Vision

The International Crane Foundation (ICF) commits to a future where all 15 species of cranes are secured in the wild – a future where people cooperate to protect and restore wild populations and their ecosystems. These efforts sustain the places where cranes live, to the benefit of countless other species. ICF’s achievements arise from our receptivity to the perspectives and experiences of others and from our ability creatively to link crane conservation with broad ecological and social issues. Our programs demonstrate the solutions that become possible when diverse people work together. To fulfill this challenging vision, ICF provides leadership, scientific expertise, and inspiration for all who care about cranes. We act as a catalyst, nurturing effective programs and lasting relationships that make a difference worldwide.

Goals

1. 1.Conservation excellence: The continued recovery of Critically Endangered Siberian Cranes; Endangered Whooping and Grey Crowned Cranes; Vulnerable Red-crowned, White-naped, Hooded, Sarus, and Wattled Cranes; and Near-Threatened Black-necked Cranes. We provide global leadership through the IUCN Crane Specialist Group and our extensive conservation networks in more than 60 countries.
2. 2.Organizational excellence: Seamlessly integrate world-class conservation science with strong institutional leadership, adaptive management, and global partnerships. With our diverse staff working across continents, we share values of innovation, transparency, inclusivity, collaboration, trust, and optimism; supported by excellence in finance, operations, IT, HR, legal, marketing, and development.
3. 3.More than cranes: The scope of our mission extends far beyond the protection of cranes. We also protect landscapes and support communities where cranes live. These landscapes provide essential ecosystem services—clean water, fisheries, grazing lands, flood control, carbon sequestration, and ecotourism—that benefit local communities and strengthen national economies.