Because the forensics laboratory is a government-sponsored agency, the lab itself cannot receive contributions directly from an individual or organization without risking conflict of interest. Originally a non-profit organization founded to educate the public concerning wildlife issues, and to create, develop and manage a rehabilitation facility for wildlife affected or contaminated by oil and other hazardous materials, the IWRC has expanded its mission to encompass international fish and wildlife forensics education through the arm of the forensics foundation. Once the foundation is up and running, the IWRC intends to assist with funding the efforts of wildlife law enforcement and customs officials around the world in policing illegal destruction and transportation of endangered wildlife. Illicit trade in wild plants and animals threatens the existence of thousands of species that are often exploited to the point of endangerment or extinction. Wehinger and the board of the IWRC are looking ahead with a 10-year plan that includes future wildlife education through symposia, printed material distribution and participation in international conferences.
Extinction is a natural feature of evolution.
In recent times, however, humans have exponentially been responsible for much of the increased animal and plant loss on the planet. And in turn, those losses have immeasurably affected human population. Be it medicinally, economically or simply aesthetically, the interdependence between all species feeds the quality of life among the creatures, the plants, and us. In other words, the expansion of the human popu- lation. An ever expanding human population living longer and more gainfully requires more food be produced, with more land used to produce it.