Since its inception, RFF has been guided by the principle that any comprehensive conservation strategy must address the human component for widespread adoption of conservation values. As such, RFF recognizes private landowners as stewards of the land, and caretakers of our future natural resources.

61% of our nation’s landscape (71% of the continental U.S.) is in private ownership, yet the overwhelming majority of our public and philanthropic financial resources are focused in public land conservation, ignoring the largest segment of the market needing conservation assistance, tutelage and freedom to innovate.

In designing the scope of the organization and the projects that would support its mission, RFF looked outside of the traditional conservation toolbox at two compelling factors. First, today, when people need information the first place they look is the internet; and second, in our hurried world, the “one-stop-shop” has become king, precisely because it simplifies the process and the steps between customers and the services they need.

Harnessing the power of the internet, RFF developed a now extensive suite of web-based solutions for conservation, supplying landowners with information, supporting conservation professionals, and doing the dirty work of researching and identifying the ingredients to encourage on-the-ground conservation efforts. Additionally, RFF’s websites are designed to speak to landowners in simple, effective language, acknowledging their values and proprietary ownerships and their physical and visceral connections with their lands. RFF does not preach; it provides vital information, contacts and services.

We welcome input, suggestions, recommendations of service providers, criticisms for all our sites. See also our blog:Running Into the Wind