Conservancy A publication of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
UPDATE
www.conservancy.org
Summer 2008
Conservancy Praises 187,000 Acre Purchase State’s Largest Land Acquisition Sweet Deal for Everglades Restoration Everglades restoration received a boost on June 24, when the State announced the plan to purchase 187,000 acres of strategically located agricultural land from U.S. Sugar. The $1.75 billion deal represents almost 300 square miles, more than twice the size of Orlando, an area recognized by Gov. Charlie Crist as the ‘’missing link’’ to restore the Everglades. Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy natural resources manager, noted that the land purchase provides value to other environmental concerns across southwest Florida. “Unsustainable farming practices in this region have long been considered a hindrance to restoration, blocking natural water flow patterns and contributing fertilizers and pollutants to Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee River. The Conservancy has worked diligently over the past five years advocating that excess water flow from Lake Okeechobee be restored
to its historical path traveling south, allowing for water storage and filtering. Hecker continued, “Those 187,000 acres can hold and cleanse as much as 325 billion gallons of water, which would not only help restore the Everglades, but aid south Florida’s water quality.” The Everglades Foundation estimates that the amount of noxious Lake Okeechobee water that is dumped into the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers will be reduced by 85 percent, and eliminate nearly all pumping of Glades farm runoff into the lake. “This is a major step in the right direction,” said Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president and CEO. “We applaud the land purchase and realize it is a first step forward to true Everglades restoration.” The South Florida Water Management District and U.S. Sugar said they hope to close on the deal by Nov. 30.
Governor Crist
“[the deal] is as monumental as the creation of our nation’s first national park...”
Governor Charlie Crist announcing the state purchase of U.S. Sugar lands as the “missing link” in Everglades restoration on June 24.
INSIDE
In Memory Dorothy Blair page 3
SAVE THE DATE MARCH 5, 2009 page 6
No Place Like Home Conservancy Loggerhead Goes Back to Sea
June 26 was a day of mixed emotions at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida when, after three-years the Conservancy loggerhead sea turtle was ready for release. Four years after being taken to Minnesota by a vacationing tourist on Sanibel Island, and after traveling first class back to Florida, the sea turtle had been everywhere except where it belonged – in the sea. The loggerhead arrived at the Conservancy from the Minnesota Zoo where it was raised from the size of a silver dollar to about 8 inches. The Conservancy had to raise the turtle until it reached nearly 18 inches and 25 pounds, large enough to be released. The turtle was escorted to Goodland and loaded onto one of the Conservancy “turtle boats” used by the environmental science team. Dave Addison, co-director of environmental science and head of the Conservancy 26-year sea turtle protection program, also was present on the boat. “You know how sometimes you get lucky,” Addison said. “This turtle has had several lifetimes of luck.” About 2 miles offshore, Troy Frensley, Discovery Center manager gently placed the turtle, whose fins were flapping wildly, into Gullivan’s Bay. The turtle speedily swam away. “It is bitter sweet, but to see the turtle swim away quickly the search of food is definitely rewarding,” Frensley said. “This is the end result that we want. We were able to successfully re-enter the turtle, and in the process this turtle became an ambassador to so many thousands of people.”
Two Wins for Water Quality page 10
page 8
Nesting Season off to a good start pagepage 8 10
From the President Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life...now and forever. directors Chairman Nicholas G. Penniman IV Past Chair Tuck Tyler Vice Chairman Dolph von Arx President & CEO Andrew McElwaine Treasurer Gary L. Thomas Secretary Pamela C. Williams
BOARD of directors Dawn Allyn
Andrew D.W. Hill
Edith G. Andrew
Rich Housh
Jennifer Cheng
Maureen Lerner
Ted Corbin
Lisa Merritt
Paul Corddry
James T. Murphy
Sue Dalton
Jane Pearsall
J. Dudley Goodlette
Jeanie M. Smith
Jonathan Green
Judith C. Tryka
John Hall
Gene Windfelt
Update is published by the Conservancy Marketing and Communications team Marketing Director & Editor Barbara J. Wilson Writer Lynn Frazer Graphic Designer Kate Kintz
Water, wetlands and wildlife According to the Conservancy’s past chairman Tuck Tyler, there was a time when the Tamiami Trail would be empty in summer. “You could go bowling.” No more. This year’s summer doldrums never came as the Conservancy has worked feverishly on water, wetlands and wildlife. A more cynical person could be excused for supposing that the fewer people in town the more government takes on controversial issues. This summer has been extraordinary for the Conservancy’s wildlife programs. Sea Turtles. Our sea turtle monitoring program reports a substantial increase in nesting turtles and the prospect that, for the first time in years, the number of hatchlings reaching the Gulf of Mexico will increase. The Conservancy has successfully protected nests on Keewaydin by fencing them off from predators and monitoring their success. In addition our partnership with LaPlaya and other area resorts and hotels has educated thousands of visitors about sea turtle preservation. Perhaps the most visible part of our turtle work was the release in June of our resident Loggerhead. In his four years with us we all came to adore him. He had a true personality and educated thousands of visitors about the lives and threats to this amazing animal. We wish him God speed in his new Gulf home. Wildlife Rehabilitation. In the past few weeks our wildlife hospital’s staff has been outstanding. They’ve successfully released a bald eagle and numerous owls, fawns, pelicans and other injured animals. With their own x-ray machine and a lot of hard work they are
We welcome comments and suggestions from readers and ideas for future coverage. Please send feedback to info@conservancy.org or mail your input to: 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
www.conservancy.org
Does your mailing smell funny?
T
Chairman’s Belated Advisory Honor Council Roll
he Chairman’s Advisory Council met during a special luncheon in May. The Council was created last year to recognize members who have been active participants for a significant amount of time and passionate about furthering the mission of the Conservancy. Council members serve three-year terms and are charged with working as “good will” ambassadors for the Conservancy.
That’s because the Conservancy is using environmentally friendly inks and papers.
30 Printers Ink International is proud to be a preferred vendor of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and strives to protect the environment for our children and generations to come by utilizing Soy Bean Inks, and buying products with the FSC label, supporting the growth of responsible forest management worldwide. To learn more contact us at 800-940-1500.
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improving our recovery rate and getting more species back into the wild. Florida Panther. A number of large landowners and three wildlife organizations have teamed up to propose a panther protection program in rural Collier County. These lands hold most of the remaining, unprotected primary panther habitat. The Conservancy is participating in the debate over this plan, and in particular is seeking to ensure that any new development in panther habitat is limited and off-set by significant natural resources preservation. Water and Wetlands. For many years the Conservancy has asked state and federal agencies to acquire sugar farms south of Lake Okeechobee for water treatment and ultimately to restore the Everglades’ wetlands ecosystem. All the while U.S. Sugar insisted that Lake water could not be sent south. Instead, they said, it had to be sent down the Caloosahatchee River to pollute our barrier islands and estuaries. With Florida’s acquisition of U.S. Sugar, potential water storage and filtration becomes available. According to US Sugar’s Vice-President, the state acquired the entire company – “even the half eaten ham sandwich in the refrigerator.” But beyond the $1.7 billion cost of acquiring US Sugar will be that of storing and treating the water. It will run into several hundred millions more. If successful, however, pollution into the Caloosahatchee could be reduced by 85 percent and desperately needed freshwater might finally reach the Everglades.
Council member Lynne Shotwell and Rob Moher, Conservancy VP of Marketing and Development at the May CAC luncheon.
We apologize for omitting the following individuals from the Conservancy 2007 Annual Report and Volunteer Recognition and extend a belated THANK YOU for your invaluable contributions to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
Mr. and Mrs. Albert J. Beliveau, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. W. Robert Clay Mr. and Mrs. Phillip O. Geier, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John A. Leifheit Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Levine Mrs. Edwin Putzell, Jr. Ms. Sue E. Smith Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Springborn Deki Stephenson
S a v i n g s o u t h w e s t f l o r i d a Ca p i t a l Ca m p a i g n
Remembering Dorothy Blair: Rob Moher, Conservancy VP of Development and Marketing “I think the thing I will remember the most about Mrs. Blair is her passion for the environment, and her steadfast commitment to educating current and future generations about the beauty of Southwest Florida. If there was a need to educate the public about an issue or a conservation opportunity, Mrs. Blair was among the first to want to make an investment in that effort. Through her philanthropy, we have been able to accomplish so much more than would have otherwise been possible.”
Mrs. Dorothy Blair dedicating the new Blair House for interns, December 13, 1988.
Celebrating the life of a great philanthropist Long-time Conservancy supporter and Naples of the Conservancy from 1985 to 1986, and philanthropist Dorothy Blair passed in May, leavdonated money for the construction of the ing the Southwest Florida conservation commu“Blair House,” a residential hall for interns, nity to mourn the departure of one of its most and the “Blair Administration Building,” both ardent supporters. on the grounds of the “Dorothy and her Conservancy Nature husband, John, were Center. Mrs. Blair also involved with the provided a major leadConservancy from its ership gift towards very beginning,” said the Conservancy capiAndrew McElwaine, tal campaign, “Saving Conservancy president Southwest Florida.” and CEO. “They played Mrs. Blair received a large role in this orgathe 2008 Consernization’s formation vancy “Eagle Award” and growth. They were in March, during the - Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy President and CEO both people who said, “Magic Under the Man‘Yes! This is what needs groves” event in honor to be done,’ and they would make it happen.” of her devoted commitment to the protection The Blairs moved to Naples in 1967, and of Southwest Florida’s environment and her became active in numerous community organilong-time support of the Conservancy. zations, including the Conservancy, Audubon’s “She stayed engaged in our work, literally until Corkscrew Swamp, Naples Community Hospithis last illness,” McElwaine added. “The Contal, and Planned Parenthood of Collier County. servancy would be a much smaller version of Mrs. Blair served on the Board of Directors itself, if she had not been such a leader.”
“The Conservancy would be a much smaller version of itself, if she had not been such a leader.”
Henry “Heine” Albrecht
Victor von Schlegell, Jr
Long-time Conservancy supporter Henry “Heine” Albrecht died in June. He moved to Naples part-time in 1965, and in the 1980s became a guiding force in the Conservancy. Mr. Albrecht was a life member of the Conservancy, and in 2007, became an Honorary Co-Chair of the Conservancy’s Chairman’s Advisory Council. Mr. Albrecht served on the Long Range Planning Committee of the Board, and chaired the Nominating Committee of the Board. In 2002, he was named “Outstanding Citizen of the Year” by the Naples Daily News.
Staunch environmentalist and Conservancy supporter Victor von Schlegell, Jr., died in March. Mr. von Schlegell served as Chairman of the Board in the late 1980s. He retired to Naples in 1979 and soon after became involved with the Conservancy. Mr. von Schlegell had a generous spirit and dedicated himself to the arts, the environment and the less fortunate during his working life and after retirement. He was active in numerous environmental organizations in Cape Cod, MA.
Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy President and CEO “She was a conservationist through and through. She has left her mark on conservation in Southwest Florida, to the greatest extent of anyone I know.” Dolph von Arx, Conservancy Vice Chairman “We will miss Dorothy very much. She was a lovely lady, very unassuming and down-to-earth, yet tough and not one to shirk if she felt something had to be done. She and her husband, John, made so many important contributions to the Conservancy. They were founding members of the Conservancy. She was especially supportive of the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and environmental education, and through her many generous gifts, including the “Blair House,” Blair Administration Building and her capital campaign donation, she will continue to support the Conservancy and the environment she cared so much about.” Sue Dalton, Conservancy Board of Directors Dorothy’s sensitivity and passion for the environment has had a profound impact on Southwest Florida and will be felt for many decades to come. I fondly remember strolling the grounds of the Conservancy and admiring the beauty of the bronze Blue Heron sculpture given by Dorothy. I am grateful that she opened the door to the Conservancy for me. She was my mentor and a dear friend. I am honored and privileged to have known her. She will be missed, and may her many legacies live on.
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S a v i n g s o u t h w e s t f l o r i d a Ca p i t a l Ca m p a i g n
Conservancy Capital Campaign Building Momentum!
$25 million goal announced January 13 … $23 million now raised! Momentum is building as the Conservancy “Saving Southwest Florida” campaign takes off, with $23 million now raised in this unprecedented effort to give the Conservancy the resources required to protect Southwest Florida’s water, land, wildlife – and future. Although the ambitious goal is nearly met, there are still many ways to get involved. “There are great naming opportunities available for the Environmental Planning Center and endowment options that will ensure future viability of the organization,” said Rob Moher, Conservancy VP of marketing and development. “Naming opportunities range from $25,000 and up, and offer a special way to honor someone.” Contact Rob Moher at 239.403.4205.
A Family Tradition of Giving: Allyn Family Establishes Endowment for WRC Gale Guild recently hosted an Ambassador event to introduce new friends to the Capital Campaign.
“Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign Goals:
• Protect Southwest Florida’s Natural Resources Gifts to this portion of the Campaign will support Conservancy work in environmental advocacy, scientific research, wildlife protection and education programs. • Build a Strong Endowment A strong endowment will ensure that the staff and resources are available to sustain the work of the Conservancy, funding positions and programs with income generated annually. • Create a World-Class Nature Center The new and updated buildings at the Conservancy Nature Center will be a “living” demonstration of sustainable green design features. • Create the Gateway to the Gordon River Greenway Many opportunities exist to help make the new Nature Center a reality. Greening concepts will be used in the new Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Environmental Planning Center, Interactive Learning Center, the Discovery Center and auditorium. To learn more, contact Rob Moher, VP of marketing and development, 239.403.4205
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A Powerful Voice Sonya and William Allyn were involved since the Conservancy beginning.
Protecting the environment – and supporting the work of the Conservancy – is a family tradition for the Allyn family. “My father-in-law, William G. Allyn, was one of the Conservancy’s first supporters,” said Conservancy Board Member Dawn Allyn. “He named an island in Rookery Bay during the first charity ‘auction’ of the islands to raise money to protect the bay.” Mr. Allyn named “his” cluster of mangroves “Noah Island” after his father, William Noah Allyn, who enjoyed fishing in Rookery Bay in the 1940s. “He used to joke that there was nothing in Naples then, just fish and mosquitoes,” Dawn Allyn said. “My father-in-law also loved fishing, and he understood the importance of protecting Southwest Florida’s fragile environment.” In honor of William G. Allyn’s passion for the environment, the Allyn family recently created the “William G. and Sonja F. Allyn Endowment for Wildlife Rehabilitation.” “We felt it was important to continue his commitment to the environment,” added Dawn Allyn. “The staff of the WRC are so dedicated and work so hard, and we want to support the work they do. It’s important for our children and grandchildren, and future generations.”
A special “thank you” to Conservancy Chairman’s Advisory Council member Peter Thomas for lending his world-famous voice to the Conservancy. Mr. Thomas, who has narrated numerous television specials, including work for PBS and National Geographic, narrated the Conservancy “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign DVD.
Sustainable Campus Groundbreaking in near future Permitting is now underway for the ‘new’ Conservancy Nature Center. Expect a new entrance from Goodlette-Frank Road, shared with the future Gordon River Greenway Park and possibly the zoo. New and expanded buildings will include an Environmental Planning Center, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, INteractive Learning Center, auditorium and Discovery Center. The aging Nature Center needs a makeover. Outdated facilities are unable to meet the growing demand for environmental education and the energy-“inefficient” buildings aren’t equipped to meet the need for energy and resource conservation. Conservancy of Southwest Florida Business
Manager, Curtis Cafiso, who is spearheading the project along with architect Larry Warner, Heatherwood Construction and Hole Montes, Inc., summarized the philosophy of the team working on the project. “We’re committed to sustainability. We want people to look to the Conservancy as a leader in conserving our environment.” Cafiso continued, “Sustainability features are included in the building designs, construction, renovation, procurement, landscape, energy, water, waste, emissions, transportation and human health and productivity. Our goal is to create a “green” model that can be replicated by the everyday person using mostly everyday
materials.” Buildings will incorporate automated controls for as many systems as possible -- including lighting, heating, air conditioning, security and accessibility. Some of these systems can save substantially on energy costs and pay for themselves within a few years. For example, the project team is experimenting with a unique, patent pending design for “closed-loop” geothermal cooling systems that takes advantage of the tidal flow that occurs in the groundwater found in coastal locations. The design holds the promise to provide air conditioning at a greatly reduced cost to the organization.
Some interesting green building elements include: BAMBOO
Rapidly renewable materials like bamboo, straw, sheep wool, sisal, seagrass, baked earth and cork
LUMBER
Lumber from forests certified to be sustainably managed
STONE/METAL
Recycled stone and metal used throughout
LOCAL
Building materials extracted and manufactured locally to minimize energy used in their transportation
FILTER MARSH
The new campus will also include the installation of 2 filter marsh systems to filter stormwater before leaving our property and rainwater collection systems for graywater plumbing. There will be protection and relocation of desirable native and historic tree species for landscaping with no onsite irrigation. Pictured left: Conservancy interns, Sarah Funck and Gavin Richards, working on initial preparation for the filter marsh.
Make your mark on the Campus!
Nature Center Naming Opportunities The Conservancy thanks all generous Capital Campaign donors to date that have already brought our total to $23 million. Your investment has demonstrated your commitment to sustainable design and the core values of the Conservancy mission.
Renderings of interactive exhibits and potential for the future Discovery Center.
Many more opportunities to participate and create a vision for the future. A few examples of such naming opportunities are listed on the right. For more information, please contact Rob Moher, VP marketing and development at 239.403.4205.
Discovery Center: The new nature Discovery Center is the interpretive hub of the new campus. Naming opportunities range from $25,000 to $500,000 to support the development of new interactive and immersive exhibits designed to showcase the region’s natural ecosystems and the Conservancy’s efforts to protect them.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: The new Center will provide state of the art rehabilitative care to the region’s native injured animals. Naming opportunities exist in the $25,000 – $300,000 range in both the clinic building and for the outside enclosure and interpretive pavilion.
Environmental Planning Center: The new EPC will house our policy, science and education teams. It s a 17,000 sq ft certified “green” center. Consider investing in new laboratories for our science team or conference space for our policy team. Opportunities range from $25,000 – $1,000,000.
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M A GIC UNDER THE M A NGROVE S 2 0 0 8
Magic raises more than $360,000 Over 450 friends of the Conservancy attended the fifth annual “Magic Under the Mangroves” event in March, raising more than $360,000 for the organization. The ever-popular event is now recognized as one of the top 10 fundraising events in Southwest Florida. “It was a wonderful event thanks to the dedication and hours of hard work from the committee, staff and volunteers,” said Conservancy board member and Event Chair Maureen Lerner. “We tried to achieve a balance of beauty and eco-consciousness,” noted Lerner. The fine food was exclusively domestic, and sourced from local farms when possible. At the patron party on Keewaydin Island, bamboo plates were used since it’s a quickly renewable and easily biodegradable material.
“We tried to achieve a balance of beauty and eco-consciousness.”
Fund-a-Need in action
Thanks to the hard work and leadership provided by Conservancy Biologist Ian Bartoszek, more than 30 “fund-a-need” items received $55,000 in generous support from “Magic” guests for items ranging from calipers to measure sea turtles, a 4 x 4 ATV for Western Everglades research projects and a golf cart to transport animals to an on-site x-ray machine, intern positions, training workshops, field equipment and even feeding the pelicans for one month at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. To donate to “Fund-a-Need” contact Rob Moher at 239.403.4205.
Special thank you to our Magic Under the Mangroves presenting sponsor.
– Maureen Lerner, 2008 Event Chair
The tent lighting was energy-friendly LED, and instead of a traditional printed program, event information was projected on video screens stationed around the room. During the event, Mrs. Dorothy Blair was honored with the “Eagle Award” for her longtime support of the Conservancy. Conservancy board member Pamela Williams served as the Chair for the popular live, silent and “Fund-a-Need” auctions. Since the event’s inception, U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management has been the presenting sponsor of this signature fund-raising event.
Former Magic Chair Sue Dalton, who helped establish the “Magic” vision, with current Chair Maureen Lerner and Kathy Prosser-Bovard, past Conservancy president.
Save the Date
Bank of America and U.S. Trust Private Wealth Management VP Geri Moll and her husband John.
Thank you to our Magic Under the Mangroves Patron party sponsor.
March 5, 2009
at beautiful Wrenwood Farms 6
Maureen Lerner and Eagle Award recepient, the late Dorothy Blair.
Ted Corbin (left) and Paul Dresselhaus (right) of BNY Mellon, sponsor of the Patron Party with Lindsay Crabtree and Cindi Dresselhaus.
CO n s e r v a n c y e v e n t s
Earth Day Celebration Draws Record Crowds Thousands celebrated Planet Earth during the Conservancy Earth Day Celebration weekend in April. The earth-friendly family fun included live entertainment, face painting, children’s art classes, a farmer’s market featuring locally-grown and organic foods, native plants sales, environmental education classes and a drawing for prizes generously donated by community businesses.
Nordstrom Store Opening Gala to Raise Money for Conservancy BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Seattle-based Nordstrom, Inc. will celebrate the opening of its Naples store at Waterside Shops with an evening gala that is expected to raise $125,000 for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Community Foundation of Collier County and The League Club. The spectacular gala will be held on Wednesday, November 5 at 6:00 p.m., two days before the store’s grand opening on Friday, November 7. Guests at the party will enjoy lavish hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner and desserts, live entertainment and the opportunity to shop the new 77,000-squarefoot store. Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased by calling 239.649.5000, ext. 208 or visiting www.cfcollier.org.
TIDBITS:
FUNDRAISER
The Florida Everblades raised over $3,000 for the Conservancy when they auctioned their green hockey sticks at an April game. Go ‘Blades!
RETIREMENT
Executive Assistant Jeanie FisCher has taken early retirement to spend time with her grandchildren in Pennslyvania.
CHARITY of the YEAR
Waterside Shops has selected the Conservancy as their “Charity of the Year.” All coins collected from their fountains through March 2009 will benefit the Conservancy.
Honored
Jeff Schmid, Ph.D., Conservancy biologist, was honored by U.S. Fish and Wildlife to serve as a peer reviewer on the revised Kemp Ridley Sea Turtle Recovery Plan. Jeff is one of only four people serving on this committee.
Best of wishes to Carol Maus, former Director of Planned Gifts, who has retired to spend more time with her family.
AWARDS
Congratulations to Kate Kintz, Conservancy graphic designer, who was recognized for her excellence in graphic design. The Conservancy won six regional silver “Addy” awards and six national awards from GraphicDesignUSA .
FAREWELL
Steve Carbol, Environmental education manager, recently moved to Colorado Springs, CO to become Manager of Education for the American Birding Association.
LEADERSHIP
TRIBUTE
Severin Beliveau, brother of Conservancy volunteer and former Connection president and board member Darby Beliveau, was awarded France’s Legion of Honor, on May 14.
Nicole Ryan, Conservancy Governmental Relations Manager, was recently selected to participate in the Leadership Institute, a program administered through the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce and Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy Natural Resources Policy Manager, recently completed and graduated with the 2008 Leadership Collier Class. Both leadership programs are dedicated to building a network of community leaders to address community-wide challenges.
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ENVIRONMENT A L S CIENCE
Sea Turtle Nesting Begins T he sea turtle nesting season officially began on May 1, and according to Dave Addison, manager of the long-running Conservancy Sea Turtle Monitoring and Research Project, the program’s 27th season is off to a good start. “The nesting has been consistent and running ahead of last year,” he noted. “So far, so good.” The Conservancy Turtle Team has already protected more than 114 sea turtle nests on Keewaydin Island, a barrier island just south of Naples. The beach is patrolled nightly by Conservancy biologists and interns. They measure and tag each nesting turtle, record the site and date of the nest and cover the nest with a protective cage to keep raccoons and other predators away from the vulnerable eggs. Once the eggs hatch, each nest is evaluated for productivity. Last year, the team began using state-of-theart PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) tags, in addition to metal flipper tags. The PIT tags, funded through the Magic Under the Mangroves “Fund-a-Need” auction, are about the size of a grain of rice, and are injected under the skin of the nesting turtles. Each tag is encoded with a unique number that can be read by a hand-held scanner. Although the PIT tags are extremely reliable and don’t fall off like the metal tags, Addison noted that they probably won’t see any of last year’s PIT tags this year. “The turtles usually nest every other year, but we’ll check all the nesting turtles for PIT tags,” he said. “We’ve seen some of these same turtles over the last 19 years. The PIT tags will allow us to keep better track of some ‘old friends’ out there.”
Turtle Team Helps Other Researchers The Conservancy team of biologists and interns assist with other sea turtle research projects, including a Mote Marine Study on the temperature of the sand at nesting sites, a DNA study being conducted by a graduate student at the University of Georgia, and an ongoing study of sand temperature within the nest chamber with staff from Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
DAVE ADDISON: “The nesting has been consistent and running ahead of last year . . . so far, so good.”
DONATE ONLINE: www.conservancy.org
Supporters Meet PPJ739 During the recent Sea Turtle fundraising appeal, supporters were introduced to PPJ739, a female loggerhead sea turtle who has returned to Keewaydin Island at least seven times over the last 19 years. Last year, she received a PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) tag, which will allow researchers to identify her, even if she loses her metal flipper tag. “In those seven years, PPJ739 has laid 30 documented nests, and in all probability, another eight nests not confirmed,” said Dave Addison, Conservancy science department co-director and manager of the Conservancy Sea Turtle Monitoring Project. Scientists estimate that only one in 1,000 loggerhead hatchlings reaches maturity. Based on this estimate, PPJ739 has produced approximately 2,500 hatchlings or approximately 2.5 sea turtles. “Turtles like PPJ739 have contributed so much to our knowledge of loggerhead sea turtles,” Addison added. “They only come ashore to nest, so it’s our only chance to study them -- and hopefully learn how we can help them survive.” Thanks to the generosity of turtle supporters, over $31,000 was raised for the sea turtle program.
DIRTY JOBS! Water Quality Monitored by Conservancy Volunteers
Lakewatch volunteers Sue Smith and Gersha Bayer
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Collecting samples of water from drainage ditches is the down-and-dirty job of four dedicated Conservancy volunteers who, under supervision of Conservancy Science staff, are part of Florida’s innovative “Lakewatch” program. Since 2004, Susan Snyder and Pat Tarnow (winter), and Sue Smith and Gersha Bayer (summer) have collected water samples as part of the Lakewatch program, now one of the largest lake/estuary volunteer monitoring programs in the nation. More than 1,800 trained citizens monitor more than over 600 lakes and estuaries throughout 40 Florida counties. The program is coordinated
through the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences/Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences. Once a month, the volunteers travel to sites off Pine Ridge Road to collect samples from two drainage ditches. The samples are returned to the Conservancy and later picked up by the University of Florida for analysis of basic nutrients and chlorophyll. The data then goes into a country-wide data base and is used by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Protection Agency to evaluate and rank water bodies for impairment.
ENVIRONMENT A L s c i e n c e
Elusive Treefrogs Returns to Western Everglades This “indicator” species mirrors the health of the water supply After four weeks of surveying amphibian species at night in the Picayune Strand State Forest, Conservancy Biologist Melinda Schuman finally located the tiny tree dweller she’d been hoping to find -- the Pinewoods Treefrog (Hyla femoralis). “It was very exciting to finally observe a Pinewoods Treefrog in its natural habitat,” Schuman said. “At first I wasn’t sure if I had actually caught one, but the spots on the inner thigh helped to accurately identify it.” The search for the elusive amphibian is part of the Conservancy’s ongoing work in Western Everglades Restoration – and the little frog may play a big part in understanding the success of those restoration projects. “The Pinewoods Tree Frog is an ‘indicator’ species,” Schuman added. “The health of their population mirrors the health of their environment since they are especially sensitive to changes in water quality or quantity. As canals
are filled and a more historic water flow is restored, this species will hopefully return to more areas in the Picayune Strand State Forest. Amphibians such as these offer us the opportunity to monitor the success of the restoration as its progressing.” The Pinewoods Treefrog is typically found in pine flatwoods, where they like to be as high as 30 feet up, feeding on insects. In the drained and disturbed Picayune Strand State Forest, however – once part of Southern Golden Gate Estates slated to be the world’s largest housing development – canals have drained away vital stands of water this species needs to breed. Throughout the summer, Schuman will continue to visit the project’s 27 sampling sites (20 sites are in the Picayune Strand State Forest and 7 sites are in the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve), accompanied by Gavin Richards, a Conservancy intern or Conservancy Biologist Ian Bartoszek.
Ian Bartoszek: “These little frogs are tremendously important to our understanding of the Everglades ... They are barometers of our ecosystem.”
Conservancy Panther Research Published David Shindle, Conservancy biologist and Florida panther expert, has co-authored a manuscript entitled, “Florida Panther Habitat Selection Analysis of Concurrent GPS and VHF Telemetry Data,” featured in the April issue of the Journal of Wildlife Management. The manuscript details the first deployment of GPS radio-collars on Florida panthers, and represents the first habitat selection analyses of panther telemetry data collected during both diurnal and nocturnal periods. Shindle was recently also selected by a Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) review committee as a Black Bear Response Agent for Collier County. Agents are contracted to investigate and assist the FWC with vehicle-hit bears, carcass recoveries, and black bear deterrent and capture efforts. “Having a wildlife habitat specialists on board with Shindle’s credentials increases the Conservancy’s ability to influence the policies and plans that protect our lands and wildlife,” explained Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president and CEO.
The only way to properly identify the Pinewoods Treefrog is by the yellow blotches on the inner thigh.
Getting to some of the sites isn’t easy, and requires an ATV trip and a hike through the swamp -- at night. “I was a little nervous at first,” Schuman admitted. “But, I’ve gotten used to it, and it’s actually a lot of fun. I’ve grown especially fond of reptiles and amphibians during the wetlands research projects that I’ve worked on with the Conservancy.” The team begins with an “audible” survey, listening for each species distinct call, then does a VES survey -- visual encounter survey. “Basically, we walk around with headlamps and try to capture, measure and then release as many frogs and toads as we can in 20 minutes,” said Schuman. “These little frogs are tremendously important to our understanding of the Everglades,” added Bartoszek. “They are barometers of our ecosystem. When they come back into the disturbed areas of the Picayune Strand State Forest, we’ll begin to be able to measure the success of Western Everglades Restoration.”
Gone Wild! PBS “Wild Florida” program showcases Conservancy work The Conservancy science team – and their amphibian research project – were recently featured on PBS’s award-winning television show “Wild Florida.” Conservancy biologists Melinda Schuman and Ian Bartoszek took Wild Florida Conservancy biologist, Melinda Schuman, doing field in Fakahatchee Strand for the PBS show “Wild host Hunter Reno and a PBS film crew into work Florida” the Fakahatchee and Picayune Strands for a close-up look at the Conservancy amphibian research project -- and the big part tiny frogs play in helping to measure the success of Western Everglades restoration project and the health of our ecosystems. “It was a bit intimidating at times to be on-camera,” admitted Bartoszek, “but, sharing information about the lesser known animals that we work with is an essential part of our work.” Schuman and Bartoszek demonstrated how the frogs are captured, measured and identified, and discussed which species were found in natural and disturbed habitats. “There are currently 16 species of anurans (frogs and toads) in Collier County,” Bartoszek said. “During the summer mating season, they can each be identified from a distance by their distinctive breeding calls.” Troy Frensley, manager of the Conservancy Discovery Center, also appeared in the program and explained the impact non-native frogs and toads have on Southwest Florida’s environment and the role they play in protecting our quality of life. The “Wild Florida” episode premiered on Florida’s east coast in April (on WPBT-TV, Palm Beach) and is slated to air on southwest Florida’s PBS station, WGCU-TV (cable channel 3) this summer. For air dates, visit www.wgcu.org.
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Conservancy of Southwest Florida
EYE ISSUES on the
Protecting Southwest Florida’s Water:
Conservancy efforts span ditches, fertilizers and D.C. Drainage Fertilizer lobbying Ditch Derails for Florida rules get a “Green” light Waters
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n approved application to dig a fourmile-long drainage ditch in southern Lee County was withdrawn in March -- on the day the Conservancy was scheduled to question the initial expert in our permit challenge of the project. “We have actively worked against this ditch that would have drained hundreds if not thousands of acres of high-quality wetlands vital to our water quality and water supply,” said Conservancy President and CEO Andrew McElwaine.
With input and assistance from the Conservancy, two strong, effective fertilizer ordinances were recently adopted in the City of Naples and Lee County. “Stormwater runoff filled with nutrients from fertilized lawns is a significant source of pollution in Southwest Florida,” said Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy natural resources policy manager. “Ordinances like these are a key part of our work to protect regional water quality by reducing runoff pollution at its source.” Both ordinances include educational outreach programs to help residents select environmentally-responsible fertilizer products, and regulate application rates and methods -including a “No Fertilizer” buffer zone within 10 feet of water bodies. “This is a very important first step to improving our regional water quality and stemming future harmful algal bloom outbreaks, fish kills and other environmentally detrimental effects of nutrient pollution,” added Hecker. Conservancy staff members are now working with the City of Bonita Springs to develop an effective fertilizer ordinance.
“We actively worked against this ditch that would have drained highquality wetlands vital to our water quality.” -Andrew McElwaine
The permit application from Agripartners Ltd. Partnership and Edison Farms, Inc. assumed only the 16 acres of wetlands that were being excavated for the ditch construction. However, the Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council estimated the impact closer to 1,283 acres due to the drainage of adjacent wetland areas. Such massive wetland drainage would destroy wading bird habitat and the natural water filtration and flood protection that wetlands provide. Lee County Commissioners unanimously voted to ask for the permit application to be withdrawn as the proposed ditch would impact southwest Florida’s drinking water supplies in an important area designated in south Lee County for water recharge. “Support from engaged citizens, such as those in the Brooks and Estero communities, increased the public awareness and political will necessary to bring closer scrutiny to this very detrimental project,” said Conservancy Natural Resources Policy Manager Jennifer Hecker. McElwaine noted, however, “Although this is an important win for the environment, it isn’t over. That would be wishful thinking. The ditch will probably be back at some point.”
Wading Wood Stork.
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Jennifer Hecker and fellow delegate Rae Ann Wessel outside the Capitol building.
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onservancy of Southwest Florida Natural Resources Policy Manager Jennifer Hecker joined more than 90 others to connect with national decision makers and lobby for key Southwest Florida environmental projects at the Fifth Annual National River Action Day held in Washington, D.C. in June. Sponsored by the American Rivers Association, Hecker lobbied Senators and Congressmen for support of the “Clean Water Restoration Act.” If successful, the act will restore federal authority over all waters “subject to the ebb and flow of the tide,” including short hydro-period wetlands. Currently, some developers are no longer required to get a federal permit for development in short hydro-period wetlands. “These short hydro-period wetlands are so critical for the survival of Southwest Florida’s endangered wood storks, other wading birds and a variety of plants and other species,” stated Hecker. “National River Action Day is an invaluable opportunity to inform – and influence – decision-makers about critical water resource issues facing Southwest Florida and the Western Everglades,” Hecker said. “Last year, we were successful in helping to get the Water Resources Development Act passed, and in getting funding for the Picayune Strand State Forest Everglades restoration project. I hope we will be as successful this year.”
“Ordinances like these are a key part of our work to protect regional water quality by reducing runoff pollution at its source.” - Jennifer Hecker
Finding Friendly Fertilizers For more information about finding environmentally-friendly fertilizers – or creating yards that don’t need fertilizers – visit the Florida Yards and Neighborhoods website at www.fyn.ifas.ufl.edu.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
EYE ISSUES on the
Collier Rural Lands:
Development in some of the last remaining acres in Collier County deserves public debate and consideration. Collier County’s “Rural Lands Stewardship Area” (RLSA) program, hailed when it was adopted in 2002 as a landmark plan to protect eastern Collier rural lands and prevent urban sprawl, is undergoing its first five-year review. Since November, the Conservancy has been strongly advocating a list of recommended changes to be considered during the review process. The intention of the original plan was to limit urban sprawl in rural areas, and offer incentives for landowners to remove environmentally-incompatible land uses from sensitive lands. Credits earned for removing land uses could then be transferred to more appropriate areas, allowing development of higherdensity projects on these less sensitive lands.
ural Resources Policy Manager Jennifer Hecker. “We’re strongly advocating that the RLSA program be improved to provide additional incentives for protection of these critical habitat and natural resource areas.” In November, the Conservancy proposed 20 points of improvement for the RLSA to be included in the five-year review process and Conservancy Governmental Relations Man-
ager, Nicole Ryan, is actively involved in the process. “The Conservancy supports the concept of the Rural Lands Stewardship Area program,” said Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president and CEO. “We believe there can be a balance between conservation, agricultural preservation and development in appropriate areas.”
“We believe there can be a balance between conservation, agricultural preservation and development in appropriate areas.” - Andrew McElwaine
Those credits have allowed the development of the new town of Ave Maria and Ave Maria University, and laid the ground work for a proposal to the RLSA review committee to build a second new town called Big Cypress. “The current RLSA program allows for development in habitat areas that panther experts have determined essential in maintaining the existing population of the critically endangered Florida panther,” said Conservancy Nat-
Panther Program/Agricultural Development Proposed Landowners and wildlife groups brought forth a “Panther Protection Plan” before the RLSA review committee on July 1. The Conservancy was present when the plan was released to the RLSA advisory committee. President and CEO Andrew McElwaine attended the meeting and urged “caution and analysis.” The Conservancy understands that part of the proposal will allow an additional 15,000 acres of development above what is allowed by the current RLSA program. Unlike the existing program, the new proposal would provide additional development without additional preservation of natural lands. Instead the development would be allowed in exchange for agricultural preservation. The Conservancy stressed that the following key points be taken into consideration before additional development is approved:
Ensure that appropriate avoidance and minimization efforts on Florida panther habitat has been explored before mitigation is considered. Determine specific areas of proposed development to measure the degree of impact, or the mitigation necessary, to protect natural resources. Villages remain at their current size to ensure new development in eastern Collier County is self-sufficient and sustainable. Minimize impacts from new roads and transportation infrastructure needed to serve the needs of any additional development to avoid and minimize impacts to environmentally sensitive areas and not create an undue burden on the taxpayers.
“RLSA review needs to be approached with great care,” says McElwaine. “Proposed revisions should make clear exactly where development will take place and which natural resource areas will be protected. A good RLSA plan will utilize best-available science to ensure that development, natural resources conservation and panther protection will be achieved.” McElwaine summarized, “The Conservancy will stay actively involved in the RLSA review process.” Conservancy members and supporters are encouraged to get involved with the RLSA review and make your opinions heard. Please contact Jennifer Hecker (x250) or Nicole Ryan (x220) at 239.262.0304 Or email: jenniferh@conservancy.org or nicoler@conservancy.org. for additional details and how you can get involved.
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E n v i ro n m e n ta l e d u c at i o n
Kid Power! Two Kids Raise nearly $1,000 for the Conservancy
ask the
naturalist by Conservancy Naturalist Beth Fellini
Help sea turtles survive • If you see a nesting sea turtle, stay at least 30 feet away. Don’t shine flashlights into the turtle’s face or take flash photographs. • Turn off beach facing lights. Hatchlings instinctively head towards the brightest light on the horizon, which should be the moon -- not houses and headlights.
Kristi DeBruzzi presents the donation check for the money Kristi raised to Troy Frensley.
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ix-year old Luke Peterson and nine-year old Kristi DeBruzzi were so inspired by their visit to the Conservancy Nature Center, they raised money on their own to support the organization’s efforts to protect southwest Florida’s environment. Instead of birthday presents, Luke Peterson, from Barrington, IL, asked friends to send a contribution to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, raising more than $520 for the organization. Kristi DeBruzzi, from Park Ridge, IL, was so moved by the plight of Florida’s panthers that she went door-to-door in her Chicago area neighborhood to collect more than $320 to help save the endangered big cats. Thank YOU Luke and Kristi!
manatee
rescue
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission worker and Conservancy staff Rebecca Galligan and Kathy Worley hold the underweight rescued manatee before being transported to Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa for rehabilitation.
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• Don’t leave chairs or other potential impediments to nesting sea turtles on the beach. • Use reusable canvas bags when shopping and help break the trash train of plastic bags, which often end up in the water and look like jelly fish to sea turtles and other marine life -- with deadly results.
Q: When can I see sea turtles nesting on the beach? A: Sea turtle nesting season in Florida – Brian M. Naples
is generally from May 1st to late October. The turtles come ashore only at night, and are easily spooked by lights or movement on the beach. Onlookers are highly discouraged. In fact, it is illegal to touch or “harass” a nesting sea turtle or to harm/kill sea turtles, eggs or hatchlings.
Sea Turtle Festival:
RECORD Crowd says “Goodbye” to Resident Turtle In May, more than 2,000 people came to say goodbye to the Conservancy’s resident sea turtle. The celebration send-off included turtle “good-bye” Cards, crafts, face painting and a turtle-shaped cake from Whole Foods. Conservancy volunteers, community volunteers and Conservancy staff ensured it was a fun – and educational – day for all. Festival goers donated over $4,500 to the Conservancy that day. The turtle was released into the prime sea turtle habitat of the Ten Thousand Islands. To listen to a song written and performed by Andy Wahlberg about the Conservancy sea turtle, visit www.conservancy.org.
Above right: Loggerhead Construction provided a “good-bye” mural for visitors to write their farewells. Below: Families enjoy making turtle tamborines with Conservancy Earth Day partner, the Von Liebig Center.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
SPOTLight Awards
Field Study
wildlife tour
The Conservancy received recognition as a “Family Friendly Workplace” and “Best Places to Work” award.
Conservancy supporters accompany Biologist Ian Bartoszek on an exploration of the study area for the Everglades Mink project.
Long time supporters of the WRC, the Saldukas family, visit the WRC.
Conservancy HR Director Sharon Truluck and Commissioner Colletta.
Ian Bartoszek, Chairman of the Board, Nick and Linda Penniman and friends.
Joanna Fitzgerald-Vaught, Conservancy WRC Manager; Dr. Steven Saldukas , son Matthew and grandmother Lois Saldukas.
Golf Tournament
DOnations
Sea Turtle Festival
The Conservancy’s 29th Annual Golf Tournament was held at Bear’s Paw Country Club on April 14. Wasmer, Schroeder & Company, Inc sponsored the event which raised over $30,000.
Naples teen donated $300 to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center from his Eagle Scout Project along with picnic tables that he built.
The Conservancy offered a free event on May 17, 2008 to say good-bye to the Nature Discovery Center loggerhead turtle which was released at 10,000 Islands in late June .
Chairman John Wasmer III and Committee members Mic Lundon & Sally Masters
Matthew Zacher
Conservancy Event Coordinator, Meghan Clancy and Whole Foods Store Team Leader, Damien Garcia prepare “turtle” cake at the Sea Turtle Festival.
RedSnook is Back! October 3-5. Roland Martin Honorary Chair for Second Year
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his catch and release tournament raised over $45,000 for Conservancy water protection programs in its first year and the RedSnook Committee is gearing up for an even greater year. Former chairs Jim Lozelle and Gil LaCroix have been working with other committee members collecting unbelievable auction items, including weekly use of a “to-die-for” 10,000 square foot home in Manzanilla, Mexico. According to Andy Hill, this year’s event chair, “Heatherwood Construction is our presenting sponsor and last year’s sponsors have signed on again. We’re still in the process of adding even more.” Other sponsors include M&I Bank, Comcast, ESPN-AM Radio and Florida Fishing Weekly. (Florida Fishing Weekly is offering Conservancy members a special subscription rate.) Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president and CEO, applauds the RedSnook Committee members for their hard work and perseverance. “Andy Hill, Roland Martin, the sponsors and the committee members have been excellent ambassadors to introduce the Conservancy to the angling community.” The committee expects to raise over $60,000. “If all Conservancy supporters participate in the auction at the October 3 ‘Kick-Off’ party at the Naples Yacht and Harbor Club, I know we can surpass our goal,” announced Andy Hill. Competition is October 4-5 and awards ceremony is October 5. Register today at www.conservancy.org.
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w i l d l i f e r e h ab i l i t a t i o n c e n t e r
New at the WRC…
Flying Free Onsite X-Ray Machine! Again! Conservancy of Southwest Florida Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WRC) team release a bald eagle back into the wild at Mediterra in North Naples June 1. The eagle spent the past five months recovering from a broken left wing. “It was one of those success stories we weren’t sure would happen,” according to Joanna Fitzgerald-Vaught, WRC manager.
Thanks to generous donations, the WRC team now has a new golf cart (from the von Arx family) to transfer animals to be examined with the new state-of-the-art digital x-ray machine.
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he ever-busy Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WRC) received a much-needed boon in March – a previously-used x-ray machine and a state-of-the-art digital x-ray processor. According to WRC Manager Joanna Fitzgerald Vaught, the machine has transformed operations at the WRC. “We’re at a whole new level now,” she said. “We can diagnose injuries immediately and don’t have to go to our volunteer veterinarians so often. And, its much less stress on the animals.” The used x-ray machine was donated by Dr.
Brown, local veterinarian who was upgrading the system at his clinic. The new x-ray digital processor purchase was completed by generous donations from the Baldwin and Saldukas Family Foundations. All donors recognized the importance of providing quick access to the potentially life-saving machine. The processor is entirely digital, and requires no film or chemicals. “It’s wonderful to be able to take an x-ray right away and immediately see if an injury is repairable,” Fitzgerald-Vaught said. “We can even e-mail the x-rays to the vets, so treatment is so much faster for the animals.”
Dining for Wildife raises over $24,000 Thanks to the hard work of volunteer Jo Dingler and her Dining for Wildlife committee, over $24,000 was raised for the Conservancy Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Over 750 people dined at participating restaurants that donated proceeds from the culinary event. Dining for Wildlife restaurants: Aldo’s; Alexander’s; Bamboo; Bay House; Bistro 821; Bleu Provence; Dock at Crayton Cove; Evoo;
Fleming’s; Kretch’s; HB’s on the Gulf; House of Mozart; Le Bistro; Preston’s; Ridgway’s; Riverwalk; Restaurante Ciao; Real McCaw; St. George & Dragon; Sushi Thai; Turtle Club. Conservancy Dining for Wildlife Committee: Jo Dingler; Joan Weber; Barbara Rohrer; Sue Russell; Susan Kubat; Fran Huxley; Michelle Schwebber; Judith Tryka; Barbara McDowell; Sue Smith; Mary Witzke.
Volunteer Dining for Wildlife Chair, Jo Dingler, gives the thumbs up for raising over $24,000.
Baby Boom
Rebecca Galligan feeds two fawns.
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The annual spring “baby boom” is underway at the WRC, and a record number of fawns and baby bunnies have been brought to the Center. “We’ve had about 10 fawns this year, and we don’t know why we’re seeing so many,” said WRC Manager Joanna Fitzgerald Vaught. “They are very difficult to rehabilitate since they need a lot of space and can easily habituate to humans.” Although the fawns were put in a large recovery enclosure at the back of the WRC, the spacious cage proved too big for the little deer – at least at night – when a prowling bobcat frightened the fawns. Vaught knew she needed a “barn” for inside the enclosure to keep the fawns in overnight – and she needed it fast. Larry Wolny of Sierra Contractors, Inc. built and installed the barn in just two days. “We are so appreciative of Larry and his crew for helping us so quickly with this emergency,” Fitzgerald-Vaught said. Baby bunnies are also doing better this year, after the WRC received a $3,000 grant from the Oxbow Pet Products company for a special rabbit enclosure. “Baby bunnies are so delicate that they can actually die from stress,” noted Fitzgerald-Vaught. “We had to get them out of the busy rehab center and into a separate, quiet area out back.” Volunteer Bruce Robertson built the special enclosure, which has open screen walls and five individual cages, plus room to move around and perform treatments on animals requiring special care. “Our release rate is up 75 percent now for bunnies,” Vaught added happily.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
VOLUNTEERnews And the Ribbon goes to…YOU!
AWARDS: Volunteer Susan Snyder
In honor of our “Blue Ribbon” volunteers who give so much to the Conservancy, I invite you to recognize our top-notch team by honoring them with a blue ribbon. Please send the names of up to three volunteers you would like to honor with a blue ribbon to joannj@conservancy.org and I will post the names of these speciallynominated volunteers -- and award the honorees with a blue ribbon. Plans are already underway for next season. Watch your e-mail for information on upcoming volunteer opportunities, including (drum roll please) … the return of Briggs Boardwalk eco-tours!
and Conservancy graphic designer Kate Kintz were awarded a national silver award from Graphic Design USA for their collaboration on a new brochure for the butterfly garden.
Connect with the Connection
WE NEED YOU:
The Conservancy Connection was founded on November 12, 1996 to assist the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and to enhance the Conservancy volunteer experience. ALL Conservancy volunteers are members of the Connection. The Connection is now 12 years old, and our name says it all – CONNECT. We connect volunteers to the Conservancy Board of Directors, connect volunteers to the Conservancy staff and connect volunteers to volunteers! The Connection operates under the direction of a large Board of Directors that represents all areas where volunteers work. The Connection President provides the volunteers with a voice on the Conservancy Board of Directors. The Volunteer Services Manager acts as the staff advisor to the Connection Board. The Connection Board meets on the third Friday of every month at 10 a.m.
Get involved as a VOLUNTEER! There’s a fulfilling -- and fun -- volunteer job waiting for you. Go to www.Conservancy. org to access a Volunteer Application or call JoAnn Johansen at 239.403.4212 for more information. SUMMERTIME VOLUNTEERS NEEDED NOW!
volunteers needed: October 3-5 - RedSnook Tournament Call JoAnn at 239.403.4212
in the Auditorium to address the concerns and to act upon the suggestions of volunteers. All Conservancy volunteers are encouraged to attend this meeting. Judy Tryka In addition to sponsoring the annual “Welcome Back/Holiday Party,” the Connection provides volunteer leadership for most Conservancy functions, and this past year, adopted and sponsored the Dining for Wildlife fundraising event. Please connect with us! If you have any questions, concerns, and/or ideas to help us better serve the Conservancy - and the volunteers – please contact me, Judy Tryka, at 384-9224
Volunteer of the Month: February/March/April/May 2008
Ruth & Don Campbell Ruth and Don Campbell moved from Mexico City to Naples in 1996 following Don’s retirement as Vice-President for Proctor & Gamble. The Campbell’s began volunteering with the Conservancy that year -- Ruth at the Information Desk and Don as a boat captain. Now, 12 years later, the couple have volunteered a combined total of 2,980 hours, and noted, “We really value the fine friendships formed as a result of volunteering with the Conservancy.”
Ed Bransilver
Ed has given over 1,300 hours as a volunteer, putting his legal expertise to work for the Conservancy Policy Committee, serving on the Conservancy Board of Directors 2001-2007, and as a dock master for our electric boat rides. Ed retired as a partner from Sherman and Sterling law firm in 1995. Ed “believes in the organization” and has demonstrated that through his volunteer work.
Doug Finlay
While running on the Clam Pass boardwalk, Doug Finlay found a sick cormorant and called the Conservancy. “They came and picked up the bird, and I was so impressed that they cared so much about this bird,” he said. “I decided the Conservancy deserved my time as a volunteer.” Doug volunteers as a dock master for our electric boat program, at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and in numerous special events. Doug has donated more than 1,600 hours of service to the Conservancy.
Patti Hosker
Since she began working as a Conservancy volunteer in 2003, Patti Hosker has donated more than 735 hours of service to the organization. She works at Guest Information, as a member of the “Concierge Team,” delivering materials around town, and assists with special events. According to Volunteer Manager JoAnn Johansen, “Patti is one of those exceptional volunteers – always ready, willing and able to help!”
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C o n s e r v a n c y S t a f f a n d ass o c i a t e s
Conservancy Staff News New Staff Members: Christine Kruman
joins the Conservancy as Major and Planned Gifts Director. For several years, Christine was at the Naples 5/3 Bank and transferred to their Cincinnati, Ohio, bank in 2004 to serve as Vice President of Charitable Management Services and Manager of Planned Giving Services. She also served as Vice President for Development of Stark Community Foundation in Canton, OH. Kruman attended Kent State University at the Stark Campus in Canton, OH.
Anita Landry
is the new Executive Administrative Assistant to the President. She has extensive executive administrative support experience, including work at American Momentum Bank, Source Interlink, AmSouth Bank and State Street Global Advisors. She attended Quincy Junior College in Boston and is a graduate of Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School in Boston, MA.
Honoring the Dedicated staff of the Conservancy A special thank you to these staff members who have given so many years of dedicated service to the Conservancy. Staff over 20 years: Dave Addison Co-Director of Environmental Science
Carol Potter Bookkeeper
Kenneth Mooney
joins the Conservancy as Boat Captain of the “Good Fortune.” Ken was previously a pilot with Central American Airways in Louisville, KY. This summer, he will be responsible for taking summer camp children out to explore Rookery Bay.
Claudia Piotrowicz
Natural Resources Specialist, was recently with the Collier County Planning Department. Previously, she served with the Ministry of Environment in Brazil in a pilot program to protect the Brazilian rain forest. She also worked as an International Intern at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota. She received her MS in Urban Environmental Management from Wageningen Agricultural University in Wageningen, Holland, and her BA in Geography from Federal University of Maranhao in Sao Luis, Brazil.
Staff over ten years: Sharon Truluck Director of Human Resources
Joanna Fitzgerald Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Manager
Jim Pittman Good Fortune Coordinator
Kathy Worley Co-Director of Environmental Science
Nicole Ryan Governmental Relations Manager
NEW Conservation Associates: Environmental Science
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
Summer Camp
Sea Turtle Research
Gavin Richards, Clemson University, SC
Jessica Bender, Cornell University Hannah Clark, Christopher Newport Brenna Millard, Temple University Alissa Mundt, Bismarck State College Kevin Narum, Whitworth College Charles Warren, Virginia Tech
Kelly Coble, Florida Gulf Coast University Amanda Fabis, Juniata College, PA Martha Haglund, Grand Valley State Zachary Mauk, Hocking Technical College Maria Peterson, University of Wisconsin Sara (Angie) Tabone, University of Tampa
Jacqueline Depaz, University of Florida Lacey Babnik, Ohio Wesleyan University Shannon Langoria, University of Texas Andrea Naccarato, University of Florida
Nature Discovery Center Jordan Walker, Palm Beach Atlantic
Give your gift online! www.conservancy.org 1450 Merrihue Drive Naples, Florida 34102 www.conservancy.org Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life ... now and forever.
YOUR ANNUAL GIFT TO THE WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER WILL HELP SAVE ANIMALS IN NEED TODAY!
Homeward bound ... thanks to you!