A whole new decade is in front of us. How are we going to make an impact on our community by promoting awareness for our feathered friends and habitats that need protection? I hope our chapter can be an influence in our county by partnering with like-minded agencies and creating opportunities for residents to learn about conservation and protection of our natural resources.

This is how!! We begin our new decade with a wonderful grant proposal, written by our Conservation Chair, Diane Goldberg, and approved by Florida Audubon and supported by FPL, and the St. Lucie County Environmental Resources Dept. The proposal supports the National Audubon “Plants For Birds” Initiative.

We are going to spend a morning (Sunday, January 12th, 2020) planting specific native plants in a county park (Richard E. Becker Preserve) in order to beautify and educate visitors on the possibilities of using native plants for birds and butterflies.

We will plant over 150 native plants of all sizes that will provide food, cover and nesting areas for birds. It will also provide a learning experience for young and old visitors as tours by the County Environmental Resources Dept will be offered several times a year so people can see what the plants, as well as bird populations look like in different seasons. This project will also transform the site to the preserve it should , with plants that are not only native, but also correct for the hydrology and geology of this area.

So roll up your sleeves folks, let’s work together to bring this project to a successful conclusion. Your help that morning will make a BIG difference. Contact Diane Goldberg at digoldberg@bellsouth.net to become a volunteer or call her at 772/343-8666. This is an easy job for all ages and snacks will be provided!!

See you there!

— Ellen Lynch