The natural areas movement began during the early 1970s in response to the post-war economic boom of the 50s and 60s as people passionate about land began to encourage the government to set aside nature preserves and to create programs for ongoing stewardship.
Success in land and water conservation is only realized when those who manage the land have access to timely, relevant, and effective research, strategies and methods. It was this truth that led George B. Fell to establish the NAA in the early 1970’s, and this need inspired the first Natural Areas Conference in October 1974 fifty years ago and remains NAA’s mission today.
Together, we have met for conferences, roundtables, webinars, and field workshops to advance science-based management practices to conserve and enhance ecologically significant natural landscapes.
NAA is your resource for quality conservation science and peer-to-peer sharing across federal, state, local, academic, tribal, nonprofit and private entities. We are committed to sharing the content you need wherever you are located, wherever you are in your career, and wherever you are in your practice.
NAA’s YouTube Channel provides high-quality, science-based resources and programs to share conservation science and cutting-edge research. The goal? To sustain resilient, functioning ecosystems that harbor biodiversity for future generations. Searchable by topic, many of these programs are publicly available for the first time!
There have been a lot of photos taken during the past 50 years! Our priority is photos of practitioners and natural areas movement leaders. Specifically, if you have photos from past Natural Areas Conferences; however, photos from other gatherings are welcome as well. Don’t forget to include the location, date, and names of those in the picture! We would love to expand the NAA photo archives
Digital and print photos welcome! UPLOAD HERE or contact Sarah Floyd, sfloyd@naturalareas.org. She will be happy to assist you.
We all have a story to tell and we want to learn more about NAA through the years and the natural areas movement through your experience. Whether your story includes the early days of the natural areas movement or a success or challenge along the way. Don’t be shy! We want to hear from you.
Want to learn more? Contact Sarah Floyd, sfloyd@naturalareas.org.
While much has been accomplished, there is still so much more to do! To plan for the next 50 years, let’s envision where we want to be in 2074.
Help NAA build a digital time capsule. Record a brief video to share your vision for natural areas conservation in 2074.
Want to learn more? Contact Sarah Floyd, sfloyd@naturalareas.org.
NAA is not the only organization that has been a part of the natural areas movement for 50 years or more. The following organizations are also celebrating 50+ anniversaries this year.
Help NAA share the science needed to protect natural areas, native plants, and pollinators in a rapidly changing climate. Your gift supports programs for people like you who work tirelessly to protect natural areas and the native species who call it home.
NAA has made it even easier than ever to give. One-time, monthly, or bequest giving options are available. Learn more and donate today!
Join the people who protect and manage our natural areas.
