Support Save the Species THIS GIVING SEASON and help save Basselinia vestita
THE ASK
The International Palm Society, in partnership with the Institut Agronomique néo-Calédonien (IAC), is proud to launch the 2024 Save the Species Campaign to protect Basselinia vestita, a rare and under-researched palm species native to New Caledonia.
This unique palm is found within a highly respected and strictly prohibited zone on customary land governed by the “Table Unio” tribe of the Bourail commune. The area is zealously protected by the tribe’s clans, who serve as stewards of this sacred site.
The project’s primary objective is to enhance our understanding of the distribution of this rare palm in the region and to develop conservation strategies that actively involve the local communities in decision-making processes.
Between now and December 31, 2024, donate to Save the Species and help us in our efforts!
HISTORY OF BASSELINIA vESTITA
Basselinia vestita is a rare palm that we still know very little about. Some surveys and collections were done in the 1980s, but they didn’t give us a complete picture of where the palm grows. To make things more complicated, the spread of the palm into private collections hasn’t been well tracked either. That’s why it’s so important to continue studying the palm both in its natural habitat (in situ) and in other protected environments (ex-situ).
Through our Save the Species campaign, we’re focusing on protecting the palm’s habitat and taking steps to ensure its survival for future generations.
To make an offline donation toward this cause, follow these steps:
- Write a check payable to the “International Palm Society.”
- On the memo line of the check, indicate it’s a “donation.”
- Mail your check to:
The International Palm Society
1401 Lavaca Street. #751
Austin, Texas 78701
Your tax-deductible donation is greatly appreciated!
Where the money goes
A large part of this project is the collaboration with the Unia tribe, who are deeply committed to protecting the environment and eager to share their traditions. Through visitor days, the tribe welcomes people to experience their culture and explore the unique plants and wildlife of the region.
This project is about more than just conservation—it’s about empowering the Unia tribe to take the lead in protecting both their traditions and the natural environment. It’s a great example of how communities can blend traditional knowledge with modern conservation efforts to preserve something truly special.
Together, we aim to preserve Basselinia vestita and celebrate the cultural and environmental legacy it represents.
Please note: The video is in French, but you may turn on closed captioning and use YouTube’s automatic translation feature to view it with English subtitles.
By supporting our Save the Species Campaign, you will help the conservation team:
Comprehensive Inventory and Mapping:
Develop an extensive inventory of Basselinia vestita in its natural habitat and track its presence in private collections globally. This will provide a clearer understanding of the species’ distribution and status.
Best Practices and Guidelines for Conservation:
Formulate and implement guidelines focused on the ethical management and conservation of Basselinia vestita. This will involve collaborating with both local communities and international partners to ensure sustainable and respectful treatment of the species.
Establishment of a Tribal Nursery:
Set up a nursery within the tribal area dedicated to cultivating Basselinia vestita. This initiative will not only aid in conservation efforts but also serve as an educational resource for the public, enhancing awareness of the species and its significance.
Community Engagement and Education:
Conduct outreach programs aimed at educating the public about the importance of Basselinia vestita and its ecosystem. This will help in fostering a broader understanding and appreciation of the species and its cultural significance.
Tribal Oversight and Material Benefits:
Ensure that the tribe has a significant say in and benefits from the distribution of Basselinia vestita. This includes establishing rights for the tribe to oversee the use and spread of the palm, both within and outside their region, and ensuring they receive tangible benefits from any use of the species.
Collaborative Management with Private Collections:
Work in partnership with private collections around the world, particularly in places like Hawaii, to establish a joint ethic and rules relating to the management of Basselinia vestita. This partnership will respect the cultural property rights of the clans and ensure their involvement in decisions related to the palm’s cultivation and distribution.
PREMIUM DONATION LEVELS
We welcome donations at any level! Simply type in your custom donation amount on the donation form.
For the palm super-enthusiasts, we offer 3 premium donation levels that come with special recognition. Make a donation on behalf of yourself or in honor of someone else.
IPS HERO:
$1,000
Donate $1,000 and receive special recognition in our monthly newsletter, and a special thank you on social media!
IPS SUPERHERO:
$5,000
Donate $5,000 and receive special recognition in our monthly newsletter, the next edition of PALMS, and on social media!
IPS ULTRAHERO:
$10,000+
Donate $10,000+ and receive special recognition in our monthly newsletter, the next edition of PALMS, social media and more!
About the Institut Agronomique néo-Calédonien (IAC)
Institut Agronomique néo-Calédonien (IAC) is a public agricultural research institution, the IAC supports the development of sustainable agriculture in New Caledonia. Together with its partners, it mobilizes science, expertise, innovation, and training to promote agroecological transitions, the preservation of biodiversity, adaptation to global changes, and the sustainable development of rural areas.
The prefiguration mission of the New Caledonia Botanical Conservatory is administratively dependent on the IAC (local research institute), but its management falls under a special committee composed of the French State, the French Office for Biodiversity, the 3 provinces (local authorities competent in environmental matters), the IAC, and the Endémia association.