The Eastern Cougar Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, science-based, volunteer-run organization dedicated to recovery of cougars (mountain lions) as the top predators in eastern North America



Mission statement:



To facilitate the recovery of cougars in as much of the East as possible.



Goals:



- Conduct investigations to document cougar presence in eastern North America. The possible existence of reproducing populations is of special interest, because the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (the agency responsible for implementing the Endangered Species Act) has to date refused to take action on eastern cougars without proof of reproducing populations. Through donations and grant funds, the ECF conducts a remote camera survey of systematic, non-intrusive field searches in areas of highly credible cougar reports. Another aspect of this program is the documentation of confirmed field evidence of cougars across the East. Only written verification from reputable authorities is accepted as confirmation. Development of regional networks of credible trackers to help investigate cougar reports is also underway.



- Promote full legal protection of all cougars living wild in the East, regardless of origin. The ECF works with local, state and federal agencies to confirm the protected status of all wild cougars, regardless of their origins, under the Endangered Species Act.



- Build tolerance through education. The ECF is working toward producing curricular materials for schools, offers a free brochure on "Living With Cougars," and gives presentations to schools and groups.