INSIDE
Group inspires 2,200 enjoy 4 Minto 6 Over kids thru summer Grand Reopening
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10 Endangered wildlife needs
Update
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Federal protection
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Florida 2013 Legislative Session Wrap Up Better than it could have been.
It could have been worse. 2013 was an active legislative session for environmental and water-related bills. Wetlands, Everglades restoration, land acquisition and stormwater management were a few of the subjects addressed by Tallahassee in 2013. The political climate was rife with arguments that environmental protection is detrimental to Florida’s economy and should be dispensed with. But thanks to the Conservancy, other conservation organizations, and the participation of members like you, many of the worst proposals were sidelined and there were gains for Everglades restoration. Overall, however, it was at best a difficult year. House Bill 999: Bill included a ‘Christmas tree’ of environmental de-regulation. Thanks to opposition from many Floridians, including the Conservancy, language was removed that would have made it more difficult to protect our waters. The bill would have also prohibited local governments from establishing their own fertilizer regulations or ordinances similar to ones in Lee County and Naples. However, we were successful in removing that language. Nevertheless, several bad provisions stayed in the measure including limits on the amount of information required of developers and allowing development in some wetlands without a permit. The bill also granted two sugar producers a 30 year lease on land in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA,) which should have been part of Lake Okeechobee restoration and water storage.
House Bill 7065: Amended 1994 Everglades Forever Act (EFA) Legislators ratified a new $880 million Everglades Restoration Water Quality Plan. The measure extends the existing $25 per acre ad valorem tax on agricultural property within the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) from November 2014 – November 2026. Sugar growers will pay approximately $11 million in annual taxes until 2026 – but only in exchange for indemnity on paying anything more than that, regardless of their responsibility for Everglades pollution. That leaves taxpayers still on the hook for an estimated $16 billion to cover total Everglades restoration efforts.
Florida Forever Act Florida Forever and its predecessor, Preservation 2000, previously received as much as $300 million per year from the State for protection of millions of acres of natural spaces through direct purchase and conservation easements with willing sellers. For the past two years, State funding decreased to a total of only $16 million. However, in 2013, the legislature provided $70 million for state land acquisitions. $20 million is actually new money for military base buffering. The balance needs to be generated from “surplus” existing state-owned lands, an issue we will be monitoring closely. In summary, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida believes that the results of the 2013 Legislative Session have given us a ray of hope and that environmental protection may no longer be totally viewed as a “job killer.” Without your support, this forward progress would not have been a reality, and we thank you.
Dennis Goodman
Summer 2013
Message from our Board Chair Protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life ... now and forever.
directors
Chairman Lynn Slabaugh Vice Chairman Ken Krier Interim COO Robert Moher Treasurer George Gibson Secretary Jane Pearsall BOARD of Dennis C. Brown Joseph R. Catti Paul Corddry John D. Fumagalli Thomas R. Gibson Phil Gresh John Hall Lois Kelley Wayne Meland Lisa Merritt Jim Murray
directors Patsy Schroeder Lynne Shotwell Jeannie M. Smith Heidi Colgate-Tamblyn Anne Drackett Thomas Jay Tompkins Tucker Tyler Nancy G. White Van Williams Gene Windfeldt
Update is published by the Conservancy Marketing and Communications team. Marketing Director & Editor Barbara J. Wilson Graphic Designer Kate Kintz Photography Ralph Arwood 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:
I would like to update you on the changes happening at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. As you know, Andrew McElwaine, CEO and president of the Conservancy, has left to assume the role of CEO at the American Farmland Trust. This is a wonderLynn Slabaugh ful position for Andrew and we all wish him well. Andrew has been an excellent leader and has led us through almost eight years of growth. Our new Nature Center, our fiscal position and most importantly, our mission, have never been stronger. The Board of Directors has developed a transition team to carry us through this interim period until a new CEO is in place. Vice-Chair of the Board, Ken Krier, will act as the interim CEO. Current Vice-President of Development and Marketing, Rob Moher, will serve as interim COO. I am confident that the Conservancy will continue to run smoothly through this transition under Rob’s leadership. The Conservancy is blessed with an excellent team of professionals who will stay the course. The search process for the new CEO is already in place. This is a national search and we expect to have many well qualified candidates. Former Board Chair and current Board member, Tucker Tyler, is chairing the Search Committee. Mr. Tyler has successfully led two previous searches for the Conservancy. This period of change - with the untimely death of our Chairman, Bob Heidrick and now this great opportunity for Andrew - has come upon us quickly. Fortunately, each of these outstanding men has left us a legacy on which to build and grow. With your support and with the support of our dedicated volunteers, staff and Board, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida will move from strength to strength. I thank you for your continued dedication to our mission. Best, Lynn Slabaugh Conservancy of Southwest Florida Board Chair
Conservancy of Southwest Florida 1450 Merrihue Drive, Naples, FL 34102
INFORMATION Conservancy Information 239.262.0304 von Arx Wildlife Hospital 239.262.CARE (2273) Membership Information 239.403.4207 Volunteer Information 239.403.4212 www.conservancy.org
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Ken Krier Current Board ViceChair and interim CEO until the fall.
Rob Moher Interim COO
Tucker Tyler – Board member leading search committee for a new Conservancy president.
DEvelopment
Leadership Legacy When Conservancy of Southwest Florida celebrated its grand reopening, over 2,200 people visited and enjoyed all the new things to do and see. But, the Conservancy team had a heavy heart nonetheless. Board Chairman, Bob Heidrick, had passed away only days earlier. Bob had pushed hard to ensure everything would be ready for the reopening, and his dedication showed as each new building came on line. He and his wife, Raynelle, personally donated the Everglades Gallery in the new Dalton Discovery Center, and he was deeply involved in Conservancy work up until his last week. Bob was a highly successful businessman who specialized in strategic planning and succession plan-
ning for Fortune 500 corporations. He commissioned a new five year strategic plan – with the guidance to keep it short and set measurable goals. He created teams of board members and staff to hash out priorities, and gave the Board committees quick turnaround times to review and approve the drafts. The Board approved the strategic plan less than ten days after Bob passed. The Grand Reopening and the strategic plan were largely Bob’s doing. He played a major role in both milestones and would have been proud of what he had accomplished. We miss him terribly. However, we are fortunate that Board Vice-Chair, Lynn Slabaugh, has assumed the chair position and has established a strong plan to
Bob Heidrick
move forward. Bob left a rich legacy of leadership, a strong plan and guidance for the years ahead. Our hearts continue to go out to his wife Raynelle and their family.
Ordinary people show extraordinary generosity by leaving a legacy in their wills and estate plans. Leave a legacy and secure the future of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
Bequests Retirement Plans IRAs Life Insurance L i f e I n co m e G i f t s C h a r i t a bl e Tr u s t s C h a r i t a bl e G i f t A n n u i t i e s
A
tribute that
will last.
E a g l e
S ociet y
For more information contact Christine Kruman at 239.403.4206 or christinek@conservancy.org. Visit www.conservancy.org/giftplan
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EVENTS
Grand Reopening Weekend
Presented by
The Grand Reopening series of celebrations kicked off on Thursday, April 18 with about 300 friends and supporters of the Conservancy. The evening included the preview of the new film produced by Elam Stoltzfus, “Story of the Conservancy”. Music and a variety of food and refreshments. The Merrihue Family was the presenting sponsor. Supporting sponsors included Finemark Bank & Trust, Russell’s Clambakes, Naples Yacht Club, CaterMasters, Ridgway Bar & Grill, Service by Jordan Catering and Wynn’s Catering.
Top: Guests prepare to view new Conservancy film in Eaton Conservation Hall/Jeannie Meg Smith Theater. Bottom: Ray Slabaugh, Christine Kruman and Conservancy Board Chair Lynn Slabaugh.
Presenting sponsor:
The Merrihue Family, in memory of Willard Merrihue Supporting sponsors:
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Over 2,200 enjoyed the renovated Conservancy Nature Center. Over 2,200 people helped celebrate the official reopening of the new 21-acre Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center during a two-day Grand Reopening Weekend Festival on April 20-21. The Festival was sponsored by Wells Fargo. Visitors and members enjoyed special exhibits, live entertainment, educational programs and speakers, including renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle from National Geographic who served as Saturday’s keynote speaker. Named as Time Magazine’s first “Hero for the Planet” and a “Living Legend” by the Library of Congress, Earle shared the depths of her experiences as an oceanographer and explorer to attendees inside the new Eaton Conservation Hall/ Jeannie Meg Smith Theater. The $20 million in sustainable renovations at Conservancy of Southwest Florida was funded as a part of the $38.8 million “Saving Southwest Florida” campaign. The project included a new entrance, four additional acres of nature preserves, new filter marshes, three new buildings and three renovated buildings. The balance of Campaign funds support policy initiatives, environmental education programs, environmental science and native wildlife rehabilitation. The Campaign also provided increased endowment funding, including support for an environmental education partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University.
Wells Fargo helped with children’s face painting.
Young festival guest with Dr. Sylvia Earle.
Supporting sponsors
Development
What’s New at the Nature Center?
Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center guest experiences are expanding! “Wildlife Workshop”
Self-guided and hands-on activities and a wildlife craft for younger visitors highlight wildlife rehab and the issues facing Florida’s wildlife. Sapakie Family Classroom adjacent to von Arx Wildlife Hospital.
Wayne A. Meland Wealth Management
Clean Water! More Fish! November 1-3, 2013
Movies and Films
Filmed lectures and movies are available in Eaton Conservation Hall/Jeannie Meg Smith Theater. Includes the “Conservancy Story” film by Elam Stoltzfus, generously sponsored by the Lester J. and Delora Norris Foundation.
New Bradley Nature Store Products
In addition to the best nature-inspired book collection in the area, the store carries a line of products from local award-winning photographer Dennis Goodman and a new line of eco-friendly toys geared toward ages 12 months to seven years. All natural material, water based paint and strict quality and safety standards make these toys a great choice. Members enjoy a ten percent discount on all merchandise. to It’s me upg o la not mb ra te er de to sh yo ip ur lev el.
Conservancy Club Membership Enjoy a year of exclusive insider access events and free admission. • Advanced boat ride reservations • Access to special programs • Behind-the-scenes tours • Conservancy Club receptions • Complimentary tickets to events • Recognition in Annual Report Conservancy Club members provide critical financial support for our environmental education, policy, science and wildlife initiatives. Visit conservancy.org/conservancyclub or call Jack Hannings at 239.403.4207
2013 RedSnook Co-Chairmen, Wayne Meland and Rhett Robicheaux, hosted a RedSnook Pre-Event gathering with the 2013 RedSnook Committee, anglers, tournament guides and supporters of the RedSnook Catch and Release Charity Tournament on May 30. Conservancy Director of Natural Resource Policy Jennifer Hecker spoke with the group about the current state of our water quality and the pressures we face to keep our water clean – all of which are partially supported by the funds raised by the Tournament. Last year’s Tournament generated over $125,000. The event kicks off with live auction and full dinner on November 1, followed by two days of intense competition and an award ceremony at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center. The Tournament’s presenting sponsor is Wayne A. Meland at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Potential sponsors and team registrants can contact NikkieD@conservancy.org or 239.403.4219 to learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits. conservancy.org/redsnook.
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Development
Magnificent Mangroves Mangrove restoration imperative to quality of life.
Summer Fun Minto Group inspires kids through camp. This summer, more than 260 kids grades K-8 are spending their summer at the recently renovated Conservancy Nature Center to become future conservationists. AquaCamp, Land Lubbers and Wild Discoveries are the three 2013 Summer Camp experiences offered. Each is age-appropriate and offers hands-on, engaging activities for campers – both fun and educational! Minto Communities helped fund the Conservancy Summer Camp and hopes that the experience inspires the next generation of environmental advocates. “Environmental sensitivity and awareness are important concepts to introduce to children,” said Bill Bullock, vice-president of Minto Communities. “Here at Minto, we are strong proponents of sustainability and the environment. When the opportunity to sponsor Conservancy Summer Camp arose, we felt a natural alignment for Minto to participate with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Our company motto is ‘Be Inspired’ and that statement applies to our employees, homeowners and others we interact with. We would like the children who attend the Summer Camps to ‘Be Inspired’ by the environment.” Supported by
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Often referred to as ‘nature’s nurseries,’ mangrove systems provide habitat and shelter for a variety of animals and are vital to supporting healthy seafood and sportfish populations. They provide protection to Florida’s coastlines during storms and serve as an indicator of the health of coastal waterways - a top priority to the health of Florida’s economy. Development over the years in the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve near Healthy mangrove populations provide shelter for Marco Island and Goodland has about 80 percent of marine life found in the Gulf of altered how water flows in and Mexico. out of the area, effectively suf“As a resident of the Naples area focating the mangrove forest. for more than 30 years, my father had Thanks to support from the Bowen Family Foundation, additional support a passion for fishing. He toured my from a national private foundation and children around by boat and taught us federal grants, the Conservancy and a about the importance of the manteam of mangrove restoration experts groves and the work of the Conservancy. It’s our hope that my father’s are restoring tidal flow to improve continued legacy, through this grant, mangrove regrowth in the area. will inspire others to think about their Hazel Bowen, of the Bowen Family Foundation, says her late father’s love own legacy and how they can make of fishing and the beauty of the south- a difference protecting Southwest Florida.” west Florida coast led to the Founda“We cannot stress enough the imtion’s support. portance of the health of Southwest Florida’s mangroves and our gratitude to the Bowen Family and others who support this important work.” said interim Conservancy Chief Operating Officer Rob Moher.
Goodland mangrove system: Conservancy working to restore water flow to restore dying mangroves near Goodland.
To join us in this most important effort, contact Conservancy of Southwest Florida at 239-262-0304 or visit www.conservancy.org.
E n v i r o n m e n ta l s c i e n c e
What a Catch
Study of invasive species can protect our estuaries. Conservancy Research Manager Dr. Jeffrey Schmid and Copely Smoak, a long-time Conservancy member and recent volunteer, are investigating the ecology and feeding habits of the Mayan cichlid in southwest Florida tidal creeks. The Mayan cichlid is native to Central America, from southeast Mexico to Nicaragua, and has become established in south Florida. This freshwater species tolerates a wide range of salinities, allowing it to invade brackish estuarine habitats. The diet of the Mayan cichlid has been described in their native habitat and freshwater habitat in southern Florida, but information is lacking on food items consumed in nonnative estuarine habitats.
The Mayan cichlid is a food fish in its native range and has gained popularity as a sportfish in southern Florida, nicknamed “atomic sunfish” for its vivid coloration and fighting ability. “Cope is the best Mayan cichlid fisherman this side of the Yucatan,” states Schmid. “His fishing prowess has resulted in the collection of over 450 stomach samples.” Preliminary examination of the samples confirms they are omnivorous, feeding primarily on organic material and mussels with crabs, snails, and aquatic insects as secondary items. Other research activities include providing fin clippings for a genetic study and collecting ear bones for age and growth estimation.
Gopher Tortoise Round Up Conservancy biologists are back in action rounding up gopher tortoises that reside in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. Each tortoise is marked, weighed and measured to help track their growth rates. This effort is a follow-up to previous data collection, and together will hopefully provide a picture as to how the population is faring over the years. The entire process is done as efficiently as possible so that each tortoise is returned quickly and safely to the spot where they were found. Gopher tortoises are burrow-digging animals that live in upland scrub habitats. Their burrows provide homes for not only themselves but numerous other species of animals and invertebrates as well. Sadly, this important species is now categorized as a Threatened Species. Conservancy Biologist Melinda Schuman said, “It is really gratifying to get reacquainted with old friends
that you haven’t seen for a few years and to know they are still doing well”. Please take a few minutes out of your day to enjoy the beautiful Christopher B. Smith Preserve from the prime perch of the bridge gazebo on Smith Preserve Way. You just might be lucky enough to spot a tortoise too!
Gopher tortoise meandering through Christopher B. Smith Preserve at Conservancy Nature Center. This important species is now categorized as a Threatened Species in Florida.
Copely Smoak shows off his great Mayan cichlid catch.
Generations of Support From the late Lester Norris, who helped found the Conservancy, to his greatgreat-great granddaughter Emily Wheeler and Dave Addison. Emily, who is now attending Summer Camp, the Norris family has been involved with the Conservancy for five generations. Lester’s daughter, Lavern Norris Gaynor, sponsored a sea turtle satellite tag and named it “Emily” in honor of her great-great niece. Emily took a short break from Conservancy Summer Camp to meet Dave Addison, who has led the sea turtle program since 1981. Emily is holding turtle “Emily’s” tag. 7
E n v i r o n m e n ta l e d u c at i o n
Creating Future Environmental Leaders
Teaching science, technology, engineering and math through nature. Regional educators attended a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) summer workshop at the Ferguson Learning Lab at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center in June to help enhance their teaching skills. The workshops were designed and executed by Florida Gulf Coast University’s Whitaker Center for STEM Education and Conservancy of Southwest Florida staff. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology in an immersive natural setting, the educators developed skills to create fun and engaging STEM curricula focusing on the southwest Florida environment. The workshop was the kick-off to an overall “STEM Institute” which the Conservancy will launch in the near future. Conservancy Education Manager David Webb explained, “The STEM Institute consists of three programs targeting K-12 students and teachers. The program includes field trips, high school researchfocused projects and ongoing STEM Teacher Workshops.” Webb continued, “The Conservancy Nature Center provides a real-world learning
Using technology to understand nature.
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Taking Nature to the Classroom Immersive experiences are a large part of STEM.
opportunity for students. The Ferguson Learning Lab provides the latest scientific technology, complemented by the Nature Center serving as an outdoor lab. For example, students can collect water samples at the Shotwell-Wavering Filter Marsh, and then conduct research in the Ferguson Learning Lab to measure how effectively the marsh reduces pollution. All this enhances the understanding of science, technology, engineering and math. The program was made possible through a lead grant from the AT&T Foundation along with other partners and sponsors.
Over 8,000 students reached.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida environmental education team members reached 8,034 students through “Learning Adventures” school outreach and field trip programs during the 2012-2013 school year. The 18 “Learning Adventures” school outreach programs focus on a variety of southwest Florida’s natural treasures related to water, land and wildlife. Each program offers inquirybased, hands-on activities, individualized for age-level, from pre-K up, including adult programming. “Learning Adventures” is made possible thanks to support from the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, Arthrex, the Kara Foundation, PNC Bank, the Francis Pew Hayes Foundation, and Subaru which donated use of a brand-new Subaru Outlook to travel to schools. “Conservancy of Southwest Florida offers the largest environmental education program in southwest Florida,” said Conservancy Education Manager David Webb. “The programs engage people of all ages to better understand our environment and how we can help protect our natural treasures.” For more information visit www.conservancy.org/outreach
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES Saving Regional Water Supplies
Not in Our Backyard Lee County Commission denies mine rezone. In May, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners denied a petition by Florida Farms Development (FFD) to rezone 4,652 acres of agricultural land to industrial use. FFD wants to use the land as a future limerock mine. The land is located within Lee County’s Density Reduction/ Groundwater Resource area (DR/GR) - 82,000 acres of protected land that safeguards underground water supplies and prevents over-development. The area also provides about 70 percent of Lee’s drinking water supply. Historically, mining could be allowed throughout the DR/GR, if deemed compatible. However, in recent years, the importance of the area for future water supply, water quality within our estuaries (including Estero Bay) and as habitat for listed species, led the County to reevaluate where mining was most compatible. The result was the creation of the “Future Limerock Mining Overlay.” This overlay directs mining activity to the traditional mining area in
the Alico Road industrial corridor. The FFD site, due to the potential for negative impacts to residential communities, preserved lands and natural resources, is not within the mining overlay. Conservancy of Southwest Florida Environmental Policy Specialist Jeremy Frantz stated, “In addition to its location outside of the mining overlay, mining on the FFD site would have impacted primary panther habitat and wetlands used for water storage and wood stork foraging.” Franz continued, “The mine would have also increased traffic on Corkscrew Road by adding 2,548 trips daily. Coupled with the property’s impact on underground water supplies, its adjacency to the CREW lands and Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, provided ample reasons to deny this rezone.” “The Conservancy is pleased that the Lee County Commissioners denied the mine to protect natural resources, the adjacent residential neighborhoods and the DR/GR,” concluded Franz.
The City of Bonita Springs is undertaking a planning process for the northern quadrant of its approximately 5,000 acre Density Reduction Groundwater Resource area (DR/GR.) The area is adjacent to Lee County’s DR/GR, so it’s an opportunity for both parties to collaborate on restoration projects that provide regional benefit. Conservancy Director of Governmental Relations Nicole Johnson stated, “The City’s approach to plan for use in the northern quadrant of the DR/GR in its entirety avoids addressing development on a piecemeal basis. This positive approach can improve system-wide issues, such as restoration of flow ways and consolidation of development in appropriate locations.”
Conservancy Recommendations : The City of Bonita consultants have solicited input from various sources, including the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Our suggestions focused on creating the appropriate balance among future development, environmental restoration and improved water quality. • Allow Bonita’s DR/GR property owners to purchase Transferrable Development Rights (TDRs) from the Lee County DR/ GR to increase density so development occurs in less environmentally sensitive areas. • Provide incentives for restoration on public/private lands to facilitate hydrologic connectivity. • Create filter marshes and restore flow ways to improve water quality. • Allow appropriate development within identified limits and ensure an adequate mix of uses where increased density is appropriate. 9
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES Did you know? The Peace River Watershed provides drinking water for hundreds of thousands of Floridians. The EPA and Congress have designated the Watershed, and the downstream Charlotte Harbor estuary, as a “Priority Watershed,” an “Aquatic Resource of National Importance” and an “estuary of national significance.” It is home to endangered and threatened wildlife and fish and depends on freshwater flows from the Peace River. Peaceful Horse Ranch abuts the Peace River, a large source of drinking water for Floridians.
New Wild Spaces
Preservation of Peaceful Horse Ranch provides human and wildlife benefits. The Peaceful Horse Ranch is a 5,000-acre property on the border of Charlotte, Sarasota and Desoto counties. It has seven and one-half miles of the Peace River on one side of it and five and one-half miles of Horse Creek on the other, and is largely made up of wetlands and wildlife habitat. As this publication went to press, the Conservancy was on the verge of acquiring the site and turning it over to state and federal authorities as a public preserve. Preserving the ranch would help protect the water quality of the Peace River and its creeks, as these waters flow into the Charlotte Harbor estuary - to protect fish and other wildlife associated with the floodplains, rivers, creeks and
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estuary. It will also provide for conservation-based recreational opportunities. Preservation also helps establish links with other conservation areas, protects wildlife, and preserves a natural flood plain. The land can help create a trail corridor from the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (SWFWMD) Deep Creek area north along the river, then to Myakka State Park. Development would also be minimized from buffers at the Peace River. Under a settlement agreement reached between Sierra Club and Mosaic Corporation over phosphate pollution, Mosaic agreed to convey the ranch to the State Department of Environmental Protection
as a state park. The land had been designated a high priority acquisition target by the Crist Administration. But the Scott Administration rejected the site. Under the terms of the settlement, the Conservancy then receives the property and is required to conserve it. Thanks to the cooperation of the Ding Darling Wildlife Society, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, and the Sierra Club, the Conservancy is negotiating a very promising set of partnerships to preserve the ranch in perpetuity. The Conservancy expects to close on the ranch, and turn it over to state and federal authorities, later in the summer of 2013.
E n v i r o n m e n ta l p o l i c y
EYE on the ISSUES BP Oil Spill Money Pouring In
Opportunity to improve local waterways. Millions of dollars of BP oil spill money are pouring into the Gulf states, and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is making sure that southwest Florida gets its fair share. The Conservancy is working with local county and city elected leaders, providing information and recommendations on how local governments can best position themselves to receive maximum funding. The funds will be directed for local environmental restoration projects which improve the resiliency and water quality of the Gulf of Mexico. The Conservancy convinced Collier County to reconsider its previous position of declining to sit on a “Gulf Consortium.” The County has now joined the Consortium and appointed Commissioner Henning as the representative. The County has also formed a Committee to oversee the funds and Conservancy Director of Natural Resource Policy Jennifer Hecker sits as an appointed member. The Committee will identify environmental restoration projects as part of a comprehensive plan for Collier County. “While our beaches did not receive oil, southwest Florida’s wetlands and rivers that flow to the Gulf make our region an appropri-
“While our beaches did not receive oil, Southwest Florida’s wetlands and rivers that flow to the Gulf make our region an appropriate recipient of BP Oil Spill monies”
– Jeremy Frantz, Conservancy Environmental Policy Specialist
ate recipient of BP Oil Spill monies,” said Environmental Policy Specialist, Jeremy Frantz. He continued, “We are working to bring funding for environmental restoration in our region that will improve the health of the Gulf and strengthen our regional economy.”
Peaceful Horse Ranch Protection In 2012, Sierra Club Florida and other environmental groups entered into a settlement to resolve their Federal Court lawsuit challenging Mosaic’s South Fort Meade Extension (SFM extension) phosphate mine. The 2010 lawsuit filed charged that the Army Corps of Engineers permit was in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the Clean Water Act. In addition to the Peaceful Ranch purchase, other environmental wins included: • $2 million for startup and initial maintenance costs. • Mining set back from the Peace River, creating additional buffers of approximately 42 acres. • Seven bayhead wetlands and buffers, over 70 acres, will be removed from the mine plan and preserved in a Conservation Easement. (Bayheads are very difficult, if not impossible to restore or recreate.) • Some 400 acres of land between the southwest mine border and the Peace River will be placed into Conservation Easement - additional protection for the river. • An area bordering the west side of the Peace River will be placed into Conservation Easement. Two onsite streams will be enhanced with wetland treatment areas. • An independent panel will review Mosaic’s long-term water monitoring and restoration programs and make recommendations as required. 11
Happenings
Tidbits
Celebrating people, places, events of note. Labor of Love
Never Too Young
A hard-to-find, native cowhorn “cigar” orchid was brought back from the brink thanks to the efforts of Conservancy Volunteers Dot Dronkers and John Ianetta, working with Matthew Jessen from the Maintenance Department. Now three years later, after lots of TLC, the orchid, located in a gumbo limbo tree outside the Dalton Discovery Center, finally bloomed, and a family of mourning doves built a nest nearby.
Luke Peterson photographed with his two younger brothers.
Luke Peterson, age nine, and his family are members of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. This is the third year Luke has asked his friends to send a contribution to the Conservancy instead of giving him a birthday gift. His actions show that it’s never too early to get involved in protecting our paradise.
Top 50 Kim Ciccarelli Kantor, a member of the Conservancy Planned Giving Committee, was recognized as one of the top 50 (of the Top 100) Women Financial Advisors in the June, 2013 of Barron’s magazine. The magazine states that these financial advisors consistently deliver sharp insights and excellent service. The ranking reflects the volume of assets overseen by the advisors and their teams, revenues generated for the firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices. Kim Ciccarelli Kantor
Greenway
Top Notch
After decades of planning, joint access to the Zoo, Conservancy Nature Center and the Gordon River Greenway came closer to reality in May at the Greenway groundbreaking ceremony. The Greenway will highlight the natural beauty along the Gordon River, with native plants, mangroves, wildlife viewing stations and interpretive signage along paved pathways.
Conservancy Nature Center has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade honors hospitality excellence, and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, worldwide. Only the top-performing ten percent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award. To qualify for a Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months. Thanks to all the volunteers and staff for delivering a superb guest and member experience!
News from the ZOO
Along with favorite animals like monkeys and giraffes, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens offers you a peek at some of the planet’s rarely seen species like their new Malayan tigers. These three-year old brothers arrived a few months ago. There are only about 50 in the nation and less than 500 of this endangered species in the wild. Also new is their purebred South African lioness that was introduced to their male lion on Valentine’s Day earlier this year. You’ll also find two of only 15 striped hyenas in the country and the unusual fosas from Madagascar and the popular African honey badgers. Best of all, while northern zoos typically reduce programs during the off season, our local Zoo offers their full day of Meet the Keeper Series, Alligator Bay Feedings, Safari Canyon shows, Jungle Larry™ and Safari Jane’s™ Snakes Alive, and Primate Expedition Cruises. Go wild this summer!
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HapPenings
Tidbits
Celebrating people, places, events of note. Champion Again Conservancy of Southwest Florida has once again won the top “Choice” award from Naples Daily News for best Nature/Education experience. This is the eighth year the Conservancy has won a “Champion” top award. Conservancy environmental education programs include Summer Camps, school outreach programs, Nature Center programs and much more. Thanks to all who voted for us!
Web “Master” Conservancy Volunteer Susan Snyder developed an informative webbased field guide about the unique natural treasures found in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. You can find a link to it at conservancy.org: click on “Plan Your Visit” under “Nature Center” and scroll down to the Christopher B. Smith Preserve information to the “Learn More” button.
Summertime Volunteers Carole Talkowski, vice-president of the Conservancy Volunteer Connection, has led a team of Conservancy staff and volunteers on a crusade to recruit summer volunteers, primarily targeting students and teachers. Carole and former Conservancy President Andrew McElwaine appeared on WINK-TV morning news to help spread the word.
WINK-TV news anchor Rob Spicker, Andrew McElwaine and Carole Talkowski.
Well Done Being published in science reflects innovative research work shared with fellow peers in the science field. Two Dr. Jeff Schmid Conservancy environmental science team members, Dr. Jeff Schmid and David Shindle, were recently published. Dr. Schmid for research with loggerhead sea turtles which he co-authored with 14 other colleagues. The collaborative effort, published in Marine Biology, combined recapture data from multiple in-water sea turtle tagging studies, monitoring growth rates of loggerheads in the northwestern Atlantic Ocean to ultimately improve population assessments for this threatened species. Shindle’s work, which was coauthored with scientists from the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, North Carolina State University, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, was published in the Journal of Applied Ecology. The paper was the product of a scientific review of the remote camera data that David Shindle Shindle collected on Florida panthers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Shindle and co-authors developed a new camera technique for assessing panther recovery efforts that could be used to monitor other large carnivore populations. 13
W i l d l i f e h o s p i ta l
Temptation to Feed Wildlife Kathy Postelle
“Patient” Profiles
Provide habitat – not handouts.
Many people enjoy feeding wildlife because they believe they are helping the animals survive. While seeing wild animals up close can be enjoyable, feeding them nearly always leads to problems for both the animals and humans. Here are some of the consequences. 1. Young wild animals that are taught to depend on a human-provided food source may not fully develop essential foraging skills and may struggle to survive in the absence of the artificial food source. 2. Wild animals fed by humans commonly lose their fear of people. An instinctive wariness of people is important to a wild animal’s survival. Once they are used to people, they are susceptible to others who may want to harm them.
Snuggle Bunnies
Five Eastern cottontail rabbits snuggle and groom each other after being fed at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy. Only three are related, but we put all five of them together since it is best to raise them with the same species.
3. The food humans usually feed to wild animals is not nutritionally complete and can cause serious health problems for the animals, especially the young ones still developing. 4. Providing food to wildlife may attract many more wild animals to the area that are not normally found there. Neighbors of the people who have been feeding wild animals can perceive the wild animals as an incredible nuisance and want to kill or remove them.
Two young mourning doves cuddle and rest after being fed and cleaned. The two doves are unrelated, yet both came to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital under the same circumstances - each of their nests was destroyed during landscaping activities.
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The best thing you can do to care for the wild animals on your property is to give them habitat, not handouts. Use native plants and trees to provide natural sources of food and shelter. If you are looking for a positive way to get closer to wild animals, consider volunteering at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital where thousands of injured and orphaned animals are in need of a little human help. Visit conservancy.org/ volunteer or call 239-403-4212.
Please donate today:
Robin Rhoads
Birds of the Feather
The von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida treats over 3,300 injured, orphaned or sick animals each year. There is no charge to the public for animals that are admitted, and no animal arrives with health insurance. Treating these animals is a great expense.
• Antibiotics administered by a technician
$125
• Radiology for one patient
$135
• Average patient’s treatment
$300
• Cost of raising a bird from nestling to release
$350
• Cost to feed a pelican for four weeks
$600
www.conservancy.org/helpwildlife
Volunteer services
Volunteer News
JoAnn Johansen
Volunteers of the Month April 2013 Robert Schultheis
JoAnn Johansen, Conservancy Intern & Volunteer Manager Jim Murray Volunteer Connection President
Jim Murray
Connection Annual Meeting
Volunteer TIDBITS
The Volunteer CONNECTION is the volunteers’ association, and the coordinators are the voting members of the CONNECTION Board of Directors. We would like to thank Ian Wright for his leadership as president over the past three years. The 2013 officers are: Jim Murray, president; Carole Talkowski, vice president; Sue Smith, secretary; Tina Skorstad, treasurer and Ian Wright, immediate past president. Thank you also to all the Coordinators and Volunteers for their enthusiastic efforts to show our new Nature Center in the best light and give our visitors an outstanding guest experience.
Bob had visited the Conservancy many times, liked what he saw and thought he’d try to help and help he did! He joined our team of exceptional volunteers in May 2009 beginning in wildlife rehabilitation and as a critter courier where he continues to serve. In 2011 he assumed the position of Briggs Boardwalk Coordinator and became a Docent in the Dalton Discovery Center in 2012.
May 2013 Marci Hughes Art Ritas & Susan CalkinsRitas have been volunteering for Hodges University’s Center for Life Long Learning (CLL) for 10 years. Susan and Art serve on the advisory board for the unique member-run learning community with 300 members. Susan has taught classes on the Maya, tourism, Margaret Mead, and organized and facilitated a panel on Big Cypress – the Western Everglades. Art has taught reading/writing classes, conducted book discussions, and for ten years facilitated a creative writing workshop. Together they taught a class, “Immigration: Swedes and Greeks come to the Windy City,” tracing the landing and settlement of their two ancestor groups to Chicago.
Clam Pass Guide George Fogg and his wife were recognized for their many contributions to FGCU during a luncheon on March 18th in the “Fogg Suite” located in the Cohen Center with family, friends and many school officials present. University President Dr. Wilson G. Bradshaw praised the Foggs for their support of the school.
CALENDAR: Volunteer FORUM: Resumes in November. Volunteer CONNECTION: 3rd Friday of the month.
Marci became a volunteer in our Upscale Resale Furniture & More store in 2008. She credits her friends Ian and Sharon Wright for introducing her to the Conservancy. “When Ian tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I would like to volunteer at the Upscale store, how could I say no to my friends or the Conservancy,”said Marci. In addition to volunteering at the store, she also participates in many special events such as the RedSnook Kick-off and Magic Under the Mangroves. 15
Help Sea turtles survive 1450 Merrihue Dr. Naples, FL 34102 www.conservancy.org
Donate today.
www.conservancy.org/seaturtles
NEW Interns:
$15 OFF
any purchase of $100 or more of gently used or new furniture and accessories.
Upscale Resale Furniture & More Coupon expires September 30, 2013. Store also accepts donations and consignments.
Environmental Education Lauren Donley, Salisbury University Ashley Eding, University of Tampa Brittany Feroce, Clarion University of Pennsylvania Katie Ferron, University of Arizona Alicea Settlemoir, Southern Illinois University Sea Turtle Research Rebecca Flynn, University of Notre Dame Lisa Hamilton, Florida Gulf Coast University Science Research Tiffany Payton, Tennessee Tech University Environmental Policy Kathryn Campbell, Ave Maria Law School Wildlife Rehabilitation Colleen Cosgrove, University of Wisconsin Judith Gonnello, Northern Missouri State University Elizabeth Hicks, University of Colorado John Lake, SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry Taylor Maylott, Union University