The International Crane Foundation (ICF) works to conserve all 15 species of cranes and the ecosystems, watersheds, and flyways on which they — and people — depend. Founded in 1973 and headquartered at the Crane Discovery Center in Baraboo, Wisconsin, ICF is a global conservation organization with a presence in Asia, Africa, North America, and its Wisconsin-based global headquarters.
ICF’s work has grown in reach and impact over five decades, while staying focused on its founding mission. Cranes, the foundation notes, are “ambassadors for conservation, representing some of the most important places on Earth.” The organization works across landscapes, communities, and policy frameworks to ensure that the places cranes need can sustain not only cranes but also people and a wealth of biological diversity. ICF’s flagship programs include the Whooping Crane reintroduction effort in eastern North America, the Siberian Crane and other flyway-conservation programs across Asia, community-based wetland conservation in Africa, and a global network of model conservation sites.
The foundation welcomes visitors to its Crane Discovery Center in Baraboo, runs a robust membership and adoption program, and maintains an active public-engagement and education portfolio. ICF’s “Cranes CONNECT US” campaign frames cranes as a unifying symbol for the wetlands, grasslands, and flyways that link ecosystems and communities across the planet.
