Visions of the Wild

Amongst scientists, the need for connectivity between natural areas and preserves has become basic knowledge. Isolated pockets of land, established as parks and preserves, are not enough to maintain a sustainable, healthy ecosystem that supports both wildlife and human communities over time. Florian recognized the importance of wildlife corridors when he started his work on his Freedom to Roam project over a decade ago.  

Vital areas have been identified in North America recognizing their unmatched biodiversity and pristine wilderness: The Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) and the Baja to Beaufort (B2B) eco regions.

Like geographic arteries of the wild, Y2Y and B2B connect the last vestiges of the western wilderness in a river of hope to preserve the habitats of many endangered wide-ranging migratory mammals and birds to give them the freedom to roam. Threatened by exploitation of its natural resources and the constant growth of population and development, the importance of reconnecting isolated preserves is crucial to ensure a functioning web of life.

As we face the new era of climate change, plants as well as animals need to allocate to new environments. Here is where corridors play an important roll in the survival of many species. Only by establishing linkages between parks and preserves, we will ensure the endurance of these unique ecosystems.

Schulz`s first Freedom to Roam project on North America`s most critical mountain wildlife corridor: “Yellowstone to Yukon” was realized in close collaboration with Braided River. Using „Yellowstone to Yukon – Freedom to Roam“ (published by Braided River / Mountaineers Books) as the center-piece of a broad outreach campaign for wildlife corridors, Florian`s conservation photography project reached millions of people through the media, museum exhibits and public lectures.

The strong partnership with Braided River continues with the second Freedom to Roam project on the coastal Baja to Beaufort (B2B) corridor project. Stay tuned for the upcoming book, museum exhibits and other publications that promote the creation of wildlife corridors.