Florida WINTERNaturalist 2009 / 2010

AUDUBON’S CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY NAMED A RAMSAR WETLAND OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE 2009 –2010 Board of Directors

John Hankinson, Jr., Chairman Creative Solutions for the Environment J. T. Ambrozy, Vice Chairman Philanthropist John Robert Middlemas, Vice Chairman EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Northwest Region John F. Flanigan, Esq., Immediate Past Chairman “The Voice of Florida Conservation” — I remember being inspired by this phrase early Moyle, Flanigan, Katz, Raymnd & Sheehan John Sorey, Board Secretary in my career. It describes an organization of grassroots leaders and professional staff Management Support Systems, Inc. who participate in a tradition of protecting natural Florida that has flourished since Christine Andrews, Ph.D., Board Treasurer Sanibel Captiva Audubon Society the 19th century. Richard Gragg, Ph.D., Asst. Secretary Florida A&M University Environmental Nature teaches us that change is inevitable, and Audubon’s voice is changing. My Sciences Institute Sandy Batchelor friend and former boss David Anderson, who led Audubon of Florida well for the The Batchelor Foundation, Inc. past five years, left our nest in November. As I assumed the role of Acting Executive Fred Bennett Lykes Brothers, Inc. Director and worked with David on a smooth transition, I also stepped up my com- Missy Christie mitment to this beautiful part of the world we call Florida. I pledged even more of my Venice Area Audubon Society time, energy, and resources to advance Audubon’s goals and objectives and I call on Neil Davies Northeast Region, Flagler Audubon Society you to do the same. Henry Dean Former Executive Director, Audubon’s voice in Florida has grown to include four conservation science centers, South Florida Water Management District John W. Elting habitat restoration, raptor rehabilitation, and yes, the most effective environmental Naturalist and philanthropist policy work in the state. More importantly, our network of locally-led Audubon chap- Charles Geanangel Lake Region Audubon Society ters continues to flourish. While Everglades restoration is finally advancing, funding Dave Kandz for the Florida Forever public lands program has been halted. Springs, lakes, and Gulf Coast Region, rivers are suffering increased nutrient pollution, and climate change solutions must St. Petersburg Audubon Society Randy LaBauve be codified into statewide clean energy policies. Florida Power & Light Co. Carlos Lacasa, Esq. Everglades Region Audubon will help provide solutions to these and other conservation challenges. We Neil J. Lamb, Ph.D. have a unique approach to connecting people with nature that uses recorded obser- Bay County Audubon Society vations of scientists and everyday birdwatchers, renews ecosystems, and works with Stuart Langton, Ph.D. Stuart Langton and Associates partners to defend and advance environmental policies and funding. As you enjoy Sheri Ford Lewin this edition of the Florida Naturalist, consider using the enclosed envelope to make a Environmental Resource Marketing West McCann year-end gift to strengthen the “Voice of Conservation.” Then go out and enjoy the Northern Trust Bank holiday season and the gift of nature we call Florida. Ann Moore Member at Large Cynthia Plockelman Eric Draper Audubon Society of the Everglades Diane Reed St Johns County Audubon Society Doug Santoni Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Michael Sheridan Fringe Benefits Management Company Acting Executive Director Katie Sproul Audubon of Florida Barron Collier Companies Andy Stamper, DVM Disney’s Animal Programs Robert Stamps, Ph.D. Central Region, Orange Audubon Society Barbara Sheen Todd Gulf Coast Region Jens Tripson Central Region, Pelican Island Audubon Society Doug Warns, Ph.D. Audubon of Martin County George W. Willson Willson Consulting, LLC ENERGY, WATER AND MONEY will dominate 2010 Legislature

Florida’s struggling economy will shape the debate on environmental issues in the state’s 2010 legisla- tive session. From oil drilling to water policy, an insistent demand to waive longstanding protections on natural resources will require extraordinary vigilance from Audubon and our conservation allies.

Ironically, the beautiful coastlines and clean water that have been the foundation of Florida’s tourism-based economy may be sacrificed to short-term, unsustainable economic agendas. Support from every Audubon member will be important to rebuffing these shortsighted proposals.

Simultaneously, Audubon will be working to fund Florida Forever and keep money flowing for Everglades restoration. For the first time in nearly 30 years, the 2009 legislature failed to fund state

Burrowing owl by Christina Evans land conservation programs. Audubon must insist that part of the state budget, however small, be targeted to maintaining the commitment to preserve the natural places that make Florida special.

Audubon is committed to refocusing the energy debate from oil drilling to conservation and renewable power. Conservation is also the solution to Florida’s perennial water problems. Your help is needed to confront Tallahassee about energy, water, and funding. You can do three things: • Get to know your legislators. Write, call or visit. Tell them you care about Florida’s environment. • Subscribe to free online legislative updates by visiting www.audubonofflorida.org and clicking on Take Action. • Use the enclosed envelope to make a contribution to Audubon’s Florida policy work.

TALKING POINTS YOU CAN USE TO HELP DELIVER VOTES FOR CONSERVATION Energy (Drilling vs. renewable energy and conservation) The risks to Florida’s coastline from oil rigs, pipelines, and storage tanks outweigh the benefits. Florida’s beach-based tourism economy would not recover from a major spill like the one that occurred in 2009 in the Timor Sea near Australia. Stated potential benefits from drilling, such as jobs and increased tax revenues, have turned out to be untrue. Go to www.Protectfloridasbeaches.org for more information.

Water for the environment Once more the Legislature may consider caving in to developers and rewriting Florida’s water laws to weaken protection for wetlands and springs, while making it easier for urban areas to grab water from natural and undeveloped areas. We must retain existing laws that allow citizens to say, “Hands off our water!” And we need to make sure that state agencies move forward with rules to control pollution draining into the Everglades and other waterways.

Florida Forever Just $10 million in initial debt service will allow the state to issue $300 million in bonds to preserve land. Nearly two million acres of special habitats await state purchase. We must buy that land now before it is lost forever.

Everglades Restoration Audubon supports full funding for the state’s share of Everglades restoration costs and for cleaning up Lake Okeechobee. Along with state funds, Audubon will seek new rules to prevent pollution from entering the Everglades ecosystem. Human waste and farm fertilizers continue to add far too much nutrient pollution to the waterways that flow into the Everglades.

Do your part to help secure Florida’s environment for future generations.

OTHER EVERGLADES NEWS Audubon has intervened in a state court to allow the South Florida Water Management District to sell bonds to finance purchase of U.S. Sugar lands for restoration purposes. Audubon will join the Everglades Foundation in hosting the first-ever Everglades Summit in Washington, DC. For information on participating in the summit, contact Julie Hill Gabriel at 305-371-6399 or [email protected].

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 3 1 2

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1. Keynote speaker Dr. Sylvia Earle, author and Explorer in Residence of the National Geographic Society, with John Flicker, president of the National Audubon Society.

2. Florida Women in Conservation honored at the Audubon Assembly, left to right: Nancy Douglass, Guy Bradley Award recipient; Heidi McCree, Florida’s Special Places Award recipient; Traci Romine, Audubon Staff Award of Distinction recipient; keynote speaker Dr. Silvia Earle; Barbara Sheen Todd, Theodore Roosevelt Award for Conservation Achievement recipient; Mary Barley, Champion of the Everglades Award recipient; Betty Castor, Audubon of Florida’s first recipient of the Florida Women in Conservation Award.

3. Craig Pittman and Matthew Waite (seated) signed copies of their book Paving Paradise: Florida’s Vanishing Wetlands and chatted with Mark Kraus of the Everglades Foundation (in background), and Audubon’s Jason Lauritsen and Brad Cornell.

4. Eric Draper, Audubon of Florida’s acting executive director, moderated the Dialogue on Climate Change and Coastal Conservation.

5. A nature preserve on the hotel’s grounds offered convenient birding opportunities to Assembly participants.

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AUDUBON THANKS THE DIALOGUE PLANNING PARTNERS Florida Department of Environmental Protection • Southwest Florida Water Management District • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • U.S. Geological Survey • University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science • University of Central Florida • Florida Atlantic University • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2009 AUDUBON ASSEMBLY in St. Petersburg

Dialogue panelists, left to right: Dr. Ellen Prager, Chief Scientist, Aquarius Reef Base; Nick Wiley, Assistant Executive Director, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; Michael W. Sole, Secretary, Florida Department of Environmental Protection; David L. Moore, Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District.

About 250 conservation and business leaders, scientists, and university students kicked off the 2009 Audubon Assembly in October by participating in a Dialogue on Climate Change and Coastal Conservation.

The Dialogue began with a lively discussion between expert panelists and engaged citizens. Then everyone put their heads together and developed more than 25 recommendations to reduce coastal vulnerability to sea level rise, storms and storm surges; protect infrastructure and freshwater resources; plot financial strategies; and minimize effects of climate change on people and wildlife. To download a report on the proceedings and the full recommendations, visit www.audubonofflorida.org and click on Cutting Edge Conservation at the top of the page.

Following that rousing session, participants enjoyed awards luncheons, engaged in learning sessions, and gathered for the Women in Conservation banquet featuring a compelling speech by oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle. There was even time to connect with nature on field trips organized by St. Petersburg Audubon Society, or just strolling along the boardwalk in the Carillon Park conservation area.

The Assembly culminated with an animated session to set Audubon’s 2010 conservation agenda (summarized on pages 6 – 7 of this issue), an instructive workshop on opposing oil drilling, and an inspiring interlude of storytelling about the ways climate change is affecting our everyday environment.

SPECIAL THANKS TO 2009 AUDUBON ASSEMBLY SPONSORS Adage • Southwest Florida Water Management District • Mosaic Fertilizer • Progress Energy • Plum Creek Timber • Florida Gas Transmission Co. • Entrix • Florida Power & Light • SeaWorld • University of Central Florida • Palm Island Resort • Max West Environmental Systems • Royal Caribbean International • Golder Associates • Columbia County Tourist Development Council • St. Petersburg Audubon Society

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 5 Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park by Christina Evans

Protecting Nature’s Abundance Audubon of Florida’s 2010 Conservation Priorities

More than 200 conservation leaders gathered in October and approved the 2010 statewide and regional conservation priorities at the Audubon Assembly in St. Petersburg. This is a powerful moment when Audubon’s community affirms its commitment to conserving natural habitats for the benefit of birds and wildlife so each generation can thrive and enjoy nature’s abundance.

Priorities are recommended by the policy committee of Audubon’s board. Chapter-led Regional Conservation Committees recommend regional concerns. Nine resolutions capturing these priorities were passed for 2010. All share the common commitment that Audubon of Florida, deploying professional staff and expertise and using information derived from sound science in alignment with the volunteer leadership of Audubon societies (chapters) will call on our members and grassroots networks, and work with conservation allies, business, community leaders, and public officials.

Audubon will focus on three major conservation initiatives and six regional plans in 2010, all of which rest on a framework of five general policy areas: climate change and energy policy, growth management and transportation, public land protection and management, water resource protection, and wildlife policy.

Statewide Conservation Priorities for 2010 Climate Change – To address this serious emerging threat to the world’s biodiversity and wildlife, Audubon will take aggressive stands on a range of policies to establish and meet greenhouse gas emission reductions targets. Priorities include advocating for strong renewable energy and energy efficiency policies in Florida, meaningful climate legislation to cap emissions nationally, and work toward adoption of policies to adapt to climate change.

Coastal Conservation – Audubon will continue to expand its policy advocacy and communications focus on protecting coastal habitats. Its unified coastal conservation strategy includes research and advocacy in the coastal Everglades and coastal islands, management of colonial bird nesting areas, greatly expanded chapter work on shorebirds, and expanded programs in northwest and northeast Florida.

Greater Everglades Ecosystem – Restoring and protecting this ecosystem—encompassing three million acres of wetlands and estuaries—is a keystone issue for Audubon. Every state and federal policy has implications for the Everglades and our work on restoration issues illustrates the value of Audubon’s science, policy, and grassroots efforts.

Visit www.audubonofflorida.org and click on Cutting Edge Conservation to read the statewide and regional priority resolutions. Unique conservation efforts for Florida’s specific regions REGIONAL CONSERVATION PRIORITIES FOR 2010 Swallow-tailed kite by R. J. Wiley

Northeast Florida Ecosystems the region is already altered, disturbed, and dominated by humans, The beaches of Northeast Florida are critical to birds in every season, pro- as population growth and development have diminished habitats. viding crucial nesting areas for some species, and resting and feeding Audubon will continue its advocacy to protect ecosystems from new threats areas for migrating and wintering birds. such as oil drilling and advocate for regional smart-growth planning; make Audubon’s Northeast office will support Audubon chapters’ efforts to protect science-based decisions to protect springs, lakes, and rivers; advocate for coastal species and oppose activities, including deposition of sand on living state and federal policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote shorelines, dredging, and coastal armoring, which diminish habitat value. clean energy policies; and advocate for wildlife corridors. Advocates will work to strengthen existing habitat protection laws and to protect water resources. Greater Everglades Ecosystem This ecosystem has been ditched, drained, polluted, invaded by exotic species, Northwest Florida Ecosystems and paved over for buildings and roads. As a result, many species are jeop- The Panhandle and Big Bend coastal areas are among the state’s least- ardized, and wading bird super-colonies that once symbolized the ecosys- developed and most ecologically-productive regions. This richness is tem are all but gone. Progress was made in 2009 to jumpstart bridging for jeopardized by proposals to open Florida’s coastal waters to oil drilling. Tamiami Trail and begin the first phase of the C-111 canal project to increase Audubon and its chapters will focus on blocking attempts to lift the exist- natural freshwater flows to the southern Everglades and Florida Bay. ing ban on oil and natural gas drilling in state waters or to expand toward Building on successes, Audubon will advocate for a 2010 Water Resources Florida the boundaries of drilling area in federal waters. Development Act (WRDA) to authorize priority projects and work toward federal funding for restoration projects. It will focus on improving water Central Florida Ecosystems quality, protecting Lake Okeechobee, ensuring that Everglades restoration Aquatic ecosystems in Central Florida are home to the nation’s largest moves quickly to combat the worst impacts of climate change, and will group of nesting bald eagles. The region’s ecosystems also support a diver- guard against the encroachment of development. sity of important wildlife. These systems are compromised by urban sprawl, misused water resources, and a vehicle-dependent transportation system Southwest Florida Ecosystems that produces major greenhouse gas emissions. Southwest Florida is one of the fastest growing regions in the nation. Audubon will work with chapters and volunteers to improve freshwater qual- Working from the science and policy base of the Corkscrew Swamp ity; support distributed storage to store and cleanse water in the Kissimmee Sanctuary and advocacy resources statewide, Audubon will work to mini- watershed; enhance and expand land use planning and zoning; foster better mize the impact of this growth on specific components of the region’s management of existing habitat; and advocate for public transportation to ecosystems, and proactively focus on broad conservation achievements. reduce dependence on cars. Audubon will protect and restore components of Big Cypress, Corkscrew, Caloosahatchee, Fisheating Creek, and Charlotte Harbor ecosystems; support Gulf Coast Ecosystems state, local, water management district and regional land acquisition; and Florida’s Gulf coastal areas include essential, often fragile, habitats used ensure the protection necessary for essential habitat preservation, restora- by diverse species of birds, fish, and other wildlife and plants. Much of tion, and water management.

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 7 FLORIDA GEM BECOMES A WORLD JEWEL Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance

Audubon of Florida’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, home of the world’s largest stand of virgin cypress trees, and the associated Panther Island Mitigation Bank (PIMB), has been listed as a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention.

Official designation on Ramsar’s list underscores the need to protect this vital resource from a host of threats, including invasive species and development in sensitive watersheds for which Corkscrew is an essential link. Nearly 200 species of birds thrive in the sanctuary, renowned as home to America's largest nesting colonies of federally endangered wood storks. The storks nest in majestic 600-year-old cypress tress, some as tall as 40 meters.

Also included in the designation are lands totaling more than 2,700 acres that were contributed to the Sanctuary, together with management funding in perpetuity, by the Panther Island Mitigation Bank. The mitigation bank project successfully restored degraded wetlands and pro- vided additional wood stork habitat that complements the Corkscrew sanctuary. This is the first time Ramsar has recognized mitigation bank property.

Adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands promotes conservation of wetland habitats around the world, from the Florida Everglades to Africa’s Corkscrew composite image by R.J. Wiley Okavango Delta. Corkscrew’s listing marks the second Audubon sanctuary in the nation to receive the Ramsar designation. Audubon’s Beidler Forest in South Carolina was listed in 2008.

Created in 1954 to protect old-growth cypress forest from loggers, Corkscrew is a 13,000-acre Located at 375 Sanctuary Road West in sanctuary inland from Naples and Fort Myers on Florida’s west coast. In 1950, the Audubon Naples, Corkscrew is open to visitors from Society purchased the area, protecting the ecosystem not only for birds, but for the Florida panther, 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. every day between April 11 American alligator, black bear, Florida royal palm, and rare ghost orchid. The Sanctuary also and September 30. Between October 1 and supports a diversity of neotropical migrants, large numbers of wintering land birds, and the April 10, Corkscrew is open to the public from third-largest roost for swallow-tailed kites in the country. 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission to the board- walk within one hour of closing is not allowed. The Ramsar listing corroborates what many visitors and philanthropists already sense—that The Sanctuary may close when severe weather Corkscrew is an irreplaceable part of the planet’s interconnected web of life. Annually 100,000 threatens. For information on admission fees, people visit Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and the Blair Audubon Center in Naples, including call 239-348-9151. 6,000 school children, contributing to Audubon’s effort to connect people with nature. Ongoing generous support helps Audubon maintain and protect this international jewel and provide the education and ecological management that will protect it for generations.

The Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, www.ramsar.org, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. A VICTORY Wiley storks Wood by R.J. for Wetlands, Wood Storks, Water, and All Supporters of the Save Our Swamp Initiative

Cocohatchee Slough wetlands flowing from Audubon of Florida’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and the wood stork habitat so important to this species received important protection in October. A federal judge agreed with Audubon and its allies, ruling to revoke a wetlands destruction permit issued to a developer in 2007.

Audubon of Florida, Collier County Audubon Society, National and Florida Wildlife Federations, and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, with litigation support from the Everglades Foundation, have been working for years to protect the Cocohatchee Slough from harmful development. In his ruling, federal District Judge Jose Martinez revoked the Mirasol wetland destruction permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2007, and invalidated the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s biological opinion, which assesses the project’s potential threat to endangered wood storks nesting at Corkscrew.

The basis for the permit’s revocation was agreement with the environmental groups’ claim that accounting for the cumulative impacts of all the devel- opment in the same watershed was inadequate. Mirasol would destroy 645 acres of wetlands and stork habitat in order to build two golf courses and 799 homes, while other adjacent projects would destroy at least another 500 acres.

A ruling from the same judge on a similar challenge is expected soon. Audubon and its allies filed against the adjacent Saturnia Falls project. While the judge’s rulings can be appealed, it is not clear what will happen next. This decisive victory for wetland and habitat protection is the result of the support and persistence of Audubon’s members, friends, and allies.

Least tern and chick © Dave Macri

Action Worthy of a National Park Beach driving now prohibited at Fort Matanzas National Monument

Fort Matanzas National Monument beach on coast, Matanzas supports the largest reported has the potential to become an ecotourism Matanzas Inlet can begin to heal and reveal a beach-nesting least tern colony on Florida’s destination of national importance and visitors beauty previously hidden beneath scars of tire Atlantic coast. It was one of only two beach sites will enjoy a more national park-like experience. tracks. The National Park Service—at the urging from Flagler to Nassau counties to fledge least of Audubon of Florida, Audubon chapters, tern chicks this year. Matanzas Inlet is home to Audubon applauds the Park Service for imple- National Parks Conservation Association, turtle several families of Wilson’s plovers and offers pre- menting and enforcing this significant protec- patrols, volunteers and supporters—announced cious feeding and resting habitat for a variety of tion measure, and thanks its friends, partners, that effective January l, 2010, the beach will be shorebirds and seabirds. A migrating red knot—a chapter conservation leaders, and supporters closed to vehicles year round. species in danger of extinction—banded in 2006 who have helped to restore a healthy equilibrium in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, was observed feed- to Matanzas Inlet and the species that depend For vulnerable shorebirds and seabirds, and ing at the shoreline in May 2009 after its 6,000- on this living beach. pedestrian beachgoers alike, this ruling provides mile migration from the south. One must admire important protection. Visitors can enjoy a beach this special guest, which stopped at Matanzas to experience worthy of a national park, sitting at the prepare for another journey of 2,000 miles to nest- water’s edge without feeling they are in a parking ing grounds in the Arctic. lot, strolling across the sand without dodging deep tire ruts (like those visible in the photo at right), A permanent end to beach driving at the and enjoying the spectacle of abundant wildlife. Monument lets the Park Service meet its legal obligation to protect these important species One of two never-dredged inlets on Florida’s east and public trust resources. Fort Matanzas beach

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 9 THANK YOU Audubon is deeply grateful to all the individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations whose generous contributions supported our conservation work throughout Florida during our fiscal year 2009. The following list recognizes donors from July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009

$100,000 and above Robert F. Schumann Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society Lojo Foundation The Batchelor Foundation Mae Wood VS Consulting - Sheri Ford Lewin Kate Luzius The Everglades Foundation, Inc. Worksite Communications, Inc. – Wheelabrator McKay Bay M. Mallory Lykes Joe Guardino & Michael Joan Marinelli $50,000 - $99,999 Sheridan $1,000 - $2,499 Lowell & Elizabeth Mason The Energy Foundation Paul and Christine Andrews J. West McCann FPL Group Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Ralph Arwood Meredith Corp. Foundation - R. Kirk Landon and Pamela Jaye Barrett Geraldine Baer Sharon and Richard Stilwell Garrison Robert and Francine Barrett Mary Barley James Morris The Martin Foundation CF Industries Inc. Edward E. & Lillian Bishop Stephen Nellis The St. Joe Company Joanne and John DallePezze Foundation Lois Paradise Foundation Mike Brookins Sarasota Audubon Society $25,000 - $49,999 The Frank E. Duckwall John T. Bullitt P. Lynn Scarlett Collier County Audubon Society Foundation, Inc. Kevin and Julia Burkett Susan Schumann-Skehan Conoco Phillips Company - Richard and Mary Ann Ellison Paul Burnham James H. Sigsbee Victoria Tschinkel Gray Robinson Attorneys at Law Thomas Carr Elinor Beidler Siklossy Foundation Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund John Henry Hankinson Clearwater Audubon Society Christine Smith Hammock Creek Green LLC Lykes Bros., Inc. Barron Collier Companies John Sorey Lake Nona Marketing, LLC MPS Foundation - Joanne Arbaugh Community Foundation of New J. Holley Taylor Mitigation Marketing, LLC - Navron Corporation Jersey - Edward & Lois The Carol Coleman Timmis Dennis Benbow Pinellas County Community Konikowski Foundation LTD The Nature Conservancy - Florida Foundation - Bushnell Fund F. W. Corrigan Venice Area Audubon Society Perkins Charitable Foundation Douglas Santoni Cheryl Cummer Doug and Madeleine Warns Pinellas County Community SeaWorld & Busch Gardens David Dance Richard Williams Foundation - Conservation Fund W. Michael and Linda Dennis Bill and Ginnie Young Theodore & Marian Tonne Fund Stallion 51 Corp - Lee Lauderback Genevieve Dimmitt Elaine and Scott Taylor Ernst Steudle Eagle Audubon Society Jim and Jonnie Swann Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund - We apologize for any omissions or $10,000 - $24,999 TECO Energy Dana Fund errors on this list. Please contact the Joseph T. Ambrozy Wodecroft Foundation - GE Foundation Development Dept. at 305-371-6399 Anonymous Mrs. Roger Drackett Neil Guesero to report additions or corrections. Gordon J. Barnett Memorial Stanley and Mildred Zamo Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Foundation Foundation Company, LLC Barron Collier Companies Gubelmann Family Foundation Bonita Bay Group $2,500 - $4,999 Winston Guest Fred and Judy Buechner John Burkhart Gulf Coast Community Foundation The Chingos Foundation CGMK Foundation of Venice Marjorie Drescher John F. Flanigan Hamill Family Foundation The Elizabeth Ordway Dunn E. Candace Forsyth Hamilton Family Foundation Foundation Kenneth Anthony Hale Harold L. Wyman Foundation, Inc.- John Elting B.D. & Jane E. McIntyre Walter and Barbara Korntheuer Environmental Defense - Foundation Merrill G. & Emita E. Hastings Action Fund John Robert Middlemas Foundation Stuart Langton John Murphy Ethel Huisking The Forrest and Frances Lattner Northern Trust Eloise Ingram Foundation Orion Dredging Services K2 Engineering Inc. Marcia MacKinnon Richard Pettigrew Josephine Kixmiller Gloria M. & W. Douglas Pitts Progress Energy of Florida Landon, Moree & Associates, Inc. The Rayonier Foundation Reef Rod & Gun Club, Inc. Jean Langton DENNIS BENBOW Working to conserve natural Florida

When he was growing up in the countryside near Fort Wayne, Indiana, Dennis Benbow was fascinated with the outdoors. “I have had more than 200 birds as pets,” Benbow recalls, “several of them rescued from the wild after being injured.”

Forty years ago, Benbow moved to Florida to take a job in the agricultural industry. “In 1993 I had the good fortune to meet Audubon of Florida’s Charles Lee. I was impressed by his knowl- edge, and by Audubon’s dedication to protecting natural places and providing habitat for wildlife. I quickly saw that we were working toward the same goal, and thought perhaps we could work together to better locate environmentally-sensitive properties, putting them under conservation to provide for wildlife.” Benbow has been a major contributor to Audubon’s programs and intends

Photo courtesy of Scott Todd Photography. to continue his support.

In 1998 Benbow incorporated Mitigation Marketing, which repre- sents 31,500 acres of restored and protected uplands and wetlands in Florida. “My company’s mitigation banks create, restore, and When he was growing up in enhance habitat to provide wildlife sanctuaries,” he explains. To the countryside near Fort Wayne, gather even more support for habitat conservation initiatives, he Indiana, Dennis Benbow was recently founded a statewide group, the Florida Association of fascinated with the outdoors. Mitigation Bankers. Benbow and his staff have been active in fundraising initiatives for the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, and are dedicated to continuing the Center’s growth.

He recalls with pride the day in 2006 when he released Lucky, a rescued bald eagle, at his first restoration property, located in Osceola County. Optimistic about the potential of land-banking in Florida, Benbow sees a trend toward increased development of property in already-urbanized metropolitan centers. And that will mean more Florida’s lands and wetland areas will remain in a wild state for the benefit of birds and other wildlife.

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 11 Looking for the perfect gift for the person who has everything?

Kestrel Kestrel with holiday tree by Warren Susie Look no further.

Giving green and supporting your favorite conservation organization can go a long way to help Florida’s environment. The Adopt a Bird program at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is an important way you can participate in the conservation of Florida’s magnificent raptors housed and treated at the Center.

The perfect holiday gift, an “adoption” is an annual investment in the care, feeding, and medical treatment of birds brought to the Center for care, and those permanently housed there for educational programs. An adoption packet includes a certificate, photo, biography, and species information. Adoption levels range from $35 and up. Download an adoption form at www.audubonofflorida.org or call 407-644-0190 for more details.

The Center is open during the holiday season, so bring family and friends to learn about Audubon conservation and Florida’s magnificent raptors. Center hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

THINK OF YOUR BEQUEST TO AUDUBON OF FLORIDA AS AN INVESTMENT. HERE ARE SOME OF THE DIVIDENDS… Audubon of Florida has been a leader in Florida conservation for over a century. We are one of the oldest and most effective advocates for birds, other wildlife, and their habitats. Please support our conservation work by including a bequest in your will, or by naming Audubon of Florida as a beneficiary of your retirement plan assets.

WE SUGGEST THE FOLLOWING WORDING: I bequeath __% of my residuary estate (or $_____) to the National Audubon Society, Inc., a not-for-profit environemental conservation organization located at 225 Varick St., 7th Floor, NewYork, NY 10014, for its Florida State Office, known as “Audubon of Florida.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Claudia Welsh, Audubon of Florida, 444 Brickell Ave., Suite []850, Miami, FL 33131, or call 305-371-6399, Ext. 127. PHOTOGRAPH BY R J WILEY AUDUBON CENTER FOR BIRDS OF PREY CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF RAPTOR REHABILITATION, CONSERVATION, AND EDUCATION IN FLORIDA.

1. Representatives from Disney accept an award from Center Administrator Katie Warner, far right. Photo courtesy of Scott Todd Photography, who donated photographic services for the evening.

2.Audubon of Florida’s Charles Lee and his wife Carol Barice at the celebration. Photo courtesy of Scott Todd Photography.

On November 12, 2009, 140 friends and supporters of the Audubon Center his own beak healed; and Speedy, the exhausted migrant peregrine falcon for Birds of Prey celebrated 30 years of caring for and protecting raptors who propelled himself out of the ocean, into a small boat, ate a granola while preserving Central Florida’s ecosystems. The celebration, held at the bar, and was flown by private plane to the Center because his rescuers Fairwinds Alumni Center at the University of Central Florida, honored had heard about Dr. Hess. To date, Dr. Hess has played a role in the care Audubon’s Charles Lee, Dr. Robert Hess, and the Disney Worldwide of more than 14,000 raptors, more than 40 percent of which have been Conservation Fund. released back into the wild.

Miami native Charles Lee cut his conservation teeth on the great early Audubon’s partnership with the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund has battles to save the Everglades and other habitats in southeast Florida. been vital to the Center’s EagleWatch program. Its support over the years Through 37 years of service to Audubon, Lee has helped governors, cabinet has helped Audubon to expand what began as a three-county program members, and legislative leaders reach legal and legislative solutions to in 1992 into an initiative that keeps an eye on more than 25 percent of issues as diverse as halting the destruction of wetlands to purchasing Florida’s nesting bald eagles. More than 300 citizen-science volunteers state lands for conservation. Audubon is grateful for Lee’s advocacy, now monitor upwards of 250 urban eagle nests. The Center treasures the the results of which are visible everywhere in Florida. partnership, as well as the broader relationship Audubon and Disney have enjoyed for many years. Miracles began to happen when veterinarian Robert Hess brought his skills to the Center. Birds received state-of-the-art medical treatment, The Wind Beneath Our Wings celebration raised nearly $30,000. This including bone grafts and laser surgery. Some of Dr. Hess’s memorable support will ensure that the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey remains patients include Stevie-Ray, the eagle with corneal damage who wore the gold standard for raptor rehabilitation east of the Mississippi, and protective contact lenses while his eyes recovered; Jimmy Durante, a continues the conservation work so vital to preserving Florida’s special barred owl who wore a temporary beak fashioned of dental acrylic while places and their inhabitants.

Thank you, sponsors of Wind Beneath Our Wings Mary Barley • Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund • Environmental Resource Marketing • Clay Henderson • Massey Services, Inc. • Mitigation Marketing, LLC • Nathaniel Reed • Donald Reid, Jr. • Rumberger Kirk & Caldwell • John Sowinski • University of Central Florida. Audubon of Florida is grateful to the individuals, companies and organizations who contributed to the silent auction. Special thanks to the Elaine Berol Taylor & Scott Bevan Taylor Foundation for matching support of the silent auction.

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 13 Congratulations to 2009 Chapter Award Winners

Pictured left to right: Lesley Royce, conservation chair, and Carole Adams, president, Duval Audubon; Mauri Dietrich, president, and Dave Kandz, conservation chair, St. Petersburg Audubon; former executive director David Anderson, chapter coordinator Jacqui Sulek; Paula Wehr, vice president, Halifax River Audubon; Neil Lamb, president, Bay County Audubon, and Carolyn McKinney,Tampa Audubon.

More than twenty chapter nominations were submitted this year, making the competition tough. Members of the award selection committee worked diligently to review and score the nominations. Here are the results. Best Chapter Membership Recruitment Program: Tampa Audubon Society People join Audubon chapters for many reasons, and one of them is to have fun. Frog listening, bat bonding, raffles, field trips and creative programming were some of the many ways that Tampa Audubon attracted 58 new chapter-generated members in 2009. The emphasis is on chapter-generated. Best Chapter Education Program: Bay County Audubon Society Education is a tool that connects Audubon chapters with their communities. With a ten-member education committee, Bay County Audubon organized activities for all age groups. A remedial reading teacher had students read “Audubon Adventures” to newborns at a daycare center. Another initiative had children of varying ages evaluate birding field guides to determine which was best for teaching kids to identify birds. Hands-on projects taught kids and adults the importance of conservation. Congratulations to Lisa Keppner and her education team. Best Chapter Conservation Project: Halifax River Audubon Conservation is the ultimate goal of an Audubon chapter. Halifax River Audubon took the lead in bringing eight different organizations together on a 16-month project to fund and build an access trail, observation deck, and signage in a little-known area of the Tomoka State Park. The fact that so many individuals and organizations were willing to volunteer their time and donate funding demonstrates that the community considers it important to preserve, protect, and conserve our natural resources. Chapter of the Year: St. Petersburg Audubon Society A strong chapter shows a steady increase in membership, sound financial status, and strong education and conservation programs. This one is well known for its Beach Nesting Bird Program, leadership in the protection of Shell Key, its least tern project, and its voice of conservation. In 2009, the chapter produced a four-day camp for teachers after learning that a similar program at Hog Island in Maine had temporarily closed. Chapter members have been generous in their donations to Audubon of Florida programs. However, the chapter‘s greatest asset is the commitment of its volunteers. For 100 years, the culture of conservation has flourished among members of the St. Petersburg Audubon Society, thanks to its outstanding leaders and volunteers. Best display at Audubon Assembly: Duval Audubon Society An effective display is one that gets people to stop and look, and perhaps join the chapter. Duval Audubon, with its mini monster truck and cotton-ball nesting birds on a bed of sand, illustrated the chapter’s primary conservation project, Bird Stewards at Huguenot Memorial Park. The creativity and humor inherent in the display hinted at the sense of fun that keeps volunteers engaged in the chapter’s serious conservation work. IN MEMORIAM ERNIE CALDWELL Audubon mourns the November 1 passing of Ernie Caldwell, who served on Audubon of Florida’s board of directors from October Audubon of Florida Staff To email a staff member, use: first initial of first name + last name @ audubon.org 2002 through October 2009. A Polk County For example, the email address of a staff member named Red Knot would be [email protected]. Commissioner from 1978-1990, he was appointed to the Non-Mandatory Reclamation Audubon of Florida State Office Tavernier Science Center Southwest Florida Commission by governors Lawton Chiles, Bob 444 Brickell Avenue, Suite 850 115 Indian Mound Trail Collier Audubon Policy Office Graham, and Bob Martinez. He served on Miami, FL 33131 Tavernier, FL 33070 Brad Cornell, the Governor's Commission for Everglades 305-371-6399 305-852-5092 Big Cypress Ecosystem Restoration and the Future Farmers of Eric Draper, Jerome Lorenz, Ph.D., Policy Associate Acting Executive Director / America Foundation. In 1996, Caldwell State Director of Research Collier County Audubon Society Policy Director Peter Frezza 1020 8th Ave. South, Suite 2 achieved “First in the Nation” status from the Susan Fortunow, Research Manager Everglades Region Naples, FL 34102 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and in State Administration Manager Michael Bush, Field Technician 239-643-7822 1999 the EPA named him an Environmental Michelle Frankel, Ph.D., Lucille Canavan, Office Manager Director of Foundation Relations & Champion. His lifelong passion for the envi- Luis Canedo, Research Associate Keys Environmental Gov’t Grants Adam Chasey, Field Technisian Restoration Fund ronment was an inspiration to all who knew Julie Hill Gabriel, Christian Chauvin, Field Technician Jeanette Hobbs, Manager him, and he will be greatly missed. Everglades Policy Associate Karen Dyer, Research Associate 11399 Overseas Highway, Suite 4E Vicky Johnston, Greg Ellis, Biologist Marathon, FL 33050 Development Associate David Green, Analyst 305-289-9988 Wendy Martinez, Shawn Liston, Ph.D., Contracts & Payables Cood. Research Manager SW Region Audubon Center for Birds of Prey John Ogden, Michelle Robinson, Biologist 1101 Audubon Way Cornell receives Director of Bird Conservation Erin Woods, Maitland, FL 32751 Lisa Reichert, Field Technician 407-644-0190 / 407-539-5700 Administrative Assistant sustainability award Katie Gill Warner, Traci Romine, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Center Administrator Florida Communications and Brad Cornell was honored with a 2009 375 Sanctuary Road West Charles Lee, Director of Advocacy Climate Campaign Director Naples, FL 34120 Lynne Flannery, Trailblazer Award from the Urban Land Emoy Suarez, 239-348-9151 Education/ Volunteer Coordinator Institute (ULI) Southwest Florida District State Finance & Budget Manager Ed Carlson, Sanctuary Director Dianna Flynt, Council. A staff member of Collier County Megan Tinsley, Everglades Ecosystem Jason Lauritsen, Assistant Director Rehabilitation Supervisor Audubon Society and Audubon of Florida, Science Coordinator Beth Evans Lott, Jacqueline Weisblum, Lori Piper, Center Administrator Cornell was cited for his personal work Harry Bailey, Building Caretaker Raptor Clinic Technician and long-term commitment to developing Everglades Team Leader Claudia Welsh, Rebecca Beck, Director of Education Jackie Reiser, sustainable environmental policies in Chief Development Officer Karin Becker, Admissions Assoicate Raptor Rehab Technician Southwest Florida. “Brad demonstrates a Steven Corriveau, Samantha Stock, passion and a sustained commitment to be Policy Office Maintenance Supervisor Raptor Clinic Technician involved in issues facing the region,” said 2507 Callaway Road, Suite 103 Paul Gootkin, Lynda White, EagleWatch Coordinator Heather A. Francis on behalf of ULI’s awards Tallahassee, FL 32303 Asst. Nature Center Manager 850-222-2473 Kathryn Haley, Nature Store Lake Okeechobee committee. The ULI is a nonpartisan Sales Associate Watershed Program research and educational institute whose Eric Draper, Acting Executive Director / Mike Knight, Paul Gray, Ph.D., Science Coordinator mission is to provide leadership in the Policy Director Resource Management Specialist Lake Okeechobee Watershed responsible use of land in creating and Brian Chumney, Deborah Lotter, Educator P.O. Box 707 sustaining thriving communities worldwide. Policy Research Assistant Kathleen Rice, Lorida, FL 33857 Jacqueline Sulek, Maintenance Technician 863-655-1831 Chapter Coordinator Mary Short, Nature Store Manager Julie Wraithmell, Sally Stein, Northeast Florida Program Wildlife Policy Coordinator Director of Public Programs Monique Borboen, Financial information about National Allyson Webb, Resource Manager PIMB NE FL Policy Associate Audubon Society can be obtained by writing Florida Coastal Islands Sanctuaries Julia Askey, Sales Associate 9601 Ocean Shore Blvd to us at 225 Varick St., 7th Floor, New York, 410 Ware Blvd., Suite 702 Roger Barry, Admissions Associate St. Augustine, FL 32080 Tampa, FL 33619 Gerald Griggs, Admissions Associate 904-813-5115 New York, 10014 or as stated below: 813-623-6826 Mike Shunney, Admissions Associate NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY FLORIDA Ann Hodgson, Ph.D., Gulf Coast Mary Ann Summeralls, Store Associate REGISTRATION # CH281: A COPY OF THE Ecosystem Science Coordinator Amy Wiggins, Admissions Associate Ann Paul, Tampa Bay Area Regional OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL Coordinator Ahhochee Hill INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE Mark Rachal, Field Biologist Christie Anderberg, Manager DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY 24268 Lake Lindsey Road CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, Brooksville, FL 34601 1-800-HELP-FLA. REGISTRATION DOES NOT 352-797- 3545 IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR REC- OMMENDATIONS BY THE STATE.

Florida Naturalist Winter 2009 / 2010 15 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 3953 MIAMI, FL

444 Brickell Avenue, Suite 850, Miami, Florida 33131 Tel 305 371 6399 Fax 305 371 6398 www.audubonofflorida.org WINTER 2009 / 2010 Florida Naturalist is published by Audubon of Florida. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of Audubon of Florida © 2009. All rights reserved. Acting Executive Director Eric Draper Communications Director Traci Romine Post Production Assistance Vicky Johnston and Lisa K. Reichert Editorial Consultant Susan Cumins Design and Production Franz Franc Design Group Cover Tiger swallowtail on pickerel weed at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary by R. J. Wiley

Audubon’s Mission To conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats, for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity.

AUDUBON ACADEMY 2010 MARCH 26 – 28, 2010 Sandhill crane by Christina Evans. This species is often sighted Paramount Plaza Conference Center, Gainesville, FL in Paynes Prairie Preserve. POSSIBILITIES THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS A great weekend awaits you at the 2010 Audubon Academy in Gainesville. Discover potential part- ners in your community and learn about successful partnership programs in Florida.

Academy workshops will cover plans for wildlife-friendly communities, water issues, chapter tech- nology challenges and makeovers, NAS chapter services, restoring backyard habitats, ecology train- ing for teachers, and ways to engage children. Options for fun include field trips to Paynes Prairie Preserve, a kayak trip on the Ichetucknee River, a visit to a native plant nursery, and a boat trip on the Ocklawaha River. The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Butterfly Rainforest are only minutes from the Paramount Plaza.

Socialize with other chapter leaders, staff, and board members from National Audubon Society and Audubon of Florida. Keynote speakers are Pegeen Hanrahan, Mayor of Gainesville, and bird veteri- narian/researcher LoraKim Joyner.

Registration materials will be posted at www.audubonofflorida.org in early January. For more details, contact Jacqui Sulek, Chapters Coordinator, [email protected], 850-251-1297 or Joyce King, Academy Coordinator, [email protected], 352-475-1999.