Balanced Ecology

Balanced Ecology, Inc. (BEI) is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization dedicated to the use of science and education to increase public knowledge of wildlife and habitat conservation and promote sustainable coexistence between people and nature. The organization was founded in 2007 to address unique conservation challenges in Texas, its home state, as well as other locations.

Mission

The organization's mission is to promote sustainable coexistence between people and nature through scientific communication and public education.

Balanced Ecology emphasizes a balanced approach to conservation by promoting collaboration between interest groups such as state and federal agencies, academic institutions, conservation organizations, landowners, and other interested individuals, and by taking into consideration habitat, wildlife and human activities.

Balanced Ecology is an all-volunteer organization and all funds are used exclusively for the direct advancement of its mission.

History

Balanced Ecology was founded in 2007 by Dr. Oranit (Orie) Gilad, a Conservation Ecologist. Dr. Gilad has spent over 15 years working on wildlife related projects around the world. Her work in western Texas with Mountain Lions and Desert Bighorn Sheep has put in focus the unique aspects of wildlife conservation in Texas, a state where 97–98% of all land is privately owned. Dr. Gilad believes that only through a collaborative effort between interested parties and by taking into consideration the needs of landowners as well as wildlife, progress can be made.