This weekend the Angraecoid Alliance had an exhibit at the American Orchid Society's Trustees' Meeting hosted by the Southwest Regional Orchid Growers Association in Wichita. The exhibit focused on the importance of conservation of angraecoid orchids in Madagscar and cultivation ex situ. The exhibit received an educational award from the AOS. The award description was very flattering:
"Dramatic exhibit telling the story of how in-situ and ex-situ conservation may save angraecoid orchids threatened by habitat destruction in Madagascar. Focused presentation draws observer to a central focal point, a photograph of Angraecum sesquipedale, the quintessential Madagascaran orchid. The eye naturally retreats to a collection of Angraecoid species and hybrids in bloom and two comprehensive reference manuals. This tabletop exhibit is flanked by four two-feet by five feet banners giving an overall description of slash and burn deforestation. The end banner identifies the Angraecoid Alliance as a new organization and source for additional information."
The exhibit also served to open conversation with a number of individuals. Several show attendees gave me the contact information for various individuals who have expertise in Madagascar, flasking etc. There is so much to be done, but I appreciated the encouragement of the individual conversations and the AOS award.
