The Million Orchid Project: A non-traditional conservation strategy by Dr. Jason Downing, Director of Research Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Abstract:

The research conducted at Fairchild tropical Botanic Garden and through “The Million Orchid Project” is at the forefront of orchid science, horticulture, and conservation. This massive conservation effort harnesses community participation at all levels of propagating large numbers of orchids for reintroduction efforts in public landscapes. At its core, the project is a massive living science experiment that allows us to make important discoveries about how better to conserve orchids and develop more general strategies for rescuing rare plants within a highly developed urban environment.