INSIDE
RedSnook 4 2012 Anglers Reel in a
Spring 2013
D e d i c at e d
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Under the 5 Magic Mangroves Results!
10 Protecting our Future
Update
Record $125,000
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Conservancy Nature Center Transformation
The $20 million renovations for the sustainably designed Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center are nearing completion! Come celebrate with us at the Grand Reopening Weekend Festival on April 20 and 21, 10 AM – 4 PM, presented by Wells Fargo. Enjoy music, food, environmental exhibits, assorted vendors, treats, children’s activities and special presentations throughout both days. Reduced admission is offered during the festival for the general public – $10 for adults; $5 for children 3-12 and free to under age three. Conservancy members receive free admission and special benefits. See page 3. For the Festival, enter the Nature Center on foot via Smith Preserve Way, the new Conservancy entrance south of Naples Zoo on Goodlette Frank Road. FREE parking is available at Colonial Square on GoodletteFrank Road with complimentary shuttle service to and from the Festival entrance. Experience all the activities and the full 21-acre Conservancy Nature Center amenities: the new Smith Preserve Way entrance, Christopher B. Smith Preserve, Dalton Discovery Center, nursery viewing at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, Eaton Conservation Hall with the Jeannie Meg Smith Theater, Ferguson Learning Lab, electric boat rides and kayak rentals from the Allyn Family Lagoon and the Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh. Plus visit recuperating birds in the Shorebird Pool and walk the trails, Site #69 on the Great Florida Birding Trail! Of course, no visit is complete without Presented by
April 20 & 21, 2013 • 10 AM - 4 PM a visit to the Bradley Nature Store for nature-inspired gifts, books, toys, games, tee-shirts and more. The Eva Sugden Gomez Environmental Planning Center and Sustainability Courtyard are on track to open in late 2014.
Get the latest schedule and information at conservancy.org/ grandreopening.
National Geographic’s Dr. Sylvia Earle Festival Keynote Speaker Dr. Earle is an American oceanographer, aquanaut and author. She has been a National Geographic explorer-in-residence since 1998 and has led more than 60 expeditions worldwide involving more than 7,000 hours underwater. She will be presenting in Eaton Conservation Hall/Jeannie Meg Smith Theater on April 20. 12 PM General Public 2 PM Members Only (followed by member book signing)
Supporting Sponsors
Message from the President Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life ... now and forever.
directors
Chairman Robert L. Heidrick Vice Chairman Lynn Slabaugh President & CEO Andrew McElwaine Treasurer George Gibson Secretary Jane Pearsall BOARD of Dennis C. Brown Joseph R. Catti Paul Corddry John D. Fumagalli Thomas R. Gibson Phil Gresh John Hall Lois Kelley Kenneth Krier Wayne Meland Lisa Merritt
directors Patsy Schroeder Lynne Shotwell Jeannie M. Smith Heide Colgate-Tamblyn Anne Drackett Thomas Jay Tompkins Tucker Tyler Nancy G. White Van Williams Gene Windfeldt Ian Wright
Update is published by the Conservancy Marketing and Communications team.
The Weekend Festival will include food, fun for all ages, environmental partners, crafts, children’s activities, music and more. Dr. Sylvia Earle, from “National Geographic” will be the featured guest speaker on Saturday, April 20. She is a renowned oceanographer, explorer and author with experience as a field research scientist. Conservancy members will also have access to other special programs during the Grand Reopening Weekend Festival. Please visit our website for the latest information and schedule about the Grand Reopening Weekend Festival – conservancy.org/grandreopening. With the continued efforts of our staff, volunteers, sponsors and many friends and supporters, the Conservancy will educate, engage and empower our community to care for the natural world that sustains us – our water, our land, our wildlife and our future. Hope to see you April 20-21, 2013! Best,
Graphic Designer Kate Kintz Photography Ralph Arwood Jim Bigelow Dennis Goodman
Andrew McElwaine
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 von Arx Wildlife Hospital 239.262.CARE (2273) Membership Information 239.403.4207 Volunteer Information 239.403.4212 www.conservancy.org
Wells Fargo is the presenting sponsor for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center Grand Reopening Weekend Festival April 20-21, helping support two full days of educational and fun activities, programs, exhibits and special speakers throughout the newly renovated Conservancy Nature Center. “Wells Fargo is proud to both sponsor the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Grand Reopening Festival and volunteer throughout the weekend,” says Laura Worzella, Wells Fargo area president. “Volunteerism and other forms of community support are key elements of Wells Fargo Vision & Values and we are honored to be a part of these special days.”
Years in the making, with support provided by generous donors to the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign, the new Conservancy Nature Center was designed as an entire environmental education experience – to teach the importance of our fragile environment, how Conservancy work protects it, and inspires you to become involved and take action. This will be the preeminent nature center in the southeastern United States.
Marketing Director & Editor Barbara J. Wilson
We welcome comments and suggestions from readers and ideas for future issues.
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We are thrilled to invite you to our Nature Center Grand Reopening Festival April 20-21, 2013. Come Andrew McElwaine and be among the first to see the over $20 million in new and renovated visitor experiences at the Nature Center. The Grand Reopening Weekend Festival April 20-21, 2013, is sponsored by Wells Fargo with supporting sponsors Bank of America, Waste Management, PNC Bank, Walmart, Florida Weekly, D’Latinos, Azteca America and Clear Channel’s CAT Country and The River.
Presenting Wells Fargo Grand Reopening Festival
A Fond Farewell Two of our very dear friends, Ed Andrew and Bill Dalton, passed recently. Ed and his wife Edie, and Bill and his wife, Susan, have touched our lives in so many ways, through their friendship, and through their ongoing support of the Conservancy mission. They have played a major role in the transformation leading up to our Grand Reopening celebration. “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller
Ed Andrew
Bill Dalton
Benefits abound for Conservancy members.
In addition to all the standard member benefits, extra perks have been added during the Grand Reopening Weekend Festival, including: • Twenty percent off in the Bradley Nature Store. • “Members Only” tent with light snacks and refreshments. • Two free lunch vouchers to the Russel’s Clambakes tent for each member household. • Reserved member seating areas at the main stage events and Eaton Conservation Hall/ Jeannie Meg Smith Theater events. • “Meet the Conservancy Team” interactive sessions with environmental science, policy and wildlife rehab team members in the “Members Only” tent. Not a member yet? Festival guests will be able to join at the festival and enjoy all the member benefits!
April 20 & 21, 2013 •10 AM - 4 PM ALL NEW 21-ACRE NATURE CENTER EXPERIENCE NEW ENTRANCE – SMITH PRESERVE WAY OFF GOODLETTE-FRANK ROAD DALTON DISCOVERY CENTER • VON ARX WILDLIFE HOSPITAL NURSERY VIEWING EATON CONSERVATION HALL/JEANNIE MEG SMITH THEATER ELECTRIC BOAT RIDES/ALLYN FAMILY BOAT DOCK SHOTWELL WAVERING FILTER MARSH • CHRISTOPHER B. SMITH PRESERVE KAYAK RENTALS • & MORE
LOTS OF FAMILY FUN! SPECIAL WEEKEND FESTIVAL EVENTS “NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC” GUEST SPEAKER SYLVIA EARLE - SATURDAY ONLY (oceanographer, explorer, author, and lecturer) LIVE MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT • FOOD • EXHIBITORS • CRAFTS INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS • & MORE
Members FREE! Admission: ADults: $10 • Children (3-12): $5 Special New Member Incentives Available!
Located south of the Naples Zoo! Please walk in through new entrance, Smith Preserve Way. Sorry, no onsite parking available. FREE offsite parking is available at Colonial Square on Goodlette-Frank Road with shuttle service to and from the main festival entrance at Smith Preserve Way, south of the Naples Zoo on Goodlette Frank Road.
schedule of events at conservancy.org/grandreopening • Hotline 239.430.2466 3
E V ENTS
E V ENTS
2012
First place winners in each division: 1. Guided Bait Division: 3955 Points. Mike Ison and Jack Kuhn, guided by Jim Stoner 2. Unguided Bait Division: 4060 Points. Doug Hanks and Troy Pruitt 3. Guided Artificial Bait Division: 3670 Points. Wayne Meland and Jon Kukk guided by Andrew Bostick 4. Unguided Artificial: 3465 Points. Jeff Ball and Derek Pruitt 5. Fly Division: 3400 Points. Travis Fulford and Pat Fulford guided by Ken Chambers
Reversing the tide The Pearson Family Foundation has provided critical support for Conservancy water policy initiatives, including staffing and advocacy efforts. “The water quality issues are so enormous and complex that one individual or organization will have difficulty effectively confronting them alone,” said Hugh Pearson on behalf of the Hugh and Betty Pearson Foundation. “The Conservancy has some of the few environmental policy professionals in the state tackling numerous critical water quality policy changes, proposing solutions and spearheading the way to make a difference. But more help is needed. The Pearson Foundation challenges others to join us in protecting Florida’s water resources.” To support Conservancy of Southwest Florida water policy team, call 239.403.4205. 4
2012 RedSnook Anglers Reel In Record $125,000 Tournament supports clean water and more fish!
Wayne A. Meland
Forty-four teams participated in deeply appreciate the hard work and the 2012 RedSnook Catch & Release leadership provided by the Co-Chairs Charity Tournament Nov. 2-4, 2012, Lloyd Liggett and Rhett Robicheaux, generating a record $125,000 to supthe RedSnook Committee and Dr. port the water quality protection and Aaron Adams from Mote Marine gamefish research conducted by the Laboratory and Aquarium for volunConservancy of Southwest Florida. teering as the honorary chair.” The event was sponsored by Wayne The weekend began with a KickA. Meland, Morgan Stanley. Off Party and Silent and Live Auc“We are more than pleased with tions at Naples Yacht Club. The these record results,” said Consercompetition began on Saturday and vancy President Andrew McElwaine. continued again on Sunday. The “Perhaps even more importantly, we event concluded with an awards cerare overwhelmed with the level of emony on Sunday evening at Northsupport provided by the community ern Trust. --- the anglers, guides, sponsors and donors. The money raised from the event will ultimately help ensure that our waters and estuaries remain viable for sport fishing far into the future.” Rob Moher, Conservancy of Southwest Florida vice-president of development and marketing stated, “We Co-Chair Rhett Robicheaux, Honorary Chair Dr. Aaron Adams and Co-Chair Lloyd Liggett.
Supporting Sponsors
BETTY MACLEAN TRAVEL, Inc. “The Adventure Travel Company”
2013 Magic Under the Mangroves™ Record breaking $937,000 raised. 2013 Magic Under the Mangroves™ was a smashing success for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. On March 7, 2013, 430 guests helped raise over $937,000 in net income to support Conservancy programs, announced Jeannie Smith, the chairwoman for both the 2012 and 2013 events. Northern Trust was the presenting sponsor of the event. “The results from Magic continue to exceed our expectations,” according to Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy of Southwest Florida president. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to a very long list of individuals and organizations contributing to this success: our sponsors, our patrons, auction donors, our past Magic chairs, our volunteers, the Board, the Magic Committee and the leadership of Magic chairwoman, Jeannie Smith.” As a part of the event, Conservancy of Southwest Florida announced the winners of its Eagle Award, the highest honor presented annually to recognize an individual or group whose work and actions protect the natural environment and quality of life in Southwest Florida. The Conservancy 2013 Eagle Award recipients honored at Magic 2013 were: Dr. Erik Madison, Emergency Pet Hospital of Collier County; Dr. Tonya Loreman, Sabal Palm Animal Hospital; Dr. Damien Lin, St. Francis Animal Hospital; Dr. Frank Ogden, Bonita Veterinary Hospital; Dr. Christi Warren, Animal Eye Doctors; and Dr. Jeffrey Noble, St. Francis Animal Hospital.
SAVE THE DATE March 6, 2014
Presenting Sponsor
Andrew McElwaine, Jeannie Smith and John Fumagalli.
Future, current and former chairs of Magic: Maureen LernerJeannie Smith, Lynne Shotwell, Sue Dalton and Nancy White.
Area vets were recognized with 2013 Eagle award for their time and talents assisting wildlife.
2013 Magic Under the Mangroves décor was chosen to integrate with the overall wildlife theme.
PATRON PARTY Momentum for Magic started at the Patron Party on February 10, when 200 patrons dined Cuban-style at the private Keewaydin Club on Keewaydin Island. The 2013 Magic Patron Party was co-sponsored by Sabadell Bank and the Michael Lawler Group/Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.
Supporting Sponsors
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Development
Happenings
done, we have initiated a new fiveyear strategic plan with the board and Conservancy staff to keep us focused and growing into the future.” In addition, members present at the Annual Meeting elected six new community and business leaders to serve a four-year term as members of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Board of Directors. The newly elected board members are Joe Catti, CEO of FineMark National Bank & Trust; Heidi ColgateTamblyn, a senior vice president and senior client advisor with Synovous Bank; Wayne Meland, senior vice president of Morgan Stanley; Van Williams, retired vice president of development emeritus from Princeton University; Tom Gibson, an automotive executive; and Phillp M. Gresh, retired executive vice president of Illinois Tool Works. Guest speakers included environmental videographer Elam Stoltzfus and photographer Carlton Ward, Jr., presenting details of their Florida Wildlife Corridor expedition. Elam is creating the new Conservancy film to debut in Eaton Conservation Hall/ Jeannie Meg Smith Theater at the Conservancy Nature Center during the Grand Reopening Weekend Festival.
Outgoing Conservancy Board Member Dawn Allyn was honored for her years of service by Ken Krier.
Good Fortune II
Unexpected Valentine’s Day Rescue AT&T Regional Director Matt Mucci presents a check for $107,500 to Conservancy of Southwest Florida for STEM Institute.
NEWly elected board members
Heidi Colgate-Tamblyn Joe Catti
Phillip M. Gresh
(L) Matt Pietzak, Don Drury, Sharon Treiser, Andrew, Bob Heidrick, Robert T. Saltarelli. (R) Carlton Ward, Jr. and Elam Stoltzfus presenting details of their Wildlife Corridor Expedition. Photos courtesy of Mark Block.
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About the Good Fortune II
The crew and passengers of the Good Fortune II were surprised by an unexpected “passenger” that came aboard during the Valentine’s Day morning cruise. Midway through the cruise, the passengers and Conservancy volunteer Naturalist Judy Hushon spotted a juvenile brown pelican dangling upside down by fishing line from a rookery tree. Using some longnosed pliers from the boat’s toolbox, they cut the line and also removed 50 yards of filament from the tree. The pelican dropped into the water and appeared fine. Upon closer inspection, the group noted that its wing appeared injured, so they decided to safely capture it
and get it to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida . One of the passengers, Art Corrales, volunteered to capture the pelican – he waded in two feet of water, got a towel over the pelican and carried it back to the boat. The pelican arrived safely on shore and was picked up by “Critter Courier” volunteer Stan Huber. Its exam at the Wildlife Hospital indicated that its wing and foot suffered some trauma from the fishing line. Luckily, it will heal over time after some rest and recuperation. Fortunately for the pelican, the Good Fortune II came along at the right time.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida offers nature cruises through the Rookery Bay waterways on its Good Fortune II pontoon boat. Coast Guard certified captains and expert naturalists take you off the beaten path through one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. Diverse wildlife, including hundreds of bird species and many threatened and endangered animals thrive in this unique environment. Good Fortune II cruises run through April and extraordinary private charters are also available.
Now Sailing
Conservancy of Southwest Florida hosted the organization’s 48th Annual Meeting on Jan. 16 at the Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts. With more than 4,000 members, the Conservancy relies on its members to help support the day-to-day operations. The meeting was sponsored by PNC. Following the Board of Directors’ annual report to members on key initiatives completed over the past year, Conservancy of Southwest Florida President and CEO Andrew McElwaine and Conservancy Board Chair Robert Heidrick honored outgoing board members Dawn Allyn, Ted Corbin, Sue Dalton and Andrew D.W. Hill and recognized their commitments to helping the Conservancy of Southwest Florida reach its milestone $38 million “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign goal and continually advocating to help meet the critical needs of Southwest Florida’s environment. “Not only do we recognize our outgoing board members for their role in helping us reach our goal of creating a premier Nature Center, growing our endowment and strengthening our public policy work, but we thank them for helping us plan ahead,” said Heidrick. “Recognizing that our work is never
Mark Block
Annual Members Meeting
Tom Gibson
For cruise reservations, call 239.403.4236 or visit www.conservancy.org/ goodfortune. Van Williams
Wayne Meland
Rescuer Art Corrales
Naturalist Judy Hushon.
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E n v i r o n m e n ta l e d u c at i o n
Happenings
Tidbits
s!
Celebrating people, places, events of note.
EW
r
Th
Fond Memories
Kudos
New Role
Conservancy member Kristine Meek is also a member of the Membership and Marketing Committee and supplied us with this photo taken of her in the old Discovery Center, circa 1980s. Note the rudimentary interpretive “signage” in the background – now replaced by professionally designed panels in the Dalton Discovery Center.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida received three gold ADDY awards for promotional materials developed to support “Magic Under the Mangroves:” ‘Save the Date’ mailer; main event invitation and overall Magic campaign. The Campaign also received the prestigious “Judges Choice” award. The concept and materials were developed by Conservancy Graphic Designer Kate Kintz, photographer Dennis Goodman, and Conservancy Director of Marketing and Communications Barbara Wilson. The ADDY Awards are the world’s largest and arguably toughest advertising competition sponsored by the American Advertising Federation.
After seven years of volunteer service and four years as the Dalton Discovery Center volunteer coordinator, Carole Talkowski will be taking on a new volunteer role at the Conservancy. Her years of service were celebrated at the Dalton Discovery Center Volunteer Welcome Back Potluck.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida Furniture and More Upscale Resale store received a donation of the entire contents from a home in Port Royal. The Resale Store has been busy preparing the items for resale and now has an even larger inventory to sell. Stop by and find a new treasure for your home. Are you redecorating or relocating? Consider donating your gently used or new items to the Upscale Resale store and receive a tax deduction at the same time. 263.0717.
Upscale Resale Furniture & More 8
Summer Camp Influence
Supported by
CONSERVANCY SUMMER CAMP
A lifelong interest in science.
2013
AquaCAMp • LAND LUBBERS • WILD DISCOVERIES
r fo
year hool 13 sc 0 2 the 8 of K f s o ate u ad gr
AquaCAMp Discover some of the oceans extraordinary species, and get up close with aquatic animals. Packed with hands-on exploration of the region’s aquatic systems – from freshwater swamps to the Gulf of Mexico. LAND LUBBERS Venture out and explore the amazing ecosystems of Southwest Florida! Florida’s environment provides a multitude of areas for eco-exploration – from sandy scrub to the muddy marshes. Interact with a different ecosystem each day through a wide variety of activities
Carol Talkowski, Lily Mleczko
“Wild Kratts” Come to Town HUGE Furniture Donation
N ee
C
p am
Brothers Chris and Martin Kratt are the stars of this PBS children’s TV series and they came to the Conservancy Nature Center to interact with Conservancy staff and feature osprey, opossums, dragonflies and even mosquitos! Then it was off to the Good Fortune II for a sunset birding cruise! These Conservancy segments will air at a future date.
Three Collier County students attribute their common interest in science to their experiences at Conservancy Summer Camp. David Mair, Gates Mariotti and Christian Wright were among a select few who competed in the Collier County Regional Science Fair in January at North Collier Regional Park. All their projects were inspired by their Conservancy Camp experience - David’s orchid project, Gates’ love of the scientific experimentation process and Christian’s interest in eco-friendly practices.
WILD DISCOVERIES Snakes, panthers, and bears… oh my!. Explore the incredible creatures that play important roles in Florida’s unique ecosystems. Discover how these animals have adapted to live in different habitats - from the parched, dry upland scrub to the soupy swamps.
Aqua
LAnd
DATES June 10-14 June 17-21
Wild
NO CAMP
Aqua
June 24-28
July 1-5
July 8-12
Land
Wild
July 15-19 July 22-26
Sea Horses Kindergarten Graduates Barracudas 1st-2nd Graduates
SNAKED! Well, the python was inserted via Photoshop, but these volunteers had a great time participating in the Python Hunt – Jo Dingler, Sheri Arnold, Carole Talkowski, Joan Murray, Sue Smith, Susan Snyder.
Sharks 3rd-4th Graduates Extreme 5th-8th Graduates
Registration information: www.conservancy.org/camp or CherylL@conservancy.org
Become a Conservancy of Southwest Florida MEMBER and SAVE !
Christian Wright at Collier County Science Fair.
Discover why Conservancy Summer Camp has been a consistent Naples Daily News “People’s Choice” Award winner for multiple years. www.conservancy.org/camp 9
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES
Protecting the Everglades
Sprawl remains limited in eastern Collier – for now. The RLSA (Rural Land Stewardship Area) in eastern Collier County contains over 180,000 acres of land important to groundwater recharge and wildlife habitat. Overdevelopment in this sensitive area would have a profound effect on the land, water and wildlife that make our region unique.
Dennis Goodman
Protecting our Future
required. At the time that the Board of County Commission approved the concept of these changes, there was no funding available to move forward with processing the amendments. Thus, the RLSA amendments had been dormant. In January, the issue was taken off the table when the Collier County Commissioners voted unanimously If we fail to keep that which to terminate its amendment promakes us special, we will lose the cess for the RLSA program. While this decision concludes, for now, basis for our future growth and a five year battle to ensure future development. development occurs in a responsible manner, the issue is not over. In 2007, Collier County completed a Southwest Florida is a global comprehensive review of the policies destination in large measure becontained within the RLSA plan. The cause we have not, at least not yet, result was a set of amendments to the followed the sprawling development RLSA containing, in the opinion of the pattern of Broward County. If we Conservancy of Southwest Florida, fail to keep that which makes us a set of sweeping changes. The special, we will lose the basis for amendments would have increased our future growth and development. the amount of development allowed With your continued support, we in eastern Collier and reduced the won’t walk away from this issue. amount of environmental mitigation 10
Conservancy of Southwest Florida continues to be a valued partner in Everglades restoration, serving as a cochair of the Everglades Coalition and as the Everglades representative on the national Great Waters Coalition. At the recent Everglades Coalition Conference, “America’s Everglades: Our Legacy, Our Future,” Director of Natural Resource Policy Jennifer Hecker presented in a session about water quality threats to the Everglades. The Conference displayed bipartisan Congressional support with Congressman Mario Diaz Balart, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Congressman Patrick Murphy, Congressman Joe Garcia, and Congresswoman Lois Frankel all in attendance. The Conservancy continued its Everglades advocacy efforts in March when it lobbied on Capitol Hill regarding various pieces of legislation to protect Florida’s water resources and the Everglades.
L to R: Everglades Co-Chair Dawn Sherriffs of National Parks Conservation Association, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Co-Chair Jennifer Hecker of Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Stop the Slime
Conservancy and its partners visited EPA in Tampa to protect Florida’s waters.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida and its Florida Water Coalition partners staged an old fashioned protest of the state’s efforts to undermine meaningful efforts to keep Florida’s waters protected from nutrient pollution, which is generated by sewage and fertilizers. Nutrient pollution is responsible for the slimy harmful algae outbreaks and fish kills plaguing Southwest Florida waters. EPA recently proposed new nutrient pollution standards for 85 percent of Florida’s waters, while approving deficient standards proposed by the state for the remaining 15 percent. Now the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is looking to expand its weak standards to more of Florida’s waters, pressuring EPA to withdraw its more protective standards for those waters in response.
At recent EPA hearings in Tampa, staff and members from the Conservancy and its partner environmental organizations turned out in force to express strong support for EPA to maintain its standards. Conservancy President Andrew McElwaine addressing the “Floridians need to 28th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference. contact EPA and the Obama Administration immediately to convey their support for EPA’s numeric nutrient standards,” says Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy director of natural resource policy. “Otherwise, the state will successfully pressure To learn more on how you can help, EPA to accept deficient substitute visit “Protect Clean Water for standards that will do nothing to Florida!” section at: clean up our waters much less stop conservancy.org/action and our water quality from deteriorating floridawatercoaltion.org further.”
How you can help
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E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
E n v i r o n m e n ta l s c i e n c e
EYE on the ISSUES Paradise no Place for Mining
Dump truck traffic and quality of life don’t mix.
In 2011, the Lee County Commission denied a rezone request by Troyer Brothers Florida, Inc. (Troyer Brothers) for mining within 1,803 acres of agriculturally-zoned land in Lee County’s Density Reduction/ Groundwater Resource (DR/ GR) area. The DR/GR was designated, in part, to protect the County’s potable water resources and wetlands. Conservancy of Southwest Florida and others raised concerns about the mine’s request to excavate to a depth of 110 feet and its location adjacent to important conservation lands. The site contains important wetlands and is also designated as important panther habitat. According to Conservancy Director of Governmental Relations, Nicole Johnson, “The mine is incompatible with rural residential homes and neighborhoods and would impact adjacent roadways adding hundreds of limerock dump trucks daily on the already over-crowded and inadequate State Road 82.” The Conservancy, along with other organizations and concerned citizens, testified that this mine was inconsistent with the Lee Plan’s policies to protect wetlands, listed species and adjacent property owners from incompatible land uses. The Commission agreed and denied the rezone. Shortly thereafter, Troyer Brothers challenged the denial, asking the Circuit Court to review the legality of the Commission’s decision. The Conservancy, the Estero Council of Community Leaders and two individuals supported Lee County in this action by submitting an amicus brief in support of the rezone denial. In January 2013, the Court rejected Troyer Brothers’ arguments and upheld Lee County’s denial of the Troyer Mine and the Conservancy and our partners celebrated this reinforcement of the County’s ability to deny incompatible projects based on inconsistency with County planning regulations. Unfortunately, Troyer Brothers continues to appeal this decision through the courts to the next appellage level, and the case is now in front of the Second District Court of Appeals. According to Johnson, “The Conservancy, with the support of its members and donors, can continue standing by Lee County. We will once again file an amicus brief in support of Lee County’s denial in this additional appeal process.”
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Pythons on the Prowl
Conservancy biologists working towards effective management strategies. Environmentally sensitive areas frame each side of Alligator Alley.
Alligator Alley
Expanding access not necessary. The Alligator Alley portion of I-75 is a link for regional transportation between the east and west coasts of Florida and was designed and built with limited access, in part to reduce impacts in the environmentally sensitive areas adjacent to the roadway. Continued development in rural Collier County, especially in Northern Golden Gate Estates, took its toll on the transportation infrastructure. “The County chose to use their time and resources to justify a new interchange at I-75 and Everglades Boulevard as the primary solution to the local transportation network,” according to Conservancy of Southwest Florida Director of Governmental Relations, Nicole Johnson. However, in December 2012, the Board of County Commissioners and the Collier County Metropolitan Planning Organization Board both voted to defer consideration of the interchange for ten years. This decision was based, in part, on the determination by the Florida Department of Transportation that the need for the interchange could not be justified at this time. Both Boards also gave direction to redirect interchange funds to other critically needed road projects in the Estates area, additional bridges and expansion of Golden Gate Boulevard.
The Burmese python, one of the largest snakes in the world, is a threatened species throughout its native range in southeast Asia. Unfortunately, that is not the case in Florida where the Burmese python is an invasive that has established a wild population from the Florida Keys to Lake Okeechobee - and into portions of Collier County. Burmese pythons prey on a wide variety of native wildlife and have the potential to negatively impact the ecological balance of the Everglades region. “Unfortunately Burmese pythons are here to stay in south Florida, another apex predator for the Everglades region.”
– Ian Bartoszek, Conservancy Biologist
Conservancy biologists have been busy working with many private and public landowners to develop effective python management strategies.
“Unfortunately Burmese pythons are here to stay in south Florida,” reports Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologist Ian Bartoszek who is the current invasive animal team leader for the SW FL Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA), a volunteer group representing public and private entities. They work together to increase awareness of invasive plants and animals and educate the general public and private land managers regarding invasive animals. Other focus areas include training hundreds of agricultural workers on invasive animals and conducting a three day baseline python survey. A researcher from Denison University, the U.S. Geological Survey, Rookery Bay Estuarine Research Reserve and the Conservancy have formed a team that has equipped three pythons with internal radio transmitters to track their movement and distribution in southeastern Collier County.
Conservancy Biologist Ian Bartoszek with eleven foot male python equipped with radio telemetry for tracking.
Contact Conservancy Biologist Ian Bartoszek at 239-403-4208 or ianb@ conservancy.org for any invasive animal questions.
Clam Pass Conundrum
Emergency permit issued. One thing all stakeholders agreed upon was that Clam Pass needed to be reopened as quickly as possible - environmental groups, Pelican Bay and Seagate residents, the public and the County. As of March 1, the County had received all of the permits necessary to re-open Clam Pass. Early on, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida supported a onetime permit with a limited dredging design that would open the Pass. The permitted dredge cut is a smaller footprint than what the County had originally proposed and is well away from the seagrass beds, and therefore less likely to have any impact on them. This approach now allows time for stakeholders to come
up with long-term, holistic solutions for managing the estuary and a longterm dredging template for Clam Pass. While Pass closure for short periods of time should not kill mangroves, continued closure would have become a problem. Summer rains could cause deep water impoundment that would kill off the mangroves, like we saw by Bay Colony so many years ago. Continued closure would also create stagnant water within the estuary, causing a shift in the aquatic communities to only those species capable of surviving in the altered water quality conditions. Once the Pass is functional again, tides will help water circulate, alleviating the impounded conditions
Before permit approval, individuals took matters into their own hands and created a channel at the mouth of the Pass with shovels.
that developed when the Pass was closed. “Right now we had to get the pass open, and this achieves that,” Kathy Worley, director of environmental science, concluded. 13
W i l d l i f e h o s p i ta l
Volunteer services
Rescue with Care Norma Healy
All “abandoned” babies are not orphans.
Stuck
While examining the raccoon with a can stuck on its head, the can loosened just enough to remove it. Since the raccoon didn’t sustain any injuries, we released it within 24 hours of admission.
Missing Parents
JoAnn Johansen, Conservancy Intern & Volunteer Manager Ian M. Wright, Volunteer Connection President
• Protect the baby from danger. Pets and children are the most immediate dangers to a young wild animal, so keep pets and children away. Persuade neighbors to do the same, especially during the spring and summer months.
Car Injury
Sheila Demkovich
This grey fox could not move its back legs and x-rays showed that the fox had a shattered pelvis and a fractured spine. A car strike was the only explanation to cause damage this severe - Photo by Sheila Demkovich.
JoAnn Johansen
Ian Wright
Conservancy Connection President Ian Wright’s term ended in March and his replacement was not yet elected at the time the newsletter went to press.
Wright thanked his fellow volunteers, saying, “I want to thank all the coordinators who have supported me during the last very exciting three years as we planned and began the renovation of the Conservancy Nature Center. It has been an honor to work with such great people as we raised money and saw buildings being raised. Now we look forward to greeting lots of new
• If the young animal is along a roadway, move it to a safer location nearby. Do not endanger yourself or others to rescue it.
• Please do not attempt to keep any wild animal and rehabilitate it on your own. All wild animals have very specific nutritional requirements and behavioral needs. Caring for wildlife the same as you would care for your pet can cause a severe dietary deficiency or result in the animal growing up with abnormal behavioral problems.
• If the young animal appears thin, weak, or injured, please bring it to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
• Remember it is against the law to possess wildlife without the proper permits from the state and federal government.
• If an animal has been attacked by a cat or dog, presume it is injured even if no injury is obvious. Pet attacks usually cause significant internal damage.
Volunteer of the Month
Connection Annual Meeting
Wildlife Tips
Despite attempts to reunite this nestling great horned owl with its parents after it fell from its nest, the owlet is now being raised by a surrogate “mother” in Palm Harbor.
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With baby bird season coming up, the von Arx Wildlife Hospital is very busy. We often receive baby animals that are presumed to be orphans. That is not always the case – most do not need to be rescued. Young wild animals are not constantly watched by their parents and spend large amounts of time alone or with their siblings. If you find a healthy looking young animal that is fully feathered or furred and is able to walk, it probably does not need your help. The parents are usually nearby, even if you do not see them. Observe the young animal from a distance for some time before you call the von Arx Wildlife Hospital or decide to bring the animal in for unnecessary care. Parents are the best at raising the animal.
Volunteer News
Call us at
239.262.CARE (2273) and we will always be glad to assist you in assessing the wildlife situation.
Volunteer TIDBITS
“Patient” Profiles
Joanna Forszpaniak became a proud citizen of the USA on February 24, 2012. She serves the Conservancy as a volunteer in the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, as a greeter and is a docent in the Dalton Discovery Center. Joanna’s many talents have greatly contributed to the Nature Center guest experience.
Peggy Sharp volunteers for special events and at the Upscale Resale Store, and is an award-winning carver of birds, thanks in part to her sister Judi who encouraged her to take a bird carving class in Bala, Ontario, Canada. Her first bird, pictured here, was a Black Capped Chickadee for which she won second place in the beginner division.
CALENDAR EVENTS: Volunteer FORUM: May 5, 2013 Volunteer CONNECTION: 3rd Friday of the month Volunteer Book Club: Friday, April 12th, 10 AM-11:30 AM Lead by Art Ritas. Sapakie Classroom Discussion: Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior
December 2012 James Bigelow
Jim began volunteering in 2007 as part of the team in the Nature Store, utilizing his extensive retail sales experience to enhance the store. Jim is an avid photographer and offers his wildlife photos as a donation to folks who make a donation to wildlife care.
JANUARY 2013 Sharon Truluck After retiring as the Conservancy Human Resources Director in 2008, Sharon returned in 2010 as a volunteer at Clam Pass and became coordinator in 2011. Sharon combines her Master Naturalist knowledge and human relations skills to greatly enhance the experience for our volunteers and visitors to Clam Pass.
February 2013 Charles Aufderhaar Charles joined our team of exceptional Boat Captain volunteers in 2007 and assumed the coordinator position for training and scheduling boat captains in 2008. Charles was inspired to volunteer since he believes “greater environmental stewardship and the Conservancy is the premier organization leading the effort.”
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1450 Merrihue Dr. Naples, FL 34102 www.conservancy.org
Help SAVE FLorida’s Wildife Donate today.
www.conservancy.org/helpwildlife
New Employees Lorna Arnett Lorna has recently joined the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as a sales associate in the Furniture and More Upscale Resale store. She has over 30 years of experience in retail sales, customer service and management. Her Associates of Science degree fuels her enthusiasm to further the work of the Conservancy.
Wendy Larson Wendy Larson joined the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in February as Human Resources Coordinator. She is a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources, and her career has encompassed teaching, counseling and law. Originally from Illinois, Wendy most recently lived in Sarasota prior to relocating to the area. Wendy will be coordinating the HR and employee relations functions.
NEW Interns: Sea Turtle Research Taryn Lourie University of Guelph, Ontario Canada Brittany Fournet Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Jessica Thompson Northern Michigan University Marquette, MI