As we wrap up 2009 and look toward another exciting year of achievements in 2010, we want to extend our warm and heartfelt gratitude to our many donors that contribute so much to TSA's success.  2009 was a challenging year for fund-raising, and the TSA is privileged to have a loyal and generous group of supporters that believe in our mission and continue to give.  Your support has allowed us to:

- build our India program into a model that continues to launch exciting new species initiatives, and encourages support from the local communities. In 2010, we look forward to expanding our efforts into four new geographic regions that are critically important for turtle diversity;
- make another valiant effort to coax the last captive pair of Rafetus in China to successfully breed;
- be prepared to launch at least four new captive breeding and rescue centers in Myanmar (Burma) that will greatly expand the capacity to save critically endangered endemic species;
- expand our efforts to protect tortoises in Madagascar's southern spiny desert forest.  Radiated tortoises in particular are at risk now from organized groups of hunters and it will take a broad-scale, community-based approach to address this crisis.  TSA is gearing up to help coordinate that effort;
- launch a pilot program for the Central American river turtle (Dermatemys) in Belize that we believe will lead to a sustainable future for this heavily hunted and depleted species.

- hire Heather Lowe as a full-time Program Coordinator to build our membership and streamline administrative operations to allow the organization to continue to grow.

 

The following list reflects the donors that have contributed at the $500 level or above, and in no way disparages our many supporters and members below that level. That list, however, would be too long for this newsletter. Without the generosity of all our donors the TSA would be unable to tackle some of the multitude of serious threats that face turtles and tortoises today. And while the challenges may seem insurmountable at times, we remain committed to zero turtle extinctions. Our promise to you for 2010 - our New Year's resolution if you will - is that will continue to fight the good fight on behalf of the world's most endangered chelonians and we urge you to join us. On the behalf of the Board of Directors and all of us at TSA, we wish you a safe and productive new year.  And thanks again for all you do for turtles and tortoises.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

 

Rick Hudson, TSA President