Joel Connelly of SeattlePI.Com has a great story today on our exciting announcement that we have earned the support of Audubon and the NRDC:

“Two major national environmental groups have thrown their weight behind Washington’s Initiative 1401, which would impose penalties for selling or bartering endangered animals, particularly African wildlife decimated by poachers and sought by wealthy trophy hunters.

“Our endorsement of I-1401 is a no-brainer because this is an incredible opportunity for Washington voters to make a real difference in the global fight to preserve our natural resources,” said Ely Pepper of the Natural Resources Defense Council. The National Audubon Society also announced that it is backing I-1401.

The initiative’s momentum comes as the plight of the great cats of Africa, and its elephants and disappearing rhinoceroses, is getting increasing national and international attention.”

…

“The initiative will make Washington “a global leader in the fight to save animals currently facing extinction,” said Gail Gatton, executive director of Audubon.”

…

“I-1401 had previously garnered local endorsements from such organizations as the Seattle Aquarium, the Woodland Park Zoo, and the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. It is now going national.”

Check out the full story here, where Joel does a nice round up of the national effort to fight global poaching.