My name is Clare Weaver, and I work as the field botanist and researcher for the Virgin Islands Rare Plant Initiative (VIRPI), a small program of Naples Botanical Garden, Florida. Our mission is to conserve the rare and endangered plants of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican bank. We do this through in-situ work in the wild and ex-situ projects like our living gene bank and seed storage. My personal goal is to help preserve the genetic diversity of each species by collecting seeds, growing cuttings, and restoration work with native species. Many of my days are spent in the field, searching forests, coasts, and ravines—known locally as “guts”—for rare plant populations. The work is hot, steep, and I encounter spiny plants! Every rare plant found is documented with measurements, reproductive status, and geo-location, then tagged for ongoing monitoring. I am also creating detailed maps and starting genetic testing, which will show how populations are related and guide me in restoring or augmenting them with the strongest possible diversity. On St. Croix, VIRPI maintains a 50-acre living gene bank where we grow many of these species. I collect and send seeds there, and sometimes share them with partner gardens. These collections protect species for the future and can one day restore native habitats by improving soils, preventing erosion, supporting wildlife, and keeping invasive plants in check. Another important part of my role is sharing the importance of native species. I give talks, lead school trips and native plant walks, and use photos and social media to help people see the value of our native species. Teaching children especially inspires me—I believe they may be our strongest hope for the future of conservation. This work fulfills me on every level. Being in native habitats feels like meditation and connects me to deep ancestral energy. Plants bring peace, inspiration, and unity across cultures. Through VIRPI, I am grateful to play a part in protecting them for generations to come.