Theresa Stratmann and other University of Georgia Herpetological Society members spent two days disseminating information on the native amphibians and reptiles of Georgia at the 2013 Evans County Rattlesnake and Wildlife Festival. Held near Claxton, GA, this event was a lethal rattlesnake roundup until 2012. Now, GA DNR and other conservation-minded groups provide captive snakes for the weekend event, all of which are returned live to their owners afterwards. Photo by Todd Pierson
All successful conservation programs include a strong educational component. The focus of education may be directed at certain groups (landowners, legislators, recreationists) but the most significant are aimed at a broad segment of society. Nowhere is this more true than in the conservation of amphibians and reptiles, where generations of prejudice, unwarranted fears, and confusing information all become major barriers that must be overcome. Despite impediments, amphibian and reptile conservation is proceeding well in some areas thanks, in part, to successful education.
For example, understanding the importance of American alligators to their entire ecosystem has led to effective conservation programs. Such recognition occurs only with a broad based and accurate flow of information. Educational programs about herps and the ecosystems they depend upon must continue if we are to maintain the diversity of amphibians and reptiles throughout the world.