Native Plant Trust, formerly known as New England Wild Flower Society, announces it is one of the first organizations in the world awarded Advanced Conservation Practitioner Accreditation by Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). BGCI’s Advanced Conservation Practitioner Accreditation recognizes botanic institutions with significant conservation impact and with work that supports local, national or global conservation goals.
“Plant conservation is a core part of our mission at Native Plant Trust. We are honored to be among the first organizations recognized by BGCI for high professional standards and for achievements in our plant conservation program,” Executive Director Debbi Edelstein said. “The new Advanced Conservation Practitioner Accreditation provides an important framework for strengthening conservation initiatives and enhancing collaboration on policies throughout the worldwide network.”
BGCI accreditation ensures that gardens adhere to international standards. The Advanced Practitioner Accreditation includes a Conservation Collections Assessment by BGCI, and applications are reviewed through a rigorous external review process that culminates with an endorsement by members of BGCI’s international Advisory Council, a global leadership forum for botanic gardens comprising 30 garden directors from six continents.
