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Editor: Maria Quasius | Christmas Bird Count - December 2010 |
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Audubon of Southwest Florida's Mission
The mission of Audubon of Southwest Florida is to protect plants, animals, and their habitats and to promote environmental education and a greater community involvement with the natural world.
Audubon of Southwest Florida, Inc. is an affiliated chapter of the National Audubon Society and Audubon of Florida.
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Holiday Greetings from the President of ASWF
Seasons greetings to all. Take time to participate in a birding
event (discussed elsewhere herein) while enjoying the season.
And I dont mean just eat turkey!!
Well, we started off the winter programs with Margaret England of our sister chapter Hendry/Glades Audubon showing photos of the many species of birds at STA-5 (175 species), as well as the birding events on the western shores of Lake Okeechobee. Thank you Margaret for a very informative and fun program. We had 26 in attendance.
Our next event will be Dr Lisa Beever, Director of the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, discussing how climate change will affect habitat and species. We are hoping to have the event at the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium on January 20th, 7pm, if we can finish the logistical discussions.
If not, we will be still at Rutenburg, the County willing and a new ice age doesnt materialize.
We also sponsored the Mangrove Cafe held on December 17th at Rutenburg Park. This quarterly event will be switching between Rutenburg Park and the Calusa Nature Center throughout 2011.
May your new year be Happy!!
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ROGER meeting the Clewiston
Audubon of Southwest Florida President Wayne, Flyways Editor Maria, PPresident Pete, and Audubon's Dr. Paul Gray joined estuary advocates from both coasts at a meeting at the Clewiston Inn in November to develop a proposal, maybe a flowway south from Lake Okeechobee, to protect the estuaries from damaging high flows from the lake. The group named itself ROGER - River of Grass and Estuaries Recovery and Restoration. If interested in joining the effort contact Wayne. Rae Ann Wessel of Sanibel Captiva Conservation Association and Ted Guy of the St. Lucie Rivers Coalition were elected co-chairs of the the group.
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We will hold elections at the annual meeting on April 2nd. If interested in becoming a chapter officer, member of the board of directors, or serving on a committee, please contact Wayne. Vacant or open positions in red. 2010-2011 Board of Directors|
President: Wayne Daltry
1st Vice President: Mary Lee Mann
2nd VP/Treasurer: Jim Rodenfels
Secretary: Vacant - Jim Rodenfels (acting)
Conservation Committee: Brad Cornell (chair),
Pete Quasius, Sarah Larsen
Membership: Elsbeth McCulloch
Birdathon: Toby Clark
Education Chair : Carl Veaux (chair), Sarah Larsen
Program Chair: Mari Hanley
Newsletter Editor : Maria Quasius
Festivals and Special events Chair: Vacant
Field Trips: Vacant
Past Presidents of Audubon of Southwest Florida, who are chapter members in good standing, are entitled to request membership to board. Past presidents include - Bill Hammond, MaryLee Mann, Roger Clark, Connie Jarvis, John Cassani, Don Doggett, Vince McGrath, Pete Quasius, Maria Quasius, Carol Newcomb-Jones, Gerri Reeves
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 | | Egret by Larry Frogge |
Christmas Bird Count
Dec. 18th on Captiva and Dec. 20th in Ft. Myers. |
 | | Sandhill Cane and chick by Mark Renz. |
From December 14 through January 5 tens of thousands of volunteers throughout the Americas take part in an adventure that has become a family tradition among generations. Families and students, birders and scientists, armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists go out on an annual mission - often before dawn. For over one hundred years, the desire to both make a difference and to experience the beauty of nature has driven dedicated people to leave the comfort of a warm house during the Holiday season.
Each of the citizen scientists who annually braves snow, wind, or rain, (sunshine here in Florida) to take part in the Christmas Bird Count makes an enormous contribution to conservation. Audubon and other organizations use data collected in this longest-running wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations - and to help guide conservation action. This year's count will help help scientists understand the impact of the Gulf oil spill on vulnerable species.
From feeder-watchers and field observers to count compilers and regional editors, everyone who takes part in the Christmas Bird Count does it for love of birds and the excitement of friendly competition -- and with the knowledge that their efforts are making a difference for science and bird conservation.
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Climate Change Planning
Thursday, January 20, 2011
7:00p-8:15p
Dr. Lisa Beever, Director, Charlotte Harbor NEP .
Climate Change Planning in Southwest Florida. January Program - Climate Change Planning
Audubon SWFL's January Program
The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program (CHNEP) adopted a climate change priority action within its 2008 Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) update. The plan outlined a framework for CHNEP to "build capacity for communities and their local leadership to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change through joint efforts." The Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council (SWFRPC) and CHNEP jointly developed an integrated approach to climate change assessment and planning that has allowed a progressive expansion of scope and detail, building on past work with each step. The process has developed frameworks which are being replicated in other locations. Dr. Lisa Beever will discuss climate change in southwest Florida, some habitat responses to these changes, as well as plans and approaches which are being adopted.
Dr.Beever is the Director of the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program in Florida. She co-authored the Charlotte Harbor Regional Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment, City of Punta Gorda Climate Change Adaptation Plan, and several policy documents. From 1993-2002, Dr. Beever was the director for the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda Metropolitan (transportation) Planning Organization. She played an important role in creating Charlotte County's first public transit system and pioneered the use of simulation games for public participation programs. Prior to that, she served as Lee County, Florida's Environmental Sciences Director, in charge of environmental planning, permitting, and enforcement. Dr. Beever earned her PhD in Urban and Regional Planning from Texas A&M University, a Master of Landscape Architecture from North Carolina State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture. She enjoys statistical analysis, geographic information systems mapping, benthic invertebrates, hiking in Florida's native plant communities, and running a dachshund on agility courses.
All ASWF meetings and programs are free and open to the public. Location: The Eco Living Center in Rutenberg Park (former library), 6490 South Pointe Drive (between Cypress Lakes Drive and College Parkway), Fort Myers, although we are in discussions with the Calusa Nature Center to hold programs there. Please Register if you are interested in attending. No audience, no program. We also need to be able to contact you if there is a change of venue. |
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Audubon of Southwest Florida's Conservation chair, Brad Cornell, has chosen his nominee for Florida's Special Places. His selection is Big Cypress National Preserve in Southwest Florida. Brad's depth of knowledge and passion for this region is evident in his hard work and in his writing.
This nominee comes at a special time for Audubon and Big Cypress National Preserve, as last week it was announced that after months of advocacy work by Brad Cornell and the rest of the Audubon Policy Team, the State of Florida agreed to convey an additional 29,000+ acres to Big Cypress and the National Park Service - after nearly 30 years of legal wrangling.
Brad's nomination is the culmination of Audubon's signature science-based advocacy and personal passion. I hope you enjoy his entry - and remember, you can submit nominations of your favorite spots at the Florida's Special Places Facebook Page.
Brad's submission:
A real Western Everglades touchstone place that I think qualifies as one of Florida's Special Places is the Big Cypress National Preserve. Almost 3/4 of a million acres of intact freshwater wetland wilderness that flows to the estuaries of the coast is fiercely loved by the people who visit.
As a preserve, it hosts a unique set of activities and visitors - hikers (Florida Trail), birdwatchers, hunters, off-road vehicles users (swamp buggies and airboats), and campers - there are many private inholding camps throughout, as well as public campgrounds.
I have taken Audubon field trips out Turner River Road and Wagon Wheel Road, and others have enjoyed seeing the Red-cockaded Woodpecker groups in the pine areas. I also took my son and several other teens on a memorable coming of age experience in a secluded area of wet prairie, pines and cypress.
It is a landscape that is so unique with vistas worth travelling across the world to see, and wildlife that is diverse and fascinating - panthers, bears, Wood Storks, Spoonbills, etc. There is also nothing like standing in the middle of the Big Cypress at night and gazing at the Milky Way and constellations you just can't see anywhere else in coastal Florida. I know there is a lot of fighting over how to manage this amazing place, but one thing is for certain - all love it.
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Birding at Stormwater Treatment Area #5,
near Clewiston
Hendry/Glades Audubon President Margaret England talked about birding at STA5 and the Big O Birding Festival at the December meeting.
ASWF Program Chair Mari Hanley introduces Margaret's
presentation on birding at STA 5. |
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Cornell mini-grant funding for birds in your neighborhood
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We are forwarding the following information on a funding opportunity that might fit well with urban Important Bird Areas or other neighborhood outreach projects. Call for Mini-Grant Applicants Funds help organizers create fun neighborhood events Ithaca, NY--The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's "Celebrate Urban Birds" project is now accepting applications for another round of mini-grants. Grants average $250-$500 and are used to fund neighborhood events that promote an appreciaton for birds and nature. Neighborhood events or projects feature activities involving birds, community service, art, greening, and science. Participants collect simple information about common birds and report to the Cornell Lab. Celebrate Urban Birds mini-grants could be used to support a bird-activity day at a local museum, afterschool program, library, or community center, or fund art and gardening activities at your club, business, school, senior center, or neighborhood. To apply for a mini-grant, visit www.CelebrateUrbanBirds.org.
Organizations working with underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply. No experience with birds is required. Deadline to apply is Feb. 15, 2011 Celebrate Urban Birds is a free, year-round citizen science project in which participants watch birds in their neighborhoods and report what they see. This information helps scientists better understand how birds survive in cities and make use of green spaces, including parks and gardens. Contact: Karen Purcell, Project Leader, (607) 254-2455, urbanbirds@cornell.edu
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ASWF Birdaton April 2. Contact Toby to help organize.
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 | | Reddish egret by Larry Frogge |
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http://web4.audubon.org/bird/birdathon/
Birdathon! is Audubon's largest annual fundraising event and the world's biggest birdwatching competition.
Anyone can do a Birdathon.
And if you can't tell a goose from a grouse, we can teach you how, or simply sign you up as a sponsor. Each year, participants nationwide from sponsors, helping to fund our mission of environmental conservation, education, and advocacy. It's the most fun you'll ever have saving the planet!
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PARTICIPATING. CLICK HERE!
 Birdathon 2010Pins Available, to order click here
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River, Roots & Ruts Trail Run.
 | | PPresident John Cassani making tracks |
Volunteers needed: For the past eight years Audubon of Southwest Florida and our president, Wayne, wearing a variety of hats, have helped staff this fun event. Check it out and then "register" to be an ASWF volunteer for the River, Roots and Ruts Run. We get a percentage of profits, if any, based on volunteer participation. The run organizer, Steve Brookman, is also our webmaster - we owe him. Check the "old photos" for familiar faces.
The 8th Annual
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Half Marathon and Relay 8:00 am
5K Fun Run 8:15 am
River, Roots & Ruts Trail Run
Registration is now open
RRR featured in the ATRA Spring 2010 newsletter
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Education Committee member Sarah Larsen and President Wayne Daltry having a cup of holiday cheer at the December meeting.
 | | Charles Forter |
Please send your tax deducible contribution to support
the Charles Foster Conservation Fund to:
Audubon of Southwest Florida, Inc.
Post Office Box 61041
Fort Myers, Florida 33906-1041
''A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE
OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES By CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-
7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR
RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.'' REGISTRATION# CH30193 |
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Please click on the program and field trip announcements and "register". Why? We need to have some idea of how many people are planning to attend so the organizers can set up the venue, the presenter can tailor the program, prepare handouts etc, and the chapter can justify the costs. In the event of cancelation we can also contact you so you don't make a nonproductive trip.
If you decide to use Constant Contact for some other organization you are associated with, tell them Audubon of Southwest Florida sent you. We'll get a rebate on our costs, as good as a donation, but we hope you'll consider an end of year gift too. Please "subscribe" to Flyways so we can send you the next edition when it is produced. We promise not to share your email address with any other organization. You can unsubscribe with just a "click" on any incoming message. |
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Audubon of Southwest Florida is a sponsor of Eco-Voice
Eco-Voice, Inc. is provided as a public service to facilitate the flow of information about environmental issues and events in South Florida. The Voice also produces a daily digest of eco-news and happenings in South Florida. Give it a try.
Registration for the Eco-Voice Daily Digest
Please enter your email address below to sign up for the Eco-Voice Daily Digest mailing list.
Eco-Voice, Inc. uses  which guarantees the permanent removal of your email address from its mailing lists.
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2011 EVERGLADES COALITION CONFERENCE
Renewal of Life for the Everglades: Moving Forward Together
January 6 - 9, 2011
Join over 300 attendees at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa on January 6 - 11, 2011 to engage in meaningful discussions and presentations on America's Everglades.
The Everglades Coalition is an alliance of 53 local, state and national conservation and environmental organizations (including Audubon of Southwest Florida) dedicated to full restoration of the greater Everglades ecosystem.
REGISTER NOW! The deadline for the discounted early registration fee of $150 is December 10, 2010. After December 10, the registration fee for the full conference (not including meals) will be $190.
RESERVE NOW! Please make your hotel reservation early to receive the special
Everglades Coalition rate of $159 (plus tax) per night at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa. https://resweb.passkey.com/go/everglades
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Contributions to Audubon of Southwest Florida, Inc., a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization, are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
''A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE
OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES By CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-
7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR
RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.'' REGISTRATION# CH30193
Audubon of Southwest Florida, Inc,
P.O. Box 61041
Fort Myers, Florida 33906-1041
www.AudubonSWFL.org
info@AububonSWFL.org |
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