National Audubon

National Audubon

The National Audubon Society (NAS) was founded in 1905, then, as now, for the conservation of birds and their habitats. At the first, it was an amalgam of various state and local preexisting Audubon groups concerned with the wanton killing of birds for their feathers to be used in the millinery trade. These groups had taken the name Audubon in recognition the importance of Audubon’s Birds of America in bringing the beauty and diversity of the nation’s birds to public attention in the 19th Century.

Over the last century, NAS has grown into an influential non-profit organization with more than a half million members. NAS operates through its state offices (e.g. Audubon California), sanctuaries (e.g. Starr Ranch, in Orange County), and offices in New York and Washington, D.C. Among its most important conservation programs are its designation of IBAs (Important Bird Areas) needing special protections, scientific research into bird diversity and long-term conservation planning, including the CBC (Christmas Bird Count). Member benefits include the award-winning Audubon Magazine.

Associated with NAS, and providing it with substantial political power, is its network of 500 independent Audubon chapters. Each chapter represents the NAS members within its chosen region, but is an independent non-profit organization with its own programs and activities. Thus, your Palos Verdes/South Bay Audubon Society has a membership made of of NAS members in the South Bay west of the Los Angeles River, and bordered to the north by Hermosa and Redondo Beach, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson and Compton. Members receive Hummin’, the chapter’s newsletter, in addition to Audubon Magazine.

You can browse their website here.

Membership

Featured National

Any National Audubon Society initiatives or resources we’re currently highlighting will be posted below:

• Click here to access National Audubon’s Birds and Transmission report – detailing requirements of an environmentally sustainable grid.

• Click here to explore National Audubon’s “Audubon Adventures” – a nature magazine made for youth.