The Orange County chapter of the Society for Conservation Biology (OC SCB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the awareness and participation of the community and the UCI campus in ecological and environmental issues in Orange County. SCB is an international professional organization that promotes the scientific study of factors that affect the maintenance, loss, and restoration of biological diversity. The Society focuses on advancing research and knowledge of biological diversity and promotes public awareness of environmental issues through educational programs, advising policy decisions, and promoting sound ecological management practices. The OC SCB is the first chapter representing southern California in the international SCB organization. In Orange County, the loss of local biological diversity is primarily the result of land development and habitat degradation. The OC SCB facilitates involvement by organizing monthly guest lectures, information postings, volunteer opportunities, and restoration projects.