Fall 2009 UPDATE Newsletter by Barbara Wilson

Conservancy A publication of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida

UPDATE Fall 2009

Water Quality Win Legal limits set on fertilizer and animal waste pollution. Finally, numeric standards to measure pollution in Florida waters will be established. In late August, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agreed to set legal limits for the widespread nutrient pollution that triggers harmful algae blooms in southwest Florida waters. This action has nationwide implications. Currently, Florida and most other states have only vague limits regulating nutrient pollution. The U.S. EPA will now begin the process of imposing quantifiable – and enforceable -- water quality standards to tackle nutrients.

“WITH A NUMERIC STANDARD IN PLACE, WE CAN help ensure that OUR WATERWAYS SUPPORT HEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS, A HEALTHY ECONOMY AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC.” -Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president and CEO.

“These numeric standards address a need we’ve had for quite a while to protect our local coastal waterways such as the Caloosahatchee River, Naples Bay and the Ten Thousand Islands,” said Andrew McElwaine, president of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “Setting a quan-

titative water quality standard for nitrogen, one of the primary pollutants degrading our coastal waterways, should help limit the development of harmful algal blooms. With a numeric standard in place, we can help ensure that our waterways can support healthy ecosystems, a healthy economy and protect the public.” The change in federal policy comes 13 months after the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and four other environmental groups filed a major lawsuit to compel the federal government to set strict limits on nutrient poisoning in public waters. The EPA originally gave Florida a 2004 deadline to set limits for nutrient pollution, which the state disregarded. The EPA was then supposed to set limits itself, but failed to do so.

www.conservancy.org

Traveling Turtles

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida Sea Turtle Monitoring and Protection team has been involved with sea turtles for over 28 years. To date, the team has been responsible for protecting over 225,000 sea turtle hatchlings on Keewaydin Island. Thanks to new technology, and the generous support of donors, four of this year’s nesting loggerheads have some new “jewelry” --- a satellite tracking device! “Rather than a bracelet or a necklace for me, we have a necklace for the turtle,” donor Donna Hall said. She asked her husband, John, a Conservancy Board member, for a “necklace” for the turtle to celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary. Many thanks to Ruth and Don Campbell, Jennie Cheng, John and Donna Hall, Patsy Schroeder, Christopher B. and Jeannie Smith, David B. and Vicky Smith, Nick Penniman IV, David DuPont, Pamela Williams and Kate Mansfield for their donations to the satellite program. To find out more about the Conservancy sea turtle program, please visit www.conservancy.org.

Loggerhead wearing satellite tracking device.

From the President Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life ... now and forever.

directors Chairman Dolph von Arx Past Chair Nicholas G. Penniman, IV Vice Chairman Andrew D.W. Hill President & CEO Andrew McElwaine Treasurer Gary L. Thomas Secretary Pamela C. Williams BOARD of directors Dawn Allyn Edith G. Andrew Jennifer Cheng Ted Corbin Paul Corddry Sue Dalton John D. Fumagalli John Hall Robert L. Heidrick Rich Housh Colleen Kvetko

Maureen Lerner Lisa Merritt James T. Murphy Jane Pearsall Tony Rodriguez Lynne Shotwell Jeannie M. Smith Kermit Sutton Tuck Tyler Judith C. Tryka Gene Windfeldt

Update is published by the Conservancy Marketing and Communications team. Marketing Director & Editor Barbara J. Wilson Graphic Designer Kate Kintz We welcome comments and suggestions from readers and ideas for future coverage. Please send feedback to info@conservancy.org or mail your input: Conservancy of Southwest Florida 1450 Merrihue Drive, Naples, FL 34102

INFORMATION Conservancy Information

239.262.0304

Native Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

239.262.CARE (2273)

Membership Information

239.403.4207

Volunteer Information

239.403.4212

30 2

Protecting our lands requires diligence, determination…and dollars. When one thinks of preserving land, often it is in terms of outright purchase. And while the Conservancy of Southwest Florida owns a significant number of treasured landscapes, we also hold conservation easements over far more lands. These include properties from the 10,000 Islands to Fort Myers. Many were acquired to settle landmark legal cases such as the Deltona Settlement and the Lely-Barefoot Beach Settlement, both from the 1980s and the Key Marco Agreement with Ronto in the 1990s. An on-line dictionary defines an easement as: “A right, such as a right of way, afforded a person to make limited use of another’s real property.” The conservation easements granted to the Conservancy limit developers and homeowners associations from destroying mangrove forests, nature preserves and other natural treasures. In exchange for these easements, the Conservancy agreed to settle its legal challenges against the developer of that site. But an easement is only as good as its enforcement. When developers or homeowners violate the easement’s terms and restrictions – and harm the environment – the Conservancy’s only recourse is the courts. Worse still, some homeowners’ associations have threatened to sue us in order to undo environmental protections previously granted by their developer! The costs of these suits can be outrageous. In one recent instance, a conservancy in another state racked up $1.5 million in legal fees defending its easements. According to the Land Trust Alliance, the average cost of defending an easement is $70,000 to $100,000 nationwide, per easement. In more recent times, it is common for a conservancy to demand funds for future defense of an easement before taking one on. But thirty years ago, legal costs were less of a concern and such requests were never made. Thus, our operating budget takes the hit when we have to hold developers and others to the agreements they made voluntarily. Your support and contributions go a long way to making sure that lands we thought were preserved actually remain in conservation. If we look the other way, or throw up our hands for lack of funds, priceless natural resources will go under a bulldozer – even though they are supposed to be protected. Only with your help can we be the “cop on the beat” from the 10,000 Islands to Charlotte Harbor. Your generous gift to the year-end appeal will help us protect the paradise we all love. Andrew McElwaine

Saying Goodbye to Good Friends

Supporters Phil Geier and Wes Downing will be missed. We fondly remember Phil Geier who passed away in late February. Phil has provided many years of support for the Conservancy, but more importantly, let us use so much of Sudie Geier’s time for the Conservancy. Sudie, Phil’s spouse, remains a member of the Conservancy Capital Campaign cabinet and a dedicated supporter.

We also remember Wes Downing, founder of Downing Frye Reality, who passed away in July. Wes donated the original “turtle house” on Keewaydin Island to the Conservancy over 20 years ago. To this day, the house has remained the field station for our sea turtle monitoring program for our interns and science teams during turtle season.

Saving southwest florida C apital C ampaign

New $250,000 Gift Brings Wildlife Clinic Closer to Completion Preparations have begun to prepare for a new home and treatment center for the over 2,500 animals treated annually by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic. Thanks to a leadership gift from Sharon and Dolph von Arx, the new von Arx Wildlife Clinic, part of the “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign, construction is underway on new recovery enclosures outside of the existing facility. “These new recovery enclosures will help improve the care for our rehabilitating wildlife,” said Joanna Fitzgerald, Conservancy wildlife clinic director. Fitzgerald continues, “We’re even more excited about the new Clinic. Our current facility was built over 30 years ago and was designed to treat 500-800 animals per year. We’re now treating over 2,500 animals per year.” A generous gift from Fred and Sue Schulte was just received to help complete funding for some behindthe-scenes areas of the Wildlife Clinic. “Now we can focus on completing funding for the outside areas of the von Arx Wildlife Clinic,” according to Rob Moher, vice-president of marketing and development. “These include the Wildlife Pavilion, new display areas for our permanent and rehabilitating native wildlife, new

Many naming opportunities still available.

Conceptual drawing of the renovated Pelican pool and recovery cage areas.

interpretive exhibits about Florida’s wildlife and educational infrastructure for youth and adult wildlife protection programs,” Moher added. Other Campaign priorities for the sustainable campus initiative include funding for the Environmental Planning Center, Eaton Conservation Hall, Dalton Discovery Center and the Ferguson Learning Lab. “We are grateful to the Schulte’s for their recent gift and to all those who have committed funds to the “Saving Southwest Florida” Cam-

paign for the Conservancy,” stated Moher. “We still have many great naming opportunities remaining across the campus and within each of the new buildings. Naming opportunities range from $25,000 to over $850,000 for the new theater in Eaton Conservation Hall.” Please contact Rob Moher at 239.403.4205 or email robm@conservancy.org on how you can get involved in the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign. More campaign info available at www.conservancy.org/campaign

Greening Activities Throughout the next 18 – 24 months, many greening activities continue at the Conservancy Nature Center and campus. • First filter marsh completed. • New decking and “commons” area in progress. • Wildlife trails and viewing area closed until further notice. • Exotic removal and native vegetation planting underway. Conservancy volunteer removes exotic plants.

Become part of the excitement! Call Rob Moher to get involved. 239.403.4205 3

2010 magic Under the Mangroves

Be Part Of The Magic! 2010 Eagle Save the date! March 4, 2010. February 21 Patron Party.

Lot’s of exciting news surrounds the “Eagle” award-winner, the highest the 2010 Magic Under the Mangroves honor the Conservancy bestows upon gala fundraiser! an individual engaged in protecting First, Northern Trust, Gulf Bay, Peli- our paradise. Joy Wallace will provide can Bay, Gulfshore Life, the award-winning dinFlorida Weekly and Betty ner, honored with national MacLean Travel have acclaim as “Caterer of the signed on as major event Year” by Catering Magasponsors. “Their generzine and Event Solutions ous support will help to Magazine. make this event successEvent Chair Nancy ful,” according to Andrew White will continue the McElwaine, Conservancy “green” tradition of the Nancy White, 2010 Event president and CEO. event’s prior Chairs, Chair In addition to Magic’s Board Members Sue Dalreputation as one of the top area ton and Maureen Lerner. Eco-chic fundraisers, it has now been honored materials, low energy lighting, rewith “top green and breathtaking newable resources and earth-friendly event” recognition by the Gulfshore practices will be used throughout the Life Charity Register for fundraisers event. The Magic committee is busy in the region. acquiring some spectacular, one-of a kind adventures, tickets and experiNEW Location for 2010: ences for the silent and live auctions. Tickets to the event begin at $550 Gulf Bay’s Cap d’Antibes and Patron Packages start at $3,500. mangrove-fringed property in Patrons receive invitations to the Pelican Bay. exclusive February 21, 2010 event at There’s even a new location for the the private club on Keewaydin Island 2010 event! Due to the “greening” ac- sponsored by BNY Mellon and Contitivities at the Conservancy of Southnental Construction. west Florida, the event will take place Please make your reservation today. at a beautiful, NEW location for 2010: Call the Magic hotline at 239.403.4219 Gulf Bay’s Cap d’Antibes mangroveor email magic@conservancy.org. fringed property in Pelican Bay. More details available at Ellin Goetz will be recognized as www.conservancy.org/magic Presented by

Betty MACLean Travel, Inc.

Award Winner Ellin Goetz Environmental champion from an early age. The desire to protect and preserve the environment bloomed early in Ellin Goetz. As a child growing up on Staten Island, NY, her parents were involved in a movement to protect the island’s Greenbelt from development and road construction. The group stopped the development and ensured the Greenbelt’s 2,800-acres were designated as a city park. “It’s all about the balance of human activity with nature,” Goetz said. Goetz has championed many vital community and environmental causes. “While Ellin has been involved with the Conservancy for a number of years, we value her commitment to our community and its precious natural resources even more,” said Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president. “Ellin’s work has directly benefitted our environment and quality of life, making her very deserving of this Eagle Award.” Goetz, a member of the Conservancy Chairman’s Advisory Council and past chairperson of its Ellin Goetz, 2010 Eagle board of direcAward Winner tors, is involved with many other community groups. “What makes Naples special is the community involvement in projects that have succeeded.” said Goetz

Conservancy happenings

Tidbits Celebrating people, places, events of note. Saving $$$$ New Babies This new format of UPDATE with the Activities book insert is a test! This method uses less paper while we still utilize soy inks and FSC papers. We are using less natural resources and saving money so we can concentrate our funds on delivering quality programming and protection for our water, land and wildlife. Let us know what you think: barbaraw@ conservancy.org.

A Tropical Thank You The Conservancy would like to thank Andrew Jensen, area director for Tropical Smoothie, for donating several meals to the Conservancy team. The yummy lunches and breakfasts were a great incentive for our staff! Tropical Smoothie Café is located at 5016 Airport-Pulling Rd. N., Naples. 239.262.3600.

Pardon Our Delay If you notice that your thank you letters are taking a little longer than normal to arrive, please excuse us. We are minimizing administrative expenses so we can expand our efforts on conservation programs. Because of this, you may experience a slight delay in our letters acknowledging your kind gifts. For any questions regarding your membership or support, please contact Jean Roche, Conservancy membership coordinator at 239.403.4207.

The Conservancy team welcomes two new additions to the family! Mathilda Mae Sweeney was born on May 21 to Conservancy senior gift processor, Michele Martz and her husband Shannon Sweeney. Chase Evans Galligan was born on September 23 to Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist Rebecca Galligan and her husband Brian.

Wildlife Training Part of Conservancy of Southwest Florida Sustainability Project

Troy Frensley, Conservancy of Southwest Florida education and Discovery Center manager (on the right,) reviews the differences between venomous and non-venomous snakes with a few of the contractors involved in the Conservancy sustainability project. Featured left to right: David Orr, Heatherwood Construction; Ben Elwell, Haskins Under Ground; and other Heatherwood Construction employees: John S. Augeri Sr., Brendon West and Randy Charron. The wildlife training was designed to teach contractors how to effectively identify and deal with the types of wildlife they may encounter during the Conservancy renovations. Frensley is holding an indigo snake, which is non-venomous.

Wildlife Tales Joanna Fitzgerald, director of the Conservancy Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic, is a weekly story writer for the “At the Conservancy Wildlife Clinic” article in the Naples Daily News and on www.naplesnews.com. Joanna’s articles have received many accolades from the public. Be sure to catch up on the latest heartwarming and heart wrenching stories from the Wildlife Clinic.

Thanks, Sponsors! The Conservancy is grateful to the many new and old friends in the community that have agreed to partner with us on 2009 and 2010 events and fundraisers. Major partners include Amerivest, Gulf Bay, Northern Trust, the Pelican Bay Foundation, Betty Maclean Travel, BNY Mellon, Fifth/Third Bank, Florida Weekly, Comcast, M&I Bank, Gulfshore Life, Naples Daily News, Naples Originals Restaurant Group and NBC-2.

Betty MACLean Travel, Inc.

Conservancy of Southwest Florida

EYE ISSUES on the

WILDLIFE Take a Stand for Clean, PROTECTION Healthy Waters THREATENED Florida is home to 117 species that are endangered, threatened or of special concern. Once species are on the state list, they are protected from intentional or incidental killing. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) is considering changes to the regulations that protect these imperiled species. The proposed changes would: • Limit Florida from providing more stringent protections of species regulated by the U.S. Government. • Federally-regulated species could be taken off the imperiled list without a state review to determine the species’ status within Florida. • Thresholds to determine listing of a species would increase, making it difficult for future endangered species to receive protection. • Imperiled species that enjoy protection under the current thresholds would be re-evaluated and dropped from the protected list if they do not meet the revised criteria. The burrowing owl, least tern, and several types of wading birds are some of the species that may lose their protection. According to Amber Crooks, Conservancy natural resources specialist, “When species become extremely imperiled, chance of recovery is diminished and management cost becomes increasingly high. The rules that determine adding species to the list need must adequately protect Florida’s unique and diverse wildlife species.”

TAKE ACTION! Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation to voice your concerns regarding their new proposed listing process rule. Visit www.conservancy.org and click on “Take Action.” 6

Southwest Florida’s quality of life depends on the ability to fish and swim in healthy, productive waters. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is proposing substantial changes to Florida’s water quality standards that could have impact on our health, environment and economy. Currently, there are five classifications for water bodies, with set pollutant levels to ensure that they are safe for their use, whether it be for swimming and fishing or for drinking water. For example, Class I, drinking water, has more stringent water quality standards than a Class V industrial waterbody. When water quality samples show that it’s not safe for its designated use, a pollution reduction plan is implemented to bring the waterbody back into compliance. FDEP is proposing an addition of two lower human use classifications: “splashable/fishable” and “unswimmable/fishable.” Both of these new classifications would legally allow unsafe waters for full human contact, but deemed safe for fishing! FDEP claims that these additional classifications are needed for waterbodies like the

concrete-lined, Franklin Ditch in Tallahassee. Since it is seasonal, it should not be treated as a swimmable/fishable standard. However, there is a simple alternative to creating new broad classifications. We are advocating for FDEP to revise the current Class IV agricultural designated use to include “seasonal flowing and/or concrete-lined ditches.” This addresses the Franklin Ditch and similar cases, without allowing any other type of waterbody to be downgraded. “Lowering designated uses on manmade canals upstream will ultimately make it harder for coastal communities to maintain swimmable/fishable standards in their rivers and estuaries,” states Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy of Southwest Florida natural resources policy manager. “When standards are lowered on upstream waterbodies, pollution control measures will be reduced and the taxpayer gets hit with clean-up costs.” ACT NOW! Request that Governor Crist and Secretary Sole of the FDEP reject lower human use classifications. Click on “Take Action” on www.conservancy.org

Conservancy of Southwest Florida

EYE ISSUES on the

Lee Commission to Vote on Groundbreaking Conservation Plan On October 28th and 29th, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners will have the opportunity to approve a plan for the Density Reduction/Groundwater Resource Area (DR/GR.) This vote follows more than two years of meetings, public hearings and the review of dozens of technical documents. The DR/GR plan, if approved, will protect natural resources and allow compatible land uses within appropriate locations. The plan will protect the 82,560 acres of lands within southeast Lee County, using a series of overlays to specify compatible land uses with associated activities, such as land acquisition/restoration, agriculture, mining and mixed-use development. The DR/GR area was initially set aside in 1990 to reduce overall density within Lee County and protect a significant portion of the County’s water storage lands. This water storage area is critical to future water supplies --- Lee County Utilities obtains approximately 70% of its potable water supply from the DR/GR. Unfortunately, incompatible land uses began right after the DR/GR was designated. Large sections were removed and rezoned to allow for more intensive development. Limerock mines were located in close proximity to wellfields and residential neighborhoods. This new DR/GR Plan, once adopted, will resolve these incompatibilities and protect our current and future water supplies. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida was a member of the Lee County DR/GR planning committee.

Get more information or take action, at www.conservancy.org.

Key Elements of the DR/GR Plan Mining Overlay

With the newly proposed plan, mining will continue to be allowed. However, it will be restricted to areas where it is deemed compatible. Even with this restriction, the DR/GR will be able to supply the region with aggregate through 2030.

Priority Restoration Areas

These areas are currently undeveloped lands or farms. While farming will be an appropriate continued use, the lands are also identified as important for acquisition, protection and restoration, as they provide important habitat and hydrologic linkages.

Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Program

The TDR program allows a transfer of density from environmentally-sensitive lands, provides restoration bonuses, and shifts density to proposed Mixed-Use Communities, primarily located along State Road 82. This discourages low-density sprawl, allowing clustered development at an intensity and density that supports commercial, retail, and offices.

Panther Protection Power-up On September 17, three major conservation organizations jointly filed a legal petition with the Obama Administration to protect the Florida panther. The Center for Biological Diversity, a national non-profit that has successfully won critical habitat protection for over dozens of species, was joined in the petition by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility and Council of Civic Associations, Inc. This petition is similar to the one filed by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in January, 2009. “We’re impressed with the strength of these organizations,” said Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president. “They have a long record of success.” The Center has won 93 percent of its cases. “The Florida panther is the most endangered mammal in North America,” said McElwaine “It is the last cougar sub-species left in the eastern United States. Its significance goes far beyond southwest Florida. The Florida panther is a national treasure, not just a Florida one. I hope all Americans get engaged in this effort. Extinction is forever.” 7

Environmental Science

Hurricane Protection Estero Bay The Wagner’s four year labor of love to restore mangroves. On August 13th of 2004, Hurricane Charlie hit southwest Florida as Category 4 hurricane. Charlie hit the west coast of Pine Island with a peak intensity of 150 mph winds and gusts up to 185 mph, passing directly over the northern tip of Captiva Island directly to the northwest of Pine Island Sound. The core of the hurricane impacted the mangrove islands, with the highest storm surge hitting the northern part of Pine Island. Hurricane Charlie completely decimated mangroves that were thriving on small islands within the Sound. Severe damage to the mangrove forests also destroyed many roosting and nesting areas for wading birds. With their home no longer intact, the birds left the area. The efforts to restore Pine Island Sound mangrove islands following the devastating impact of Hurricane Charlie is the result of tireless labor over a span of four years. The many successes to date are largely due to the efforts of Charles and Sandra Wagner of Mangrove Manor. The Wagners reside in a house located in the mangrove forest on Pine Island that overlooks Pine Island Sound and its many mangrove islands. Hurricane Charlie not only destroyed the mangroves in this area, but caused devastating destruction to the Wagner’s property. They credited the mangrove forests that surround their house and the islands in the Sound for preventing total annihilation of their property, as the eye of the storm passed directly over their land. Cherishing the mangroves that protected them, the Wagners created Mangrove Manor to restore the man8

Water Quality

Report completed by Dr. Jeff Schmid. The salinity study in Estero Bay conducted by Dr. Jeff Schmid, Conservancy environmental research manager, sets the stage for future stormwater management practices. Schmid studied oyster reef crab populations and sea grasses in various areas of the Bay. “The difference in the composition of crab species and sea grasses found in various areas gives you a biological indication of fresh water inflow.”

Charles and Sandra Wagner.

grove islands that helped shield them from Charlie’s devastation. The opportunity arose for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida to use the remainder of a USFWS grant to assist in the Wagner’s restoration efforts. Over the last four years, thousands of volunteer hours have been spent re-planting the mangrove islands that once played a pivotal role in protecting the residents of Pine Island. Now, Darling, Rat, Cat and the Wood Keys have reached a state of self-sufficiency, barring the occurrence of future devastation. Kathy Worley, Conservancy of Southwest Florida co-director of environmental science summarizes it best. “The restoration has given nature the assistance necessary to initiate re-colonization that we hope will result in a full, mature mangrove forest within 15 to 30 years. This does not mean that the restoration of Pine Island Sound is complete. Efforts to re-establish the mangrove forests on the islands of Pine Island Sound will continue.”

“Water quality is a key concern for all southwest Floridians and this study is one of many that will help us ensure we manage our waters correctly for future generations.” - Dr. Jeff Schmid, Conservancy environmental research manager.

Schmid summarizes, “Information from this study will help regulatory agencies establish proper water management practices to control alterations in fresh water flows into Estero Bay. Water quality is a key concern for all southwest Floridians. This study is one of many that will help us ensure we manage our waters correctly for future generations.” The study was funded in part by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Gulf of Mexico program.

Dr. Jeff Schmid collecting samples of turtle grass in Estero Bay.

Environmental educ ation

New Season! New Programs!

Adult eco-learning programs debut.

he Conservancy of Southwest Florida brings Mother Nature to you! Whether it’s the next “lunch and learn,” employee get-together, homeowners’ association meeting, civic club gathering or any other adult social encounter, our assortment of adult outreach programs educate and entertain about the natural treasures in our own backyard in southwest Florida. “We’ve been getting many requests to provide programs for adults that feature live animals and expert presenters,” said Troy Frensley, Discovery Center and education manager. “That’s why we can bring nature learning direct to your doorstep.” Eight different adult programs are part of the travelling

toolbox of adult environmental programs, featuring alligators, raptors, reptiles, sea turtles, Florida panthers, mammals and wildlife rehabilitation stories. Each program is delivered by a Conservancy environmental authority: naturalist, biologist or wildlife rehabilitation expert. “We’ve added a special introductory offer,” according to Frensley. “People that schedule one of our adult programs for $199 have a choice of adding on a “Water” or “Conservancy Story” program for free.” Details are available on pages 30-31 in the new “Activities” book or online at conservancy.org. To schedule your programs, contact Cheryl Latif at 239.262.0304, extension 266.

New Filter Marsh

Cleaner waters and enlightened kids. Happy Birthday Sea Turtle The female juvenile sea turtle that arrived at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida on Earth Day 2009, celebrated her first birthday on Aug. 10. “Right now she weighs about one pound and is doing very well here,” said Troy Frensley, Conservancy Discovery Center and education manager. “Her stay has a two-fold purpose. First, she will grow to 18 inches within the next two-three years to improve her chances of surviving in the wild. She will also serve as an ambassador for its species, reminding everyone about the importance of protecting this rare turtle.” This sea turtle will most likely receive a new satellite tag so she can be tracked after being released.

he Conservancy environmental education department will be piloting a “Watery Wonders” environmental education program at the filter marsh beginning this fall as part of a third grade partnership program with Collier County Public Schools. Conservancy Discovery Center and Education Manager Troy Frensley explains, “The filter marsh gives us

and finally understanding our aquifers and drinking water. “As the marsh continues to mature and plants fill in around it, the filter marsh and the “Watery Wonders” program will just get better,” Frensley summarized. Funding for the filter marsh was provided by the City of Naples, Collier County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

“The filter marsh gives us a wonderful opportunity to utilize a “living laboratory” right on campus. -Troy Frensley, Discovery Center and Education Manager.

a wonderful opportunity to utilize a “living laboratory” right on campus. This program combines the needs of with the ecological functions of the marsh to decrease pollutants entering into our coastal waters.” The program will include animal and plant investigations, water quality testing, understanding water pollution

Students from Laurel Oak Elementary School enjoying a Watery Wonders class last year.

Wildlife rehabilitation CLINIC

Fall Wildlife Watch Rare Visitor

Baby grey squirrels are the most common fall admissions due to injuries from cat attacks and nests being destroyed during landscaping activities. This fall, two young fox squirrels were admitted. Neither was injured, but both were too young to survive on their own. It is unknown what separated them from their mothers. Fox squirrel populations in Florida have declined over the last several decades primarily due to habitat loss. They are a threatened species, so just one returned to the wild is important for the species to survive. Given the chance, wildlife often overcome tremendous obstacles to care for their young.

Protection Tips

Avoid disrupting an active squirrel nest. Check all trees before trimming.

If a nest is found, trim the tree AFTER the babies leave the nest. (Grey squirrel nests can be occupied for up to three months.)

Typically, a mother squirrel will have a second, alternate nest site available. If a squirrel nest is disturbed due to landscaping activity and the babies are uninjured, please allow the mother time to retrieve her young and transfer them to the alternate nest.

Fox Squirrels

Spread the Word

Conservancy WRC operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. We do not take off weekends and holidays. As with all living creatures, the wildlife patients need to be fed and cared for every day. To learn more or to make a donation to this worthwhile cause, please visit www.conservancy.org 10

Baby bobcat only third in eight years to be admitted.

Please call the WRC for guidance before attempting to rescue any suspected orphaned wildlife. Often times, the parent is nearby, and no human interference is required.

Wildlife

The Conservancy Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic (WRC) is always busy in the summer with hundreds of nestling and fledgling songbird admissions. This summer was no exception --- 774 animals were admitted for treatment May through August. Fall typically brings in young mammals. Squirrels, raccoons, eastern cottontails and opossums breed throughout the year, but our busiest time for baby mammals is August through April.

September brought a rare admission to the Wildlife Clinic --- a four-six week old baby bobcat. Only the third baby bobcat to be admitted to the WRC in the past eight years, it was healthy and weighed less then two pounds. Found along a road near Velda, rescuers transported the baby to Immokalee. It’s impossible to know why the baby was separated from the mother. If rescuers contacted the Clinic as soon as the baby was found, we would have asked them to place the baby near the road, out of harms way, to give the mother time to come retrieve her baby. If the mother did not come back after an extended period of time, only then would the baby need to be taken to a wildlife rehabilitation facility. It was crucial for the bobcat to be raised with another baby, so it was transferred to a wildlife center in Northern Florida where a bobcat of similar size is being raised.The bobcat should be released between six and eight months of age. Please call the WRC for guidance before attempting to rescue any suspected orphaned wildlife. Often times, the parent is nearby, and no human interference is required. 239.262.CARE

Conservancy of Southwest Florida

VOLUNTEERnews LOOKING AHEAD

Dear Volunteers, As we look forward to a new season at the Conservancy, we are also looking toward the future. Familiar landscapes and facilities are taking on a new look to surprise and delight. These changes reflect the first efforts of our ongoing “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign. At our December 9th “Welcome Back to the Future” and holiday gathering, you will be treated to a “sneak preview” of all the exciting changes that the campus will be undergoing in the near future. So, please mark your calendars. This event is not to be missed! As greening and sustainability projects continue, the campus will continue to change and so will our need for volunteers. We encourage you to continue sharing your time and talent with us and spread the word about volunteering to your family and friends. Volunteer applications are available at the Conservancy Nature Store on campus, at our Upscale Resale and More shop located at US 41 & 7th Avenue North, and on our website, www.conservancy.org. We look forward to another great season with your help and support. Thank you for all you do for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida!

Intern & Volunteer Services Manager

Please plan to join us … Wednesday, November 4th Wednesday, December 2nd Wednesday, January 6th Connection President

Best, JoAnn & Judy

Best Foot Forward

Send consistent message to the public. Two years ago, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida adopted new uniforms for both volunteers and staff. The official uniform shirts are dark green shirts (good all year) or ivory shirt for the hot summer months (optional.) The grace period for volunteers ended April 30th. If you have not already done so, please purchase your new uniform shirts from the Conservancy Nature Store (after November 1st.) Wear your uniform proudly! It’s perfectly fine to wear it into a store on your way to or from your volun-

For the 2010 season, the Volunteer FORUM will be held the first Wednesday of the month (unless otherwise announced). It will be a morning of educational opportunities starting at 9:00AM with presentations by our Education, Policy and Science departments, some business and the Volunteer of the Month presentation.

teer assignment. You never know who you’ll see, and wearing your shirt will spark conversation and afford you the opportunity to talk not only about the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, but volunteering as well. The message is simple: the Conservancy of Southwest Florida focuses on protecting our region’s water, land and wildlife! We accomplish this through the efforts of environmental education, science and research, policy and advocacy, and wildlife rehabilitation!

Be sure to check out all the volunteer information, field trips and events in the new 2010 Activities book.

Memberships and Annual Gifts Needed Many of you have been donating to specific projects such as the Capital Campaign, Sea Turtle Program, etc. and we thank you for your support. But, please remember that maintaining your Conservancy membership, as part of your volunteer commitment, is just as important – it sustains our day-to-day operation. And, please be as generous as you can with your year-end gift!

! s t n u o C t r o p up S r u o Y Please give generously to the annual appeal.

Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life ... now and forever.

1450 Merrihue Drive Naples, Florida 34102 www.conservancy.org

Donate online today! www.conservancy.org

Anglers Reel in over $70,000

2009 RedSnook tournament “swimmingly” successful. Roland Martin donated his time for the third year in a row to be the spokesperson and co-chair for the very successful 2009 RedSnook Catch and Release Charity Tournament. 2009 primary sponsors of the tournament included M&I Bank, Comcast, Florida Weekly, Heatherwood Construction, and The Johnson Meland Group of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Funds raised will go toward studying juvenile gamefish in the 10,000 Islands. Tourney Chair, Thomas M. Wagor, offered his sincere thanks to all who helped make the program a success. “Sport fishing is part of our heritage, a large part of our economy and our quality of life in southwest Florida. The business community, the RedSnook Committee, Conservancy volunteers, auction donors and local anglers all stepped up to assist in raising funds for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.” Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president, added, “This juvenile gamefish study will help ensure our community continues to enjoy sport fishing for recreation and economic benefit into the future. We appreciate all the efforts that helped make this event a success.” The festivities started on October 2 with a KickOff Party and Auction with Roland Martin at the LaPlaya Beach Club Resort, followed by two days of competitive fishing and an awards reception on October 4 at Northern Trust, with food donated by Jinx and Lloyd Liggett. 12

Bait/unguided winners Derek Spin/unguided winners Pruitt and Jeff Ball. Stephanie and Gary Parsons.

Bait/guided winners Jim Maguire, guide Todd Geroy and Doug Poe.

Spin/guided winners Michael Fly winners Nanette and Rick Top female angler: Susan Gallops, Robert Collins with O’Hara with guide Kevin Tigwell with guide Dave guide Matt McLean. Mihailoff. Prickett.

Largest Redfish winner Kevin Largest Snook winner Bill Grand Slam team winners Bill Johnson with event chair, Sullivan with Conservancy Sullivan and Ty Loyd. Thomas Wagor. President Andrew McElwaine.