Show search WHO WE ARE Our History SHARE View page in: English | Español Grounded in Science and Collaborative from the Beginning The Nature Conservancy began when leading scientists, committed citizens and dedicated leaders came together with a shared vision to protect and care for nature. Today, as we take on the most complex environmental challenges of our lives, our diverse staff, partners and members impact conservation across more than 70 countries and territories. The Nature Conservancy Through the Years 1915-1949 1950-1959 1960-1969 1970-1989 1990-1999 2000-2009 1915-1949 More than a century ago, leaders gathered, debated and laid the groundwork for what would become The Nature Conservancy. 1915 The research-focused Ecological Society of America is formed. From the beginning, members debated over the mission. Should the organization exist only to support ecologists and publish research or should it also pursue an agenda to preserve natural areas? 1917 From the activist wing of the Society, some members form the Committee on Preservation of Natural Areas for Ecological Study, led by Victor Shelford, a scientist who helped establish ecology as a distinct field of study. The future of TNC is in your hands. The challenges facing our natural world have never been greater and the need for bold solutions has never been more urgent. Your support will allow us to put the best conservation science into action right now. JOIN US Site Footer EXPLORE Our Mission Our Accountability Newsroom Magazine Events CONNECT Contact Us Careers FAQ Ethics Helpline GIVE Donate Now Membership Gift & Estate Planning SOCIAL SIGN-UP FOR E-NEWS Join the million supporters who stand with us in taking action for our planet Get text updates from The Nature Conservancy See Mobile Terms & Conditions GLOBAL SITES Australia Brazil Canada China India Indonesia Mexico Hong Kong: English 中文 The Nature Conservancy is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 53-0242652) under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Global sites represent either regional branches of The Nature Conservancy or local affiliates of The Nature Conservancy that are separate entities. © 2021 The Nature Conservancy Terms of Use | Privacy Statement | Charitable Solicitation Disclosures | Mobile Terms & Conditions