Naomi Fraga, Director of Conservation at the California Botanic Garden and recently presented with the prestigious E. O Wilson and Peter Raven Awards, will discuss the tools available to scientists to advance the conservation of rare and threatened species. Advocacy, including Endangered Species Act listing petitions, media messaging, and organizing with environmental advocates provides some of the most accessible and high value tools towards addressing critical and immediate conservation needs. Two case studies will be considered: Tecopa bird’s beak, and Tiehm’s buckwheat.