conversation efforts, its work around the world and how you can help #MakeTravelMatter, visit TreadRight.org.
Terms and Conditions: Prize is non-transferable and awarded “as is”, with no substitutions. One winner will be selected, based on the final Rhino name selection. If multiple people entered the same name, one winner will be randomly drawn from all of those entries. Only entries received through the official contest entry form are valid. Preference will be given to names that relate to Africa and/or reflect our Make Travel Matter ethos. Contest period runs from November 17-December 1, 2020. Prize must be booked by August 31, 2021, for travel by December 15, 2021 and is subject to availability and blackout dates. Winner will be contacted by email. Lion World Travel is not responsible for any technical difficulties experienced during the contest. Void where prohibited by law
Lion World Travel is a leading tour operator from North America specializing in group and individual tours to Southern and East Africa and is a member of TTC , which also includes: Trafalgar Tours, Contiki, Brendan Vacations, Insight Vacations, The Red Carnation Hotel Collection and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Clients continue to benefit from Lion World Travels’ destination knowledge, expertise, and emphasis on customer service. With their Africa Specialists all having first-hand knowledge of Africa, Lion World Travel confidently assists clients in creating an African adventure that fits their interests and budget. Extraordinary service, affordable luxury and value for money are what keep clients coming back to Lion World Travel.
The TreadRight Foundation is a joint not-for-profit initiative established by The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands. TreadRight sets the direction on sustainability for 40 award-winning brands, in addition to overseeing our TreadRight Foundation. The organization’s singular mission is to #MakeTravelMatter through brand operations, and by providing support to community-based projects worldwide that safeguard the planet, people and wildlife. To date, the foundation has supported 55+ sustainable tourism projects in 280+ communities worldwide, based on priorities set by the TreadRight Steering Committee. Past project partners include WWF, Conservation International, WildAid and The National Trust in the UK, while current initiatives include Manitobah Mukluks Storyboot School, Wilderness Foundation Africa and Wildlife SOS. TreadRight also works with inspiring ambassadors who have a passion for sustainable travel, to support its voice within the sustainable travel community. These ambassadors include Céline Cousteau (‘Planet’ Ambassador), Sarain Fox (‘People’ Ambassador), Ami Vitale (‘Wildlife’ Ambassador) and Costas Christ. To learn more about past and current work at TreadRight, visit TreadRight.org and follow TreadRight on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter using the hashtag #MakeTravelMatter.
“We will make travel matter – for our planet, for people and for wildlife. We have taken the pledge, now we invite you to join us.”
Wilderness Foundation Africa works from its base in South Africa to protect and sustain wildlife and wilderness through integrated conservation and education programs. Whether it is direct action anti-poaching in the field, large landscape wilderness management, or developing rising young leaders from disadvantaged communities for a career in conservation, the Wilderness Foundation has over 45 years of results. For more information, visit WildernessFoundation.co.za and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
During these extraordinary times, more and more Americans are seeking to escape their homes and spend time in the great outdoors. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, has just formed a marketing partnership with the National Park Foundation (NPF), the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. The introduction of a dedicated travel planning website makes it simple for members to take advantage of discounted rates for stays at Marriott’s 406 properties located near national parks, as well as the option to redeem points for America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes and to donate points to the NPF. The website will also provide travel tips and inspiration from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, offering trip planning guides from local experts.
Drive-to vacations and getaways serve as a popular option for Americans looking to embark on local adventures. According to the National Park Foundation, most Americans live within 100 miles of a national park. With 419 national park sites in the United States–and at least one national park in every state–Marriott Bonvoy members can plan a national park road trip earning points for stays at Marriott properties throughout their journey toward free nights for future trips and qualifying nights toward elite status.
“In 1916, legislation creating the National Park Service was enacted. The noble vision behind the act has provided generations of Americans and visitors abroad the gift of experiencing our country’s greatest treasures,” said Brian King, Global Officer, Digital, Distribution, Revenue Strategy & Global Sales, Marriott International. “We are thrilled to offer Marriott Bonvoy members a convenient way to plan road trips and explore historical sites and national wonders with their friends and families with this one-of-a-kind travel partnership. The opportunity to experience breathtaking scenery in pristine wilderness settings while giving back to the National Park Foundation is invaluable and will help preserve parks for future adventure seekers.”
Examples of Marriott properties near national parks include Springhill Suites Springdale Zion National Park in Utah and Courtyard Gatlinburg Downtown and Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Members can easily plan their national park getaways by visiting the website. From there, they can access travel-related articles from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, book their desired property and receive the best member rates which start as low as $99 per night, redeem points for annual park passes and donate up to $500 worth of points to the National Park Foundation. Donations will help NPF in its mission to protect and enhance America’s national parks for current and future generations.
“National parks have something for everyone, and we can all play a role in helping to preserve them,” said Stefanie Mathew, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at the National Park Foundation. “The National Park Foundation is thankful to Marriott Bonvoy for not only offering members a nearby place to rest their head after a day full of park adventures, but also the support to help ensure these treasured natural and cultural sites are protected now and into the future.”
America’s national parks offer endless opportunities for enjoyment for everyone from first time visitors to experienced park enthusiasts. For the best experience possible, travelers should #RecreateResponsibly and plan ahead by visiting the National Park Service website.
For travelers who are not members of Marriott Bonvoy but want to take advantage of the discounted member rates, Marriott Bonvoy is free and easy to join here.
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, comprises the company’s portfolio of 30 hotel brands and home rental offering Homes & Villas by Marriott International. Members can earn and redeem points for stays and accelerate the points they earn with co-branded credit cards from JP Morgan Chase and American Express. The program offers exclusive member experiences and destination tours and adventures on Marriott Bonvoy Moments. When members book direct on Marriott.com they receive perks including free and enhanced Wi-Fi and exclusive member-only rates, and on the Marriott app they enjoy mobile check-in and checkout, Mobile Requests and, wherever available, Mobile Key.
Members earn points when staying at any of the more than 7,400 participating hotels globally. They can redeem points toward free nights at Marriott International brands ranging from The Ritz-Carlton, The St. Regis, W Hotels, Marriott Hotels and Westin to Aloft, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard and Residence Inn. In addition, members residing in the U.S. can accelerate the number of points they can earn and enjoy other benefits with co-branded credit cards from JPMorgan Chase and American Express. Members also achieve higher levels of elite status and benefits the more nights they stay at participating hotels. To learn more and enroll in Marriott Bonvoy, visit https://www.marriott.com/loyalty/member-benefits/member.mi.
To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s national parks and nonprofit partner to the National Park Service. Chartered by Congress in 1967, the National Park Foundation raises private funds to help protect more than 84 million acres of national parks through critical conservation and preservation efforts and connect all Americans with their incomparable natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Find out more and become a part of the national park community.
