close to 3 Athesuccessful “Saving Southwest
Summer 2011
D e d i c at e d
t o
a l l
Florida” Campaign
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More than 450 guests help raise over $600,000 at the 2011 Magic Under the Mangroves™
wins 10 Environmental at the 2011 legislative
session in Tallahassee.
Update t h o s e
w h o
c a r e
a b o u t
p r o t e c t i n g
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q u a l i t y
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l i f e .
Over the top!
The generous outpouring of support to the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign culminated on May 10 after $38.8 million was raised to benefit Southwest Florida’s water, land, wildlife and future. The money was immediately put to work. A new environmental education partnership with FGCU is in place thanks to Campaign endowment gifts. Gopher tortoises are crawling throughout the Christopher B. Smith Preserve, an area now protected from development. Construction continues on the von Arx Wildlife Clinic. In the new Shotwell-Wavering Filter Marsh, wading birds focus on the abundant juvenile snook teeming below. Read more inside about our continuing work, including the “outpouring of support” celebration, updates on the Nature Center and campus renovations, and how Campaign endowment funds support ongoing research, policy, education and wildlife care.
Nature Center closed until November 1. Use your membership card at Naples Zoo for FREE admission through October 31, 2011.
State Legislature: Now, It’s All Local Conservancy watchdog responsibility increases. The 2011 Florida legislature passed several troubling environmental bills impacting our quality of life in southwest Florida. Fundamentally, their actions have eliminated any state-wide oversight and pushed smart growth initiatives, environmental decisions and responsibilities down to the community level. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida plays an even more important role to provide environmental protection. Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy president, explained, “Many of these bills were passed under the guise that environmental controls are killing jobs and the economy. They reverse many of the bipartisan agreements that were put in place decades ago to protect Florida’s quality of life.” McElwaine commented that these efforts will require more attention from the community. “Strong grassroots participation is needed at all public hearings and local government meetings. This will require
more energy and resources than ever before. The Conservancy will intensify its watchdog efforts as well since we are one of the few cops on the beat for local checks and balances.” Other organizations, such as 1000 Friends of Florida, agree.
“”It has always been important to participate in the local planning process, but now it is more necessary than ever.” –Charles Pattison, President, 1000 Friends of Florida
McElwaine went on to explain some of the other environmental fallouts from the recent legislative decisions, listed on page 10. McElwaine concluded, “Overall, our environment is not at odds with our economy. In fact, a sustainable economic recovery for Florida absolutely depends on a healthy environment --- the foundation of our quality of life and tourism industry. We are viewing these decisions as a call to action to intensify efforts to preserve our paradise for future generations.” Legislative Impact Chart Page 10
C a p i ta l C a m pa i g n
directors
Chairman Dolph von Arx Vice Chairman Andrew D.W. Hill President & CEO Andrew McElwaine Treasurer George Gibson Secretary Sue Dalton BOARD of directors Dawn Allyn Edith G. Andrew Wilson G. Bradshaw Dennis C. Brown Jennifer Cheng Ted Corbin Paul Corddry John D. Fumagalli Eva Sugden Gomez John Hall Robert L. Heidrick Lois Kelley Kenneth Krier Colleen Kvetko
Maureen Lerner Lisa Merritt Tony Rodriguez Patsy Schroeder Lynne Shotwell Lynn Slabaugh Jeannie M. Smith Kermit Sutton Anne Drackett Thomas Tuck Tyler Nancy G. White Gene Windfeldt Ian Wright
Update is published by the Conservancy Marketing and Communications team. Marketing Director & Editor Barbara J. Wilson Graphic Designer Kate Kintz Photography Jim Bigelow Dennis Goodman We welcome comments and suggestions from readers and ideas for future issues. Please send feedback to info@conservancy.org or mail your input: Conservancy of Southwest Florida 1450 Merrihue Drive, Naples, FL 34102
Music to our ears!
Message from the President
Andrew McElwaine
Conservation and conservatism share the same language roots. But you wouldn’t know it from the last session of the legislature in Tallahassee. Far from being conservative, they behaved like radicals. One of the more troubling decisions ensured that few, if any, citizens can challenge environmental and growth management permits --- the burden of proof shifted onto the people making the challenge. By shifting the burden of proof onto the citizens, the legislature overturned 1,000 years of common law precedent. Since the earliest English common law, water and wildlife have been deemed common property held in trust for all citizens. To take those resources away required permission, often in the form of a government permit. But not in Florida anymore. The legislature has overturned that enduring principle and instead has given water and wildlife over to special interests and forced you to prove they are yours to enjoy.
Over 100 generous donors attended the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign closing event on May 10 at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida to celebrate exceeding the Campaign’s goal of $38.5 million. The $38.8 million total represents one of the largest campaigns in Collier County, and is also one of the largest environmental campaigns in Florida. Over 1,000 gifts will support enhanced Conservancy programs and endowment for poli-
cy, environmental science, a wildlife clinic veterinarian and environmental education. Additionally, funds will support the renovation and construction of new sustainable buildings and “green” 21-acre campus at the Conservancy with a vision to become the premier Nature Center in the entire southeastern U.S. Readers can “join in” the celebration by visiting www. conservancy.org/campaign.
Photos: AP Alexander
Conservancy Board of Directors Chairman Dolph von Arx and “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign Cabinet Co-Chairman Tuck Tyler poured water into a four-foot cylinder to represent the $38.8 million “outpouring of support” and to honor each of the 1,000 gifts received, ranging from $10 to over $1 million.
This is no time for hand-wringing. To accomplish conservation goals we need the support of the region’s County Commissioners. Your support will help the Conservancy work with them to ensure that balanced growth policies are implemented --- ones that integrate protection of our natural resources with economic vitality. We hope to continue making conservation fit conservative values for many years to come. With your support, we believe we can.
Over 100 guests watched as The Village School Chorale provided the perfect opening to the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign celebration on May 10 --- a song of “Mother Earth.” The Chorale brought tears to the eyes of guests during their closing song, “As You walk through this World.” Chorale directed by Linda Swears.
Four leaders joining Conservancy Board.
INFORMATION Conservancy Information 239.262.0304 Wildlife Clinic 239.262.CARE (2273) Membership Information 239.403.4207 Volunteer Information 239.403.4212
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Generous gifts to “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign total $38.8 million.
Satellite Sleuths
Wilson G. Bradshaw
Dennis C. Brown
Anne Drackett Thomas
Nancy G. White
Conservancy employees joined the Campaign Cabinet members on stage to thank them for their efforts, and to retire the “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign logo. The new logo reinforces the mission and symbolizes new horizons for the Conservancy and Southwest Florida.
Conservancy Discovery Center & Education Manager Troy Frensley discusses plans with Sharen and Gary Thomas.
The audience quietly chuckled as Wildlife Clinic Director Joanna Fitzgerald explained the follies of operating within the existing, cramped Clinic and how the wildlife team --- and the animals --- are so thankful to all Campaign donors.
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Development & Marketing
Development & Marketing
Fish Tales “Magic”: a Year of “Mosts” 2011
UNDER THE
Thanks! Thanks, Magic Sponsors! The generous support from community businesses helped put “Magic” over the top. Presenting Sponsors:
The Eagle Award generously sponsored by:
More than 450 guests help raise $600,000. The water-themed elegant tented setting at the Cap d’Antibes site at Pelican Bay provided the perfect backdrop for guests to raise over $600,000 to support the daily work of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. The main event was sponsored by Northern Trust and Gulf Bay. The 2011 Magic event represented a year of “mosts.” Records were achieved across all aspects of the event: • Total event proceeds. • Corporate sponsorship support. • Patron Packages sold. • Live and silent auction proceeds. • Fund-A-Need. • “Float the Boat” for the Good Fortune. 1.
The Conservancy announced the late Jack Briggs as its 2011 Eagle Award winner, recognizing the former Conservancy board member and his family for their commitment to conservation of the area’s natural resources. Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy of Southwest Florida president shared his appreciation to all involved. “So many people deserve the credit for this success: our sponsors, our patrons, our past Magic chairs, the Board, the Magic Committee and our Magic Chairwoman, Nancy White,” said McElwaine. Proceeds from the event will support the annual operating budget of the Conservancy for initiatives that protect our water, our land, our wildlife and our future in the region. 2.
Patron Party Sponsors:
RedSnook Tournament planning underway.
“Our Tournament slogan, ‘Clean Water/More Fish,’ speaks to the importance of the Conservancy work to the angling community.”
– Wayne Meland, RedSnook 2011 Co-Chair
fish research, both funded in part by the RedSnook Tournament. In addition, event co-chairs Wayne Meland and Lloyd Liggett recognized supporters of the 18th annual RedSnook Tournament, explained the importance of Conservancy work to support anglers, and provided an update on sponsorship opportunities.
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1. Future Magic Gala Chair Jeannie Smith, Current Magic Chair Nancy White, and former Magic Chairs Maureen Lerner and Sue Dalton. 2. Walter Ganzi and Sandra Cuyler at the live auction. 3. Stephen Briggs and Mary Jane Briggs accept the 2011 Conservancy Eagle Award for the late Jack Briggs from Geri Moll and Nancy White. 4. JRobert sets the mood before dinner.
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Dr. Jeff Schmid, Conservancy research manager, explains that invasive fish species, such as the Mayan cichlid, are also finding their way into the Shotwell -Wavering Filter Marsh. This invasive species threaten the snook habitat and cannot be released back into the waters; they are used as food for the animals recuperating at the Conservancy Wildlife Clinic.
RedSnook Slated for October 21-23
Register, sponsor or donate.
With registration underway for the 2011 RedSnook Catch and Release Charity Tournament, Conservancy of Southwest Florida invited interested guests to hear tales of the “RedSnook Success Story.” Conducted in the Penniman Family Gazebo, overlooking the Shotwell -Wavering Filter Marsh, the event highlighted the Conservancy water quality work and juvenile game
Supporting Sponsors: 3.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
The Shotwell-Wavering Filter Marsh was named for the multi-generational support provided by both families. Chip, Lynne, Henley and Nelly Shotwell were honored at the event. Lynne’s father, Elmer Wavering, was one of the original founders of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
“Our Tournament slogan, ‘Clean Water/More Fish,’ speaks to the importance of the Conservancy work to the angling community,” explained Meland. Kathy Worley, Conservancy codirector of environmental science, Dr. Jeff Schmid, Conservancy research manager, and Conservancy Director of Natural Resource Policy Jennifer Hecker reviewed the status and results of the water quality initiatives and juvenile game fish research underway. To further emphasize the significance of water quality, research and science at the Conservancy, McElwaine recognized the Shotwell family for their lead gift to fund the policy endowment, naming the filter marsh in their honor and recognizing Lynne Shotwell’s father, Elmer Wavering, for his role as a founding member of the Conservancy. Last year the tournament netted more than $75,000 for the Conservancy, and this year tournament chairs expect to exceed that.
The three-day tournament activities will begin with a kickoff party and auction on Oct. 21 at the Naples Yacht Club with competition scheduled on Oct. 22 and 23. The tournament concludes with an awards ceremony on Oct. 23 at Northern Trust. Events are for tournament participants and invited guests. Teams can register for the tournament at www.conservancy.org/redsnook. The event is presented by The Johnson Meland Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Supporting sponsors include Northern Trust, Naples Yacht Club, RGM Capital Partners and Comcast. Allen Systems Group is the official “Stars and Stripes” sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. For information and sponsor opportunities, call 239.403.4219. The Johnson Meland Group at
“Stars & Stripes” Sponsor
BETTY MACLEAN TRAVEL, Inc. “The Adventure Travel Company”
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Development & Marketing
Never too early
Plans begin for November 2012 Conservancy grand re-opening. With excitement building for the November 2012 grand re-opening of the “re-born” Conservancy Nature Center, the chairs of the “Renaissance Committee” invited guests to join them in planning the official grand opening activities. The April 4 luncheon celebration at Ridgway Bar & Grill was hosted by event chairs Sue Dalton, Maureen Lerner, Jeannie Smith and Nancy White. During the event, Conservancy President and CEO Andrew McElwaine and Conservancy Education and Nature Center Manager Troy Frensley spoke about how the new Nature Center will be one of the premier
“The new Conservancy Nature Center will give us the tools and resources to effectively engage the next generation of environmental leaders.”
– Troy Frensley
Nature Centers in the southeast. “The new Conservancy Nature Center will give us the tools and resources to effectively engage the next generation of environmental leaders,” says Frensley. The Conservancy Renaissance Committee will meet again in the fall to continue planning.
Judy Hushon, Linda Diaz and Karin Ciesla
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E n v i r o n m e n ta l s c i e n c e
Open Spaces!
Christopher B. Smith Preserve dedicated on February 10.
The gazebo on the new eightacre upland and scrub preserve habitat at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida provided the perfect backdrop for the dedication of the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. Located between the Conservancy Nature Center and Goodlette-Frank Road, the property purchase was made possible by a lead gift from Mr. and Mrs. Christopher B. Smith, the late Dorothy Blair and additional support from a number of generous
donors to the “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign. The Christopher B. Smith Preserve is home to native plants and wildlife, including gopher tortoises, a threatened species in Florida. In 2005, the Conservancy purchased eight acres of the Fleischmann property to protect the land from further development and to provide a more visible entrance into the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center.
The Riddles of Ridleys Charlotte Harbor is a rich feeding ground for the world’s most endangered sea turtle, the Kemp’s ridley. Conservancy of Southwest Florida Research Manager Dr. Jeff Schmid and Dr. Tony Tucker of Mote Marine Laboratory discovered that the estuary is a nursery area for young turtles. Both were surprised, however, when they captured an adultsize, presumably female Kemp’s ridley, on March 17. “Cora” had scars on her front flippers indicating she
had been previously tagged, but her capture history remains a mystery. After placing a satellite transmitter on Cora, she appears to be a transient in Pine Island Sound and has since moved northward to an area offshore Crystal River. While the researchers established the importance of inshore areas to the Kemp’s juveniles, Cora has shown that waters off west Florida provide vital foraging habitat for adult Kemp’s ridleys as well.
Satellite tag sponsor Mark Goebel with Dr. Jeff Schmid with Kemp’s ridley in Charlotte Harbor.
Information can be found at www.conservancy.org on the sea turtle protection page.
top 10 reasons
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Membership support helps us accomplish great things on your behalf to save our water, land and wildlife on a daily basis. More members mean greater clout to get things done with decision makers. Receive regular updates on the latest environmental news that impacts our quality of life. Advance notice of Conservancy of Southwest Florida events and special member-only events and pricing. FREE admission to Naples Zoo while Nature Center renovations continue through October 31, 2011.
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FREE or discounted admission to over 120 nature centers located throughout the country and Canada. An all-new Nature Center is well on its way – 21 acres of awe-inspiring experiences for kids and families to learn about the natural treasures of Southwest Florida. Members will be some of the first to experience a “Sneak Preview” of the Nature Center. Renewing members get to lock in memberships at today’s rates. FREE admission to Mote Marine Aquarium.
Membership information 239.403.4207
Thanks to funds provided by the Sea Turtle Grants Program, generous donors and gifts to “Fund A Need” at Magic Under the Mangroves™, the Conservancy has been able to expand its sea turtle research, protection and satellite tracking. Now both the Kemp’s ridley turtles in the Charlotte Harbor estuary and the longterm, repeat nesting loggerhead turtles on Keewaydin Island are tracked.
Learn More!
LEFT: Jeannie & Christopher Smith. Right: (L to R) Dick Rieman, Karen Rieman, Bob Rieman, Marilyn Laurion, Jim Laurion
to renew and upgrade your membership to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida TODAY!
Satellite Sleuths
Tortoise Time
Florida is home to the largest population of gopher tortoises within their range of the southeastern states. Habitat loss, fragmentation and poor quality habitat are the three primary threats to the survival of this species. A large population of native gopher tortoises is finding refuge within the eight acre upland and coastal scrub habitat in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve at the Conservancy. The extensive burrows of these terrestrial turtles also provide shelter for many species of animals and invertebrates. Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologists have been involved in a long term study to assess the health of the tortoise population within the Preserve and track the growth rates
of individual tortoises over time. This effort involves the recapture and measurement of previously marked tortoises and surveys for new additions into the population. Gopher tortoises have recently been sighted digging new burrows in areas of the preserve where Conservancy biologists and volunteer horticulturalists have “spruced up” the habitat --- removing exotic invasive vegetation and re-planting native grasses
and shrubs. Conservancy Biologist Ian Bartoszek concludes, “This is a positive sign that the resident tortoise population approves of the hard work within the Preserve. Sometimes that’s all the validation we need.”
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E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES Southwest Florida, Chesapeake Bay in the Hot Seat
Pollution standards trigger national debate. Even though harmful, toxic algae has broken out in Marco Island’s canals, in the Caloosahatchee River and around Cape Coral, getting the State of Florida and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to do anything about it remains a major challenge. These algal blooms are caused by over-fertilization, failing sewage and septic tanks and the mismanagement of Lake Okeechobee by state and federal officials.
Area waters have been closed due to health hazards from toxic algae, yet some are trying to lessen pollution standards.
As a result of separate settlement agreements reached with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and its partners, and with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the EPA has proposed new cleanup standards for both Florida and the Chesapeake. “Polluting industries” opposed to water quality policies have built a nationwide coalition to oppose the pollution limits, garnering support from some in Congress to prohibit any new water quality improvements. They’ve offered 8
so-called “riders” to federal appropriations bills to block EPA from moving forward in Florida and the Chesapeake. But with help from a number of allies, including the Conservancy, those amendments have thus far been defeated. However, amendments and legislation continue to be introduced. In response, two national coalitions are working together to keep Florida and the Chesapeake Bay moving forward. Other states are also plagued with nutrient pollution, and weakening or killing Florida’s
and/or the Chesapeake’s standards would undermine their effort. The two are the Great Waters Coalition representing the Everglades, Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay and other large water bodies, and the Clean Water Network, which is a coalition of regional and local groups working to improve the quality of water. The national Great Waters Coalition recently invited Conservancy Director of Natural Resource Policy Jennifer Hecker to join their lobby day and to permanently serve on the Coalition’s board of directors. “The Great Waters Coalition is the platform to set and lobby for the highest national water resource priorities” says Jennifer Hecker. “The opportunity to join forces with some of the leading environmental organizations in the nation will not only strengthen our position to more effective advocate for nutrient pollution limits, but also for other legislative initiatives to further protect the exceptional natural resources in Southwest Florida and the Everglades.”
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES Planning Collier’s Future
Conservancy watchdog efforts successfully open transparent process for Collier County’s Master Mobility Plan. Collier County’s Master Mobility Plan (MMP) will focus on ways to reduce the need to drive in the future. The Department of Energy awarded a grant to the County in 2009 to create a plan that will decrease traffic and congestion by reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT). After numerous requests by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and others, Collier County finally opened the Master Mobility Planning process to the public, once again indicating the importance of having a local environmental watchdog on the streets. The success of this plan relies on correctly addressing policy issues that affect everyone’s quality of life in the County. Yet, the County initially refused to allow the public to attend meetings between the County staff and consultants or between County staff and stakeholders until the Conservancy and other partners intervened.
“The secrecy or bunker mentality casts a shadow over what’s going on now or whatever planning strategy will evolve.” (L to R): Standing: Jennifer Hill, National Wildlife Federation; Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan (Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee), Great Waters Co-chair Theresa Pierno, National Parks Conservation Association; Seated: Adam Kolton, National Wildlife Federation; Jennifer Hecker, Conservancy of Southwest Florida
– Naples News editorial, April 12, 2011
According to Conservancy of Southwest Florida Director of Governmental Relations Nicole Johnson, “The public involvement in the start up of the MMP process
Community participation in Collier’s transportation planning can help provide ideas and better alternatives to reduce the need to drive to avoid Florida’s east coast maze of complex roadways.
was, quite frankly, insufficient. The County’s refusal to allow the public to attend meetings and provide input unnecessarily casts a negative shadow on the entire process.” Johnson continued, “We’re currently experiencing a lull in the explosive growth frenzy of several years ago, but the economy will stabilize and development will pick up. The growth potential within Southwest Florida is staggering. With over 250 square miles of available land for future development, roughly the size of Pinellas County, there is significant concern about properly addressing future road network and infrastructure needs to accommodate an estimated population of one million people --- and still protect our natural resources.” Andrew McElwaine, Conservancy
president, summarized how important it is for the community to get involved and provide feedback to the County. “The Conservancy will maintain our role as watchdog and advocate. However, residents need to participate in the process to ensure smart and sustainable growth policies are built into the plan. Action is needed today to protect our future quality of life.” Collier County has set up a website for the MMP at: http://betaapps.tindaleoliver.com/ CollierPI. Provide your suggestions for how the County can reduce driving in the future and create a better community at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ YL3C6BF.
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E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
Conservancy happenings
EYE on the ISSUES A Few Environmental Wins The 2011legislative session in Tallahassee could be considered a rocky one for the environment. However, because of our supporters input, financial assistance and strong advocacy efforts, we were able to stave off some “bad” bills from being passed this season.
Tidbits
Celebrating people, places, events of note. And the Winner Is… Environmental wins in this past session include: 1. Utilities cannot dump partially treated sewage into the ocean. 2. Septic tank sewage cannot be used as fertilizer. 3. Allowing inspection of millions of Florida’s aging septic tanks for leaks to protect springs and drinking water. 4. State and local agencies cannot ignore sewage, fertilizer and manure limits in the water. 5. It is not a crime to videotape Florida agriculture operations --- which often spew manure, pesticides and other pollutants into the public’s waterways.
Naples Daily News presented the “Readers Choice” Star award to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Upscale Resale Furniture as voted by its readers as the “Best Resale Store. This is third consecutive year for the award.
Family-Friendly For the 12th straight year, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida was recognized as a “Family Friendly Workplace” by Naples Alliance for Children.
Andrew McElwaine reinforced that these efforts demonstrate that advocacy can work. “We view these decisions as a call to intensify efforts to preserve our paradise for future generations.”
Fund-A-Need in Action
Primary Environmental Impacts of 2011 Florida Legislation
Thanks to donations from Conservancy members and a grant from the Marine Turtle Grants Program we have eight more satellite tags for the turtle tracking project that started in 2009. Conservancy Science Co-Director Dave Addison and his turtle crew have been able to retag one of four turtles previously tagged in 2009, “Emily.” She returned for the tenth time to the Keewaydin beach since we first saw her in 1988. Her movements over the coming months with tell us whether or not she will return to the Bahamas as she did after she finished nesting in 2009.
Previous Legislation
NEW Legislation
IMPACT
• Changes to local comprehensive growth plans occur two times per year.
• Changes can be implemented at any county commission meeting. No allowance for cross-county comprehensive planning.
• More ongoing focus and vigilance required as major changes could be introduced and adopted without much notice. Neighboring county plans could reduce the quality of life in adjacent counties.
• Developers responsible for funding the infrastructure associated with new development such as roads, sewers, schools and other services.
• Local governments can decide if the taxpayer should absorb some or all of the costs.
• Growth is no longer paying for growth and the taxpayer foots the bill.
• Developers need to provide a case for need and financial feasibility.
• Developers no longer need to present a case for financial feasibility or need.
• Could result in over-building and create diminished home values due to excess inventory.
• Developers and potential polluters must show their project will not contaminate air or water.
• The onus is on concerned citizens to prove that a project will cause environmental harm. Local citizens will have to invest the time and monetary resources to provide legal proof.
• Rural lands, the source of drinking water, will be easier to develop. Inhibits the public from defending its interest. In some cases access to the property will not be allowed to provide legal proof.
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“Emily” with replacement satelite tag.
Conservancy on TV
Andrew McElwaine, Heidi Colgate-Tamblyn and Michael Davis
SunTrust $10,000 Campaign Gift Conservancy of Southwest Florida President Andrew McElwaine receives $10,000 Campaign check from SunTrust Bank’s Heidi Colgate-Tamblyn, City President of Lee County, and Michael Davis, City President of Collier County. This gift, a donation to the Conservancy “Saving Southwest Florida” Campaign, will be used to help fund the “Call to Action Station” in the future Dalton Discovery Center.
Conservancy President Andrew McElwaine was featured in April on “Water: The Lifeblood of Southwest Florida” on WGCU-TV. McElwaine will also be featured in August on PBS in “This American Land” series regarding the Florida panther. Our work with water issues and the Florida panther were showcased. Additionally, the Education teams were frequent guests on FOX-4 “Morning Blend” for various events and activities.
A “Re-Born” Conservancy
Anchors Aweigh Thanks to the generosity of the Naples Harbour Yacht Club, the electric Duffy boats will have a nice, dry, temporary home at the Club’s excellent indoor facilities. The boats were removed from the lagoon so work can begin on the new Allyn Family Dock and Gazebo.
Marketing Excellence The Conservancy has won three Addy Awards and three Graphic Design USA American Inhouse Design Awards for excellence in graphic design and brand communication. Kudos to Conservancy Graphic Designer Kate Kintz for her superb eye for design and her talent to interpret brand positioning. This marks the fourth year for multiple awards.
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida introduced a new logo after retiring its Capital Campaign logo in May. The new logo keeps the rich history and heritage of the organization --- the eagle icon, the font and the Conservancy green color in the words and representing the growth management/land work of the Conservancy. The blue was added to represent the water focus of Conservancy work, while the yellow was added to represent a new dawn for the Conservancy and the hope of a bright future. The logo will be rolled out gradually as new materials and signage are developed, with an anticipated completion by November 2012. 11
E n v i r o n m e n t a l Ed u c a t i o n
W i l d l i f e r e h a b i l i tat i o n C l i n i c
Reality Check The fabrication of the exhibits in the future Dalton Discovery Center involves extensive collaboration with naturalists and scientists to create the most realistic habitats possible. For example, professional fabricators took gelatin molds of a fossilized coral reef to create the synthet-
Here We Grow Raising the roof on the von Arx Wildlife Clinic.
ic coral reef in the aquariums. Parts of the reef are removable to provide the marine animals with different scenery and a stimulating environment. This realistic sea habitat will help prepare the resident loggerhead sea turtle for eventual release.
Coming to a Theater Near You
Seven Time Did you know? Winner Thanks are in order to all the readers of the Naples Daily News who voted the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as the best “Nature Experience.” This makes seven consecutive awards for the Conservancy education team and the programming and experiences they have developed --- including Summer Camps.
Camp Goodies
Many thanks to Costco for donating gift cards to help purchase snacks for Conservancy Summer Campers.
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Kelly Sowers and Cheryl Latif accepting “Reader’s Choice” award.
As part of the Nature Center renovation project, the Conservancy will reuse rare cypress panels that were originally used as the siding on Naples pioneer Julius K. Fleischmann’s beachfront estate. In 1959, his 15-room house was cut into five sections and moved two miles to a five acre site that eventually became the Big Cypress Nature Center. After the Big Cypress Nature Center merged with the Collier County Conservancy (now Conservancy of Southwest Florida,) the wood was used as the paneling for the current Delnor auditorium on the 21-acre Naples Nature Center site.
1. Towels 2. Grocery and Gas Gift Cards 3. Unscented paper towels 4. Trash bags (15/30 gallon) 5. Bug spray 6. Large laundry baskets 7. Tape: duct and masking 8. Dish washing liquid 9. Powered laundry detergent 10. Wild bird seed
Patient Profiles Zhong Huang
Conceptual rendering of the Ocean Gallery in the future Dalton Discovery Center.
Wildlife Clinic Director Joanna Fitzgerald reminds everybody that simple, everyday items provide big benefits to treating native wildlife. The following items can be dropped off at the Wildlife Clinic seven days a week between 8 AM and 9 PM.
Work continues on the new 5,000 square foot von Arx Wildlife Clinic, which will eventually replace the outdated 1,700 square foot facility currently in operation. The new Clinic will help improve the quality of care provided to the “patients.” Future plans include areas where visitors can watch behind the scenes wildlife care via closed circuit television and an animal nursery with one-way glass.
Erik Pflueger
When the Warner Brothers film, “A Dolphin’s Tale” is released in September, Conservancy members may recognize remnants of the old Discovery Center. The Conservancy recycled old props and exhibits by donating them for the movie set. The movie will star Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, Harry Connick Jr. and “Winter,” the dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium that received an artificial flipper after losing hers in a crab trap out at sea. After filming, the movie props were given to the Clearwater Aquarium and numerous nature centers around the region to become a part of environmental exhibits reaching tens of thousands of people every year..
Checking your list
Bat Mobile?
Going Home
Oh Deer!
New Digs
Sky High
Over 700 Brazilian freetailed bats arrived after a palm frond where they were living fell to the ground during a recent June storm. By the next day volunteers returned 250 bats to the tree where their “parents” were roosting.
A bald eagle prepares to take flight as it is released after two months of treatment. The eagle was admitted to the Conservancy Wildlife Clinic after being found on the ground unable to fly since it had been shot with a pellet gun.
A white-tailed deer fawn rests after suffering burns to its ears, head and legs and damage to its left eye after being caught in a prescribed burn area in North Naples. The deer’s status is still touch and go, although Volunteer Vet Dr. Loreman checks on it daily to change bandages.
Conservancy volunteer Tim Thompson constructed the nest box for this male redbellied woodpecker after its nest cavity collapsed in a rotted tree. The babies had fallen to the ground, but after the nest box was completed, the papa soon returned with a meal for his family.
Conservancy volunteer Ian Orlikoff of Signature Tree Care climbed a Norfolk pine and secured an artificial nest basket to the top of the tree to re-nest an osprey chick with its parents. Within minutes, an adult osprey landed on the nest and joined the newly renested chick. 13
Planning is underway for 2012 Volunteer field trips.
Allyn Lagoon & Gazebo
Experience multimedia presentations, exciting daily programs, featured speakers, live animals and more.
Venture into “natural” southwest Florida ecosystems featuring interactive exhibits, 150 animals and a live loggerhead sea turtle. Observe baby animals in the nursery and study enhanced animal care from the new wildlife classroom. Discover the secrets of how the filter marsh cleans and purifies our water. Spot visiting wading birds and wildlife from the gazebo.
Our volunteer field trip committee is currently investigating venues and planning an exciting docket of field trips for the coming season. Watch for details to be announced in September.
The new “green” building headquarters for our staff and science labs to protect our quality of life in the region.
The new Conservancy of Southwest Florida logo was unveiled at the Capital Campaign Wrap-Up Event on May 10th and we’re sure you’ll find it to be a true representation of the Conservancy mission to protect our water, land, wildlife and future. New uniform shirts will be available at our Nature Store when we reopen in the fall. Your current shirts should be retired by Oct. 31, 2012 and you can donate them to the Wildlife Clinic.
View spectacular native species meandering through this upland preserve.
Going Somewhere?
FERGUSON Learning Laboratory
Dress for Success
DALTON Discovery Center
on our laurels. Read on to discover what’s keeping us busy! Enjoy your summer and please come back ready to participate and explore the wonders of our new and improved Nature Center as each area is opened. As always, thank you for all you do for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida!
Von Arx Wildlife Clinic
Many thanks to all the volunteers who so generously supported the Capital Campaign. Your support helped exceed the “Saving Southwest Florida” Capital Campaign goal --- $38.8 million was raised. With extensive renovations continuing, we are closed to the public until Nov. 1, but we are not sitting
shotwellWavering Filter Marsh
We’re gearing up for the anticipated 30 percent increase in guest traffic at our new and improved Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center. In order to meet the challenge, we need your help to locate and solicit more volunteers, especially full time residents, to staff the many volunteer positions year-round. Please refer them to our website www. Conservancy. org/volunteer to learn more.
A Sweet Season!
Sugden Gomez Environmental Planning Center
Are you Ready?
Ian Wright
Christopher B. Smith Preserve
Use your membership card at Naples Zoo for FREE admission.
JoAnn Johansen, Conservancy Intern & Volunteer Manager Ian M. Wright, Volunteer Connection President
JoAnn Johansen
Nature Center is CLOSED until Nov. 1, 2011. Enjoy FREE admission to the Naples Zoo through Oct. 31, 2011.
Nature Center closed until November 1.
Volunteer News
A new Nature Center coming your way.
Conservancy Volunteer CONNECTION meetings are not just for Volunteer Coordinators – all volunteers are invited and encouraged to attend. It’s a good place to learn about volunteer activities in other areas. Meetings are on the third Friday of the month and will resume in September.. Volunteer FORUM meetings begin again in November and details will be announced as soon as possible. The meetings include an educational component, recognition of the Volunteer of the Month, and a program presentation highlighting areas of interest and opportunities. Also, please refer to our website www. Conservancy.org often to keep up to date on Conservancy happenings and news.
Delve into handson learning about southwest Florida’s natural treasures.
Stay Informed
Search for wildlife and perhaps a manatee on a leisurely electric boat cruise or from a kayak.
Eaton Conservation Hall & JEANNIE MEG Smith Theater
VO l u n t e e r S e r v i c e s
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Volunteers of the MONTH March 2011 Mary Bolen Mary became a volunteer in November 2002 with the Jason Project and in the Discovery Center. She serves as a guide at Clam Pass, electric Boat Captain, a naturalist aboard the Good Fortune, and in the Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic. She has donated 1,136 hours.
April 2011 Barbara Phocas Barbara became a Guest Services volunteer in January 1997. She has also assisted with Summer Camp registration, participated in Bay Days cleanup and on our Environmental Policy team. Barbara has donated 2,065 hours.
May 2011 Philip Reader Phil began volunteering in June 2006 as a Boat Captain and has since added Critter Courier to his resume. He also volunteers for special events such as Magic Under the Mangroves and Earth Day, and has devoted countless hours establishing the Boat Program Training Manual for boat captains and dock masters. Phil has donated 1,049 hours. 16
NEW Conservation Interns: Environmental Education/Summer Camp Veronica Bien-Aime, Florida Southern College, Lakeland, FL Sara Ann Schramm, Loyola University, Chicago, IL Whitney Swain, Marietta College, Marietta, OH Environmental Policy Jeremy Frantz, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL Environmental Science/Sea Turtle Program Jamie Fisher, University of Hawaii, Hilo, HI Meghan Gahm, University of North Carolina, Wilmington, NC Bailey Rankine, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada Kimberly Riskas, UCSD, San Diego, CA Wildlife Rehabilitation Les Aron, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO Jessica Cote, Unity College, Unity, ME Kristen Eversole, Truman State University, Kirksville, MO
Thank you Supporters & Friends for helping us exceed our $38.5 million goal to “Save Southwest Florida� OUR WATER, LAND, WILDLIFE, FUTURE.
1450 Merrihue Dr. Naples, FL 34102 www.conservancy.org