Parklife Go Native! Landscaping withNative Plants A MIAMI-DADE PARKS PUBLICATION Issue Green EcoAdventures Your Link totheGreatOutdoors The Through Natural,Culturaland Through Recreational Experiences Enriching Your Life www.miamidade.gov/parks Mar /Apr2008 P a r k s a n d

R e c r e a t i o n We create outstanding recreational, natural and cultural experiences to enrich you and to enhance our community for this and future generations.

Carlos Alvarez, Mayor Board of County Commissioners: Bruno A. Barreiro, Chairman; Barbara J. Jordan, Vice Chairwoman Barbara J. Jordan, District 1; Dorrin D. Rolle, District 2; Audrey M. Edmonson, District 3; Sally A. Heyman, District 4; Bruno A. Barreiro, District 5; Rebeca Sosa, District 6; Carlos A. Gimenez, District 7; Katy Sorenson, District 8; Dennis C. Moss, District 9; Sen. Javier D. Souto, District 10; Joe A. Martinez, District 11; José “Pepe” Diaz, District 12; Natacha Seijas, District 13 Harvey Ruvin, Clerk of Courts; George M. Burgess, County Manager; Robert A. Cuevas Jr., County Attorney

Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department has received accreditation from the Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) of the National Recreation and Park Association.

Call (305) 755-7848 or (305) 755-7980 (TDD) to request materials in accessible format, a sign language interpreter (seven days advance notice required) and for information on access for persons with disabilities.

We are proud to print on Sustainable Forestry Initiative certified paper and with vegetable-based inks. SFI certification ensures that the paper used contains fiber from well-managed and responsibly harvested forests that meet strict environmental and socioeconomic standards. Printed by acgraphics.com, SFI certified Chain-of-Custody #NSC-SFICOC-032. Baby Loggerhead, Sea Turtle Hatchery, Haulover Beach Park VENI, VIDI, VERDE... Parklife

A MIAMI-DADE PARKS PUBLICATION PARKS BY Mar / Apr 2008 THE NUMBERS It is not hard to imagine an carpool. In fact, Parklife is printed on Contents Publisher: organization which began as a tree paper from sustainable forests using Miami-Dade County Park 1 and Recreation Department Acres managed by planting program 80 years ago would vegetable inks further reducing the Mission 13,320Miami-Dade Parks still be committed to efforts that are carbon footprint on the community. Editor: 4 Managing Natural Areas Doris Howe green. In this issue of Parklife, you Content Manager: Percentage of acreage of will read about the programs and But, all this just scratches the 8 A Redland Gem: Castellow Hammock Park Katherine MacDiarmid Miami-Dade Parks that is initiatives of Miami-Dade Parks surface of what we have planned for Graphic Designer: environmentally sensitive 9 Sea Turtle Nesting and Relocation Ruben Perez dedicated to preserving natural the future. Through the Open Space 50or threatened natural 10 Photographer: areas requiring protections areas and providing green spaces Master Plan, new initiatives regarding I am Miami-Dade Parks Peter Dooling and conservation for you and your family to enjoy. building design and construction 12 The New Park and Open Space System Master Plan Public Information Officer: materials will reduce energy and Edith Torres Number of parks managed by However, this commitment reaches water consumption, and serve as 16 Phenomenal Women 259the Miami-Dade County Park beyond just providing beautiful green models for sustainable development Contributors: and Recreation Department 18 The Women’s Park Gladys Adan, Cindy Castelblanco, Jim King, and blue spaces. It is part of the County-wide. The new Open Space Diana Cornely, Brian Cullen, Mia Foster, standard operating procedures of Master Plan envisions connecting 20 Parks in Focus Jane Griffin Dozier, Lisa Fernandez, Number of nature centers Paula Fernandez, Sally Timberlake, 6 the Miami-Dade Parks Department. communities through a public realm Roger Hammer, Angus Laney, Ernie Lynk, located in Miami-Dade Parks 24 Go Native! Landscaping with Native Plants The Marina Division actively recycles of parks, public spaces, natural and Joe Maguire, Esther Reyes, Cathy Ferreira 26 Parks that received 3,700 used oil, oil filters and monofilament cultural areas, greenways, waterways EcoAdventures: Your Link to the Great Outdoors Miami-Dade County Park trees planted as part of fishing line. Administrative offices and streets. These connections will and Recreation Department 42$1.5 million funding from 28 Get Hooked on Kayak Fishing recycle paper and use only paper form a green framework that will Jack Kardys, Director Capital Outlay Reserve Funds with recycled content. Our Kendall enhance the overall quality of life 30 Parks at a Glance W. Howard Gregg, Assistant Director for Planning and Development Warehouse and Shops recycles tires, for residents and visitors, preserve Number of nature preserves 31 Clean Marina Designations Frank Faragalli, Interim Assistant Director managed by Miami-Dade batteries, oil filters, used oil, and and protect parks and open space for Operations 80Parks Natural Areas toner and ink cartridges. Throughout and make Miami-Dade the kind of 32 Haulover Dune Restoration Allison Diego, Assistant Director Management Division the Department, we recycle community where residents want to for Administration 35 Progress Report George Parrado, Assistant Director cardboard, florescent bulbs, turn live, employers want to do business for Recreation Number of volunteer tree trimmings into mulch, and and tourists want to visit. 36 Calendar of Events workdays offered in Parklife 5 March and April to help 48 In Closing T (305) 755-7800 / F (305) 755-7857 restore natural areas in www.miamidade.gov/parks Miami-Dade County Reproduction in whole or in part of Parklife without prior written Marinas operated by permission is strictly prohibited. Miami- Dade Parks that front cover: For questions or comments concerning have received certification Lilypad, Fruit & Spice Park this publication, write to Parklife, 2 of Clean Marina by the Miami-Dade Parks, 275 NW 2nd Street, back cover: Florida Department of 3rd Floor, Miami, FL 33128, images of Miami-Dade Parks phone (305) 755-7800, or email at Environmental Protection photo montage [email protected]. Amid the roadways, traffic jams, parking lots, shopping centers, hit in 1992, it ripped the tops off mature hammock trees, and endless development that is part of our everyday life here in leaving opportunistic exotic vegetation (particularly vines) to South Florida, there lies a part of the landscape that too few spread further into the natural areas. The storm also decimated know: our natural areas. These are the pine rocklands, tropical the canopy species of the Pine Rocklands, the Dade County hardwood hammocks, and coastal and freshwater wetlands slash pine. Yet, what once seemed like a daunting and that contribute to the uniqueness and beauty of this part of the overwhelming task, the restoration of these natural areas by country. Around the turn of the century, when South Florida was NAM has achieved great success. NAM’s restoration efforts experiencing its first of many land booms, pine rocklands spread have received state and national recognition from organizations out in vast expanses over the such as the Florida Chapter of The Miami Rock Ridge, interspersed “The Natural Areas Nature Conservancy and the Florida with island-like hardwood Native Plant Society. hammocks, and sloping (ever so Management Division (NAM) slightly) into seemingly endless of the Miami-Dade County Approximately 5,200 acres of native glades. Sadly and startling, less forest and wetland occur in Miami- than 2% of this County’s original Park & Recreation Dade’s 13,000-acre park system. forests remain, making their Department not only knows This includes 1,007 acres of globally- preservation that much more endangered Pine Rockland and 422 crucial. These natural areas these areas up close and acres of upland hardwood forest, contain numerous rare plant in person, but is responsible including State-endangered rockland species, and are critical to native for restoration and hammock forest. If you’re familiar with wildlife, including migratory birds. management of the County’s the County’s parks, you’ll know that this includes parks such as the The Natural Areas Management 80 nature preserves.” Deering Estate at Cutler, Matheson Division (NAM) of the Miami-Dade Hammock, Larry and Penny County Park & Recreation Department not only knows these Thompson Park, Bill Sadowski Park, and Greynolds Park. by Jane Griffin Dozier areas up close and in person, but is responsible for restoration and management of the County’s 80 nature preserves. Created In addition to managing the natural areas within the County’s in 1990, NAM was expanded greatly after Hurricane Andrew park system, NAM is also responsible for the restoration and devastated southern Miami-Dade County in 1992, severely management of approximately 16,000 acres acquired by the impacting more than 80% of the County’s forest preserves. Miami-Dade County Department of Environmental Resources Management’s Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Prior to Hurricane Andrew, Miami-Dade County’s forests were Program. The EEL Program purchases land from willing sellers, already in serious decline due to the invasion of over 150 and in some cases, has added to existing Parks natural areas. species of exotic (non-native) plants. Exotic plants invade Such is the case with Castellow Hammock, a well-known site natural areas and seriously interfere with the natural processes for bird watchers. Here, the EEL Program has been able to of forest growth by crowding out native plants, and disrupting double the size of the natural area that is now in public ownership. Example of vine coverage on hardwood hammock trees storm recovery and natural fire cycles. When Hurricane Andrew Presently, the EEL Program is the funding source for the majority Photos courtesy of Natural Areas Management Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 5 VOLUNTEER WORKDAYS of land management and restoration activities within the natural which helps eliminate high fuel load buildup and therefore DATE LOCATION ADDRESS DATE LOCATION ADDRESS 3/08/08 Kendall Indian Hammocks 11345 SW 79 St. 4/12/08 Kendall Indian Hammocks 11345 SW 79 St. areas of Miami-Dade County, including areas owned by Parks. decreases the chance of a dangerous wildfire becoming a 9 a.m. - noon (Air-Potato) 9 a.m. - noon (Air-Potato) Both NAM and EEL actively pursue grants to assist with threat to homes, schools and businesses. 3/22/08 Camp Matecumbe Pineland 11400 SW 137 Ave. 4/19/08 Baynanza Various locations – restoration projects and sustain the County’s management funds. 9 a.m. - noon (Cleanup) 9 a.m. - noon (Cleanup) Call 305-372-6784 3/28/08 Ned Glenn Preserve SW 188 St. & 87 Ave. 8 - 11 a.m. (Birding, Nature Walk & Cleanup) In an effort to preserve and manage the many rare plant species For more information 305.257.0933 ext.227 Currently, NAM has more than 50 employees, which includes in these habitats, NAM and EEL work closely in a partnership six field crews, biologists, and a GIS professional. The majority with Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to conduct monitoring and population in NAM’s efforts to instill an awareness of , and mission to preserve, protect, and restore Miami-Dade County’s of work that the field crews do involves the eradication of exotic research at many Parks and EEL sites. Fairchild has initiated rare appreciation for, South Florida’s unique plant communities. unique natural areas. Each participant receives a bit of plants. Loss of natural areas to exotic plant invasion is second plant mapping and monitoring, propagated several extremely rare education, and a sense of contribution and accomplishment only to loss of natural areas to development. Without the plant species and reintroduced them to select natural area sites, toward saving the County’s natural resources. Students can biological “checks and balances” (that is, the natural predators) conducted studies on management techniques and effects, These Volunteer Workdays not only allow the public to even gain community service hours for their time, so the present in their native homelands, there is nothing to stop these and even provided volunteers for special projects involving rare participate in the natural area restoration process, but also to program provides academic incentive to participate as well. exotics from taking over southern Florida’s forests and wetlands. species. Through this partnership, invaluable information has interact with County land managers, thereby becoming better Many volunteers regularly return to these events again and The control of exotic plants is considered one of the most been provided to land managers, and conservation efforts have aware of restoration challenges. Face to face interaction and again. Even if you can’t help out at a workday, visit a park important elements in the management of Miami-Dade’s natural been furthered. shoulder to shoulder participation is undoubtedly one of the with a natural area to experience a bit of South Florida’s habitats. Make no mistake about it --- these exotic plants can best ways to help people understand and support NAM’s beauty, history, and wonder. be relentless! The work that NAM crews do to rid our natural areas of these invaders is extremely labor intensive, and the NAM perseveres in trying to in instill a sense of natural heritage transformations they make happen are often sources of in the County’s citizens, especially among our youth. The forests amazement among land managers. and wetlands of Miami-Dade County are part of who we are as South Floridians. They’re teeming with life, and waiting to be Spencer Davis Group explored. David Fairchild, a noted plant explorer and the man known for such Top 10 hits as “Gimme Some Lovin’,” NAM also has staff trained to assist Florida Division of Forestry for whom Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden was named, once “Somebody Help Me,” “I’m A Man,” and “Keep On Runnin.” personnel on prescribed fires and wildfires that occur on Park said, “How often, alas, book schooling drowns the children who and EEL properties. A prescribed fire is an intentionally-set, love nature, with a Niagara of words and the word is not the closely supervised fire that is ignited only under a specific set of thing...” While NAM certainly does not dismiss book schooling, “prescribed” conditions. Fire is a critical management component this “thing,” nature itself, needs to be experienced. It needs to for some plant communities in South Florida, especially pine be seen, felt, smelled, and heard --- absorbed. Sunday, May 18, 2008 • 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. rocklands. If not for fire, sun-loving pineland plants would Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sally A. Heyman, District 4, and Miami-Dade Parks eventually be replaced by invading native and exotic trees and invite you groovy guys and gals to come crash at our pad for the far out and totally solid GREYNOLDS PARK LOVE-IN shrubs. Eventually, the great diversity of pineland plant species This is a significant reason why NAM initiated a Volunteer Workday Bring the entire family and enjoy: would be reduced, and the wildlife that relies upon pinelands as Program in 1995. Together, NAM and the EEL Program hold Rock Concerts • Beat Poetry • Folk Music • Vintage Volkswagen Bug and Muscle Cars on Display their habitat would vanish. Pineland plants are adapted to fire, several workdays each year. Through these Volunteer Workdays, 60’s-Style Vendors • Kid’s Corner (arts and crafts and fun activities) • Food Vendors and More and some even depend upon fire to aid in seed germination. citizens learn of the importance of native habitats and their Free Admission: After a burn, pineland plants quickly sprout new growth, and restoration, and are given an opportunity to assist in forest and ($6 per vehicle parking fee. Coolers are not allowed.) Greynolds Park 17530 W. Dixie Highway, N. Miami Beach the pineland wildflowers burst into bloom in a beautiful array of park management activities. Volunteers are largely composed of 305-945-3425 • www.greynoldslovein.org colors. There is also a safety advantage in prescribed burning. school groups, scout groups, and church groups, indicating that Call 305-755-7848, or 305-755-7980(TDD) to request materials in accessible format, a sign language interpreter (seven days advance notice required) and for information on access for persons with disabilities. Ideally, prescribed fires are set on a three-to-five year cycle, the program reaches local youth, a critical segment of the

6 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 7 A REDLAND GEM:

by Castellow Roger L. Hammer Hammock Park

In July 1900, James S. Castellow filed a claim A tropical hardwood forest covers most of the ach summer, April to September, Florida beaches host the This summer you can help save these sea creatures by on 160-acres in what is now known as the park, and a half-mile self-guided nature trail largest gathering of nesting sea turtles in the U.S. Sea participating in turtle releases during the height of the hatching Redland Farming District. He began carrying offers visitors a view of the forest interior. E turtles once roamed the oceans by the millions but over season. Since 1980, more than 537,134 endangered sea turtles citrus trees from the town of Cutler, near Over 120 bird species have been reported from the past few centuries, the demand for sea turtle meat, eggs, have been hatched and released through the Miami-Dade Parks Biscayne Bay, to his homestead and became the park, along with 70 species of butterflies. shell, leather, oil and loss of habitat due to urban development Sea Turtle Nesting and Relocation Program. one of the earliest citrus farmers in Florida. A large hummingbird & butterfly garden along the coasts have greatly reduced their numbers. He built a small house out of pines that he graces the front of the park, and has become Sea Turtle Hatchling Release harvested and had milled by Wellington Blood a focal point for visitors with a desire to see Haulover Beach Park Crandon Park Visitors’ Hainlin, whose sawmill was located at the hummingbirds and a wide variety of butterflies. and Nature Center The Sea Turtle Nesting and Relocation Program began after the $5. 9 - 10 p.m. Tue. & Wed. northwest corner of Redland Road and present- 10800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach $5. 8:30 - 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. completion of a comprehensive beach re-nourishment project 30 day Hainlin Mill Drive. Castellow Hammock Park naturalists offer (305) 947-3525 6767 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne a variety of educational classes, including years ago when the Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department (305) 361-6767 Hugh Matheson, Jr., who had purchased the Hummingbird & Butterfly Gardening, instituted a new program to encourage the nesting of the Please make reservations in the property in the 1950s, originally offered to trade Backcountry Fishing Workshop, Outdoor Skills, loggerhead, green and leatherback turtles, three species which beginning of July for presentations and the land for Kendall Wayside Park along US1. Landscaping With Native Plants, and a program had not reproduced successfully on our beaches for decades. releases in July, August and September. Although tempting, one of the early goals of on South Florida owls that corresponds with a Under the close supervision of Miami-Dade Parks’ Beach the Parks Department was to preserve open nighttime walk in the hammock to view Eastern Operations staff, which runs the Turtle Program, the nesting spaces along US1, so the land trade deal was screech owls. Park staff also offers guided rate has gone from 0 nest sites in 1979 to 363 in 2003. refused. The property was later purchased in EcoAdventure tours, which include canoe trips, 1962, which included the tropical hardwood kayak fishing excursions, biking in Everglades forest known by tree snail collectors and National Park, and biking through the historic The staff also supervises all nesting activity along almost 20 botanists as Castellow Hammock. In 1974 Redland Farming District. For children, the park miles of Atlantic beachfront, from beaches on Key Biscayne Castellow Hammock was opened as a offers a summer nature day camp as well as to Golden Beach, where there are nesting areas favored Dade County park and was one of the a weeklong, sleepover EcoAdventure camp. by these ancient creatures. first environmental education centers in Miami-Dade Parks. If you’ve not visited Castellow Hammock Park, you’re missing one of the best-kept secrets The Sea Turtle Nesting and Relocation Program Today, the park is well known to bird and in Miami-Dade Parks. released over 41,000 new baby loggerhead, green and butterfly enthusiasts, botanists, and those leatherback turtles in 1998 making this one of the most who simply enjoy being close to nature. And efficient conservation efforts of its kind in Florida. This because the park is such a supreme place to CASTELLOW HAMMOCK PARK see birds, it is included as a destination along 22301 SW 162 Avenue achievement is a victory over egg poaching by humans and the 2000-mile Great Florida Birding Trail Miami, FL 33170 animals, destruction of native habitat, and the constant established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife (305) 242-7688 disturbance of bright night lights which disorient the hatchlings Loggerhead Sea Turtle Hatchling (evaluated) The term evaluated refers hatchlings dug out Conservation Commission. [email protected] and draw them to populated street areas, where they soon perish. of a nest being evaluated for the success rate.

8 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 I am Miami-Dade Parks

“...In the end we will conserve only what we love; Chris Hernandez natural spaces within the community. Sierra Club and helped establish we will love only what we understand; and we will understand wasn’t always While completing his degree in Yosemite National Park, John James the active Environmental Studies at Florida Audubon who documented the Birds of only what we are taught.” outdoorsman International University, he worked North America in paintings, and Marjory he is today. It as a field educator at the Everglades Stoneman Douglas, among others. wasn’t until a Education Center for the Audubon These were people that not only made friend in high Society of Florida, the state office of observations on nature, but fought long school convinced him to attend some the National Audubon Society. hard battles to conserve and preserve environmental events that he was the natural world. Nowadays, a naturalist introduced to the natural side of Miami. In March of 2003, Hernandez joined is becoming a serious profession with One of the first events in which he Miami-Dade Parks as a Naturalist for corresponding training and certification participated was a volunteer clean-up courses in interpretation. A naturalist day offered through Miami-Dade Parks takes what is intangible in the natural Natural Areas Management Division. world and makes it alive for people.” “We were removing invasive exotics plants from the hardwood hammock in Hernandez says the key to becoming a Matheson Hammock Park,” said skilled naturalist is to become actively Hernandez. “I remember walking into involved in the natural world. “Read all that hammock for the first time and it you can and become a careful observer feeling surreal. I felt as if I had stepped of nature. A background in science, into a storybook. I never had been history, or teaching won’t hurt either.” exposed up until that point to the natural But for me, there is a saying that sums it world. The smells, sights, sounds of that up the best: In the end we will conserve forest were incredible. I knew from that EcoAdventures, a program that offers only what we love; we will love only what moment on that I had to do whatever it naturalist-guided excursions for nature we understand; and we will understand took to help protect this magical place lovers and sports enthusiasts that only what we are taught.” and to have other people experience combine adventure, recreation, natural what I had experienced that day. It was history and the opportunity to connect there that I started learning about these with the natural environment. You may places, becoming familiar with the flora be asking, what exactly is a naturalist? I am Miami-Dade Parks is a recurring article and fauna, and also learning about the “I always tell kids that anyone can that will highlight volunteers, history of these lands.” be a naturalist. It’s not someone who staff and participants in our necessarily has scientific training,” stated recreational, natural This experience spurred him on to learn Hernandez. “Some of the earliest and cultural programs. Chris Hernandez at Greynolds Park more about the environment and the naturalists were John Muir who founded

Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 11 Miami-Dade County is one of the most vibrant regions in community where every person feels connected to and inspired the United States with international business, an active arts by public places they inhabit everyday. THE NEW PARK community, a tropical climate and a landscape that includes beaches, the Everglades, Pine Rocklands and Biscayne Bay. With all that is beautiful and lush in this region, making it a great The new Park and Open Space System Master Plan began with place to live, there are also livability challenges. Miami-Dade the first Great Park Summit 2006 when the Miami-Dade County County is facing the same population growth issues as many community engaged in a dialogue about creating a sustainable other metropolitan areas, a diminished quality of life, increased South Florida through the lens of a park system. Over 400 people congestion, declining recreation and conservation open space, visual blight, limited transportation options and social inequities. “IMAGINE A MIAMI-DADE COUNTY WHERE With the population expected to increase by three million YOU COULD WALK OR RIDE YOUR BIKE residents in the year 2025 and up to 4.5 million by 2060, additional pressure will be placed on an already stressed ON A TREE-LINED SIDEWALK SAFELY physical, social and economic environment. FROM YOUR HOME TO A LOCAL PARK TO EVERYDAY ERRANDS TO WORK TO AND OPEN Archives photos from The Park and Open Space System Master Plan envisions that A CAFÉ FOR DINNER WITH FRIENDS Miami-Dade Parks great parks, public spaces, natural and cultural areas, streets, AND BACK HOME AGAIN. greenways, blueways, and trails can form the framework for a more livable and sustainable community. Imagine a Miami-Dade IMAGINE A PARK LIFE”. County where you could walk or ride your bike on a tree-lined sidewalk safely from your home to a local park to everyday attended the event and left with an inspiring call to action for errands to work to a café for dinner with friends and back home innovative stewardship of South Florida’s public realm. The plan again. Such a plan cannot be considered as an isolated system, envisions connecting communities through the public realm of but one that is integrated into the overall fabric of the community parks, public spaces, natural and cultural areas, greenways, and one that will create the kind of place where residents want waterways and streets. These connections will form a green to live, employers want to do business, and tourists want to visit. framework that will enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors, preserve and protect parks and open space, and SPACE SYSTEM achieve a strong position in the local economy. Since the last Open Space Master Plan in 1969, Miami-Dade County has developed and managed over 12,000 acres of designed green space and natural areas that include places with The Miami-Dade County Park and Recreation Department will everything from playgrounds to ball fields to cultural centers to unveil the new Park and Open Space System Master Plan at the protected areas. Forty years ago, our parks were built for car- second Great Park Summit March 14, 2008. This plan will guide dependent populations and suburban sprawl. Over the years, the development of a green infrastructure which refers to a development patterns changed due to a growing population, the network of connected, high quality, multifunctional open spaces, advancement of smart growth and new urbanism policies. To corridors and the links in between that provide multiple benefits help address these challenges, the Miami-Dade County Park and to people and wildlife. The Miami-Dade County Park and Recreation Department has developed a new Park and Open Recreation Department is excited to say that we are doing Space System Master Plan establishing a policy framework to our best to create a more livable, accessible and beautiful MASTER PLAN guide future park system development and stewardship for the public realm for the future of Miami-Dade County where next fifty to one-hundred years. This plan is about developing a parks are an integral part of your life.

Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 13 March 13 14 THE PRINCIPLES BEHIND THE PARK AND OPEN SPACE SYSTEM MASTER PLAN &

EQUITY: Every resident should be able to enjoy the same MULTIPLE BENEFITS: Every single public action quality of public facilities and services regardless of income, should generate multiple public benefits to maximize age, race, ability, or geographic location. taxpayer dollars. ACCESS: Every Resident should be able to safely SEAMLESSNESS: Every element of the County, including Great Park and comfortably walk, bike, drive and/or ride transit neighborhoods, parks, natural areas, streets, civic centers from their home to work, school, parks, shopping and and commercial areas, should be connected without regard community facilities. to jurisdiction. This two-day event marks the completion of BEAUTY: Every public space, including streets, parks, SUSTAINABILITY: Every action and improvement of the the planning process for the new Park and Summit plazas and civic buildings should be designed to be as Park System, including facilities, programs, operations, and Open Space System Master Plan, which will aesthetically pleasing as possible, and to complement management should contribute to the economic, social and redefine the role of parks and open spaces the natural and cultural landscape. environmental prosperity of the County. and provide a framework for a sustainable 2008 future for South Florida.

Mayor Carlos Alvarez will host a Mayorsʼ Dinner On February 1, in conjunction with TREE PLANTING at the Deering Estate at Cutler on the evening of by Edith Torres Senator Javier Souto and members of the Wireless March 13 for the presentation of the South During the summer months, the staff of Miami-Dade Parks Wireless Miami-Dade Steering Committee, Florida Park Coalition Charter. The Mayors and was busy planting over 3,700 trees of varying species, from Mayor Carlos Alvarez launched the Wireless flowering trees, to many native, sturdy trees such as live Park Directors from all 35 municipalities will Miami-Dade Pilot Project at Tropical Park. Miami oak, adding much-needed tree canopy to South Florida and come together to learn how they can collaborate helping to restore some of the tree loss from the 2005 The six- month pilot project, sponsored by Nortel, to achieve the common goal of a more livable hurricane season. With $1.5 million in funding from Capital offers free wireless internet service. In the Outlay Reserve Funds, approved by the Board of County and sustainable South Florida. This charter will coming weeks, three additional Miami-Dade Commission at the start of the 2007 fiscal year, Miami-Dade promote greater city, county and federal Parks has been able to provide substantial tree plantings at County regional parks, with the assistance of collaboration and coordination, as well as help 42 park sites countywide changing the very look of many of additional vendors, will begin to offer free wireless these parks to a more beautiful and inviting place for people us move toward the common goal of seamless service. They include Tamiami Park (Motorola), to gather and meet nature itself. stewardship of public space in South Florida. Goulds Park (Wialan) and Amelia Earhart Park The tree plantings keep in line with the goals of the new Park (Cisco). The Wireless Miami-Dade Pilot Project is and Open Space System Master Plan which uses trees as the first of its kind in Miami-Dade County. Internet On March 14, the Great Park Summit will tools to enhance a community and make it a more sustainable, livable environment for the people that live there. access at wireless parks are complemented by bring together elected officials, governmental several Park and Recreation programs that offer administrators, environmental organizations, The parks that have received the trees vary in size and a wide range of community classes, workshops patrons of the arts, architecture and landscape location, from just under an acre to as large as 40 acres and include: Ives Estates, Biscayne Gardens, Broadmoor, Gwen and special events. At each of the four parks, architecture firms, and scholars at Fairchild Cherry, Jefferson Reaves, Rocky Creek, Olinda, Highland residents and visitors can acquire Tropical Botanic Garden to share an Oaks, East Greynolds, Haulover, A.D. Barnes, Brothers to the wireless connectivity within the park’s inspirational vision for a livable South Florida Rescue, San Jacinto, Sunset, Snapper Creek, Crandon, R. Hardy Matheson, Naranja Lakes, Biscado, Palmland, Arvida, Wireless Internet Zone. through lectures, panel discussions and Continental, Deering Estate at Cutler, Chuck Pezoldt, Bailes exhibitions. National leaders in public space Road, Homestead Bayfront, Kings Grant, Women’s Park, For more information visit advocacy will guide our discussions of how Ruben Dario, McMillan, Kendall Soccer, Southern Estates, http://www.miamidade.gov/mayor/wireless.asp Tamiami, Wild Lime, Westwind Lakes, Kendall Green, Lago our park system can be a catalyst for a greener, Mar, Tamiami Canal, North Trail, Country Lake, Country . healthier, more economically vibrant community. Club of Miami (South), Amelia Earhart.

14 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks by Lisa Fernandez

For 20 years, men and women throughout Miami- exemplified Professional Development, Community presentation of awards. Eight awards will be given Dade County have gathered to honor and recognize Responsibility, Leadership and Vision, Contribution to recognize the accomplishments of women in all local outstanding women at the annual In the to Women’s Progress, Promotion of Pluralism. careers. The awards include Outstanding Woman in Company of Women celebration which has received the following areas: Arts and Entertainment, Business national recognition from the National Association of and Economics, Communications and Literature, This year, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez will Counties and the Southern Region of the U.S. Civil Education and Research, Government and Law, Health recognize outstanding women leaders with the Mayor’s Rights Commission. Over the years, the event has and Human Services, Science and Technology, and Pioneer and Rising Star Awards. The Pioneer Award honored such women pioneers as Marjory Stoneman Sports and Athletics. will honor a woman who has proven leadership and Douglas, Gloria Estefan and Celia Cruz. dedication to Miami-Dade County for at least 20 years. The Rising Star Award will honor a woman who has On Wednesday, March 5, men and women will gather demonstrated creativity and vision in addressing again at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens to recognize Spurred from a need to honor women from diverse community issues within the past five years. the women who have made great strides within backgrounds during a tumultuous time in Miami-Dade Miami-Dade County to improve our quality of life County and to help bring about unity within the and better our communities. community, In the Company of Women was established The evening of celebration features a cocktail hour to celebrate all women in Miami-Dade County who have with hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and the In the Company of Women

“Over the years, Wednesday, March 5, 2008 the event has honored 6:30 – 9 PM Vizcaya Museum and Gardens such women pioneers as 3251 South Miami Avenue

Marjory Stoneman Douglas, $50 per person Gloria Estefan and For more information: Celia Cruz.” (305) 480-1717

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, In The Company of Women The March 15 – April 6, 2008 REFLECTIONS ON MARJORY Arts enrichment at the park offers STONEMAN DOUGLAS a diversity of programming that Opening Reception: Saturday, March 15, 10am-5pm includes visual art classes, art and Women’s Park Free and open to the public. music appreciation, dance and by Lisa Fernandez Reflections on Marjory Stoneman movement, literature, crafts and other Dedicated in 1992, The Women’s Park Douglas will explore the tireless efforts of Marjory Stoneman Douglas cultural activities. The Women’s Park began as the dream of pioneer feminist to protect the environment. provides hands-on classes and social new fence to surround the park with activities for senior citizens every Roxcy O’Neal Bolton, who envisioned a the side facing West Flagler Street April 11 – May 25, 2008 Thursday with the exception of featuring a site-specific art fence Images of Empowerment Exhibit 2007, park and history gallery in honor of all the the holiday season and summer. Roxcy O’Neal Bolton Women’s History Gallery created by artist Lydia Rubio in IMAGES OF EMPOWERMENT women of Miami-Dade County and their Museum of Contemporary Art’s Participants can enjoy early morning partnership with Miami-Dade Women on the Rise! program yoga on the Hon. Carrie contributions to our community. County Art in Public Places. Artwork by participants from the Meek Terrace overlooking Museum of Contemporary Art’s THE ROXCY O’NEAL BOLTON nationally acclaimed outreach the park’s lake, learn how to WOMEN’S HISTORY GALLERY In the early 1990’s a broad-based The Roxcy O’Neal Bolton Women’s Beginning in April of 2008, a series program for at-risk teenage girls, draw and paint, join in on a Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 10AM - 8PM and coalition of women leaders lobbied History Gallery at the Women’s Park of programs and events under the Women on the Rise! will be featured musical sing-a-long or just Saturday – Monday, 10AM - 5PM for the creation of the park. Then is a 6,000-square foot facility that umbrella of In the Company of Women in a special exhibition entitled 10251 West Flagler Street Images of Empowerment. relax while playing a game Miami-Dade County Mayor, the late opened November 4, 2000 with have been developed to continue (305) 480-1717 of dominoes with friends. Stephen P. Clark, gave his support, funding from the Safe Neighborhood celebrating women throughout the and the County Commission Parks Bond program and Quality year. As part of programming, the unanimously approved the resolution Neighborhoods Improvement Women’s Park has developed an creating the park in June 1992 and a Program and houses the Ileana Ros- exhibition series in partnership with committee was formed to direct the Lehtinen Hall, the Molly Turner Media local institutions such as Museum of park’s development. The 15-acre Room, and the Bonnie Lano Contemporary Art North Miami, New lakeside park features a picnic Rippingille Rotunda. World School of the Arts, Miami Dade pavilion, the Leona Ferguson Cooper Public Schools, and the Women’s children’s playground and a time Recently the park has completed a History Coalition presented in the capsule to be opened in 2025. walking path which circles the entire Roxcy O’Neal Bolton Women’s History The time capsule contains historical perimeter of the lake and new Gallery which allows the community to materials from three prominent benches and picnic tables with grills reflect on the contributions of women. women of Florida: author Zora have been added. A partnership Other programs include a women’s Neale Hurston, anthropologist Lydia with the Girls Scouts will include an health fair, an ongoing educational Cabrera, and environmentalist ongoing gardening project for patrons partnership with Miami Dade Public Marjory Stoneman Douglas. to enjoy. Also in the works is a brand Schools Ancestral Voices program, Women’s History Coalition and Florida FOUNDERS International University’s Women’s Honorable Bonnie Lano Rippingille Leona Cooper State Rep. Elaine Gordon Roxcy O’Neal Bolton Monna Lighte Helen Miller Studies Center, and a series of events Molly Turner Katherine Fernandez Rundle Dr. Patricia Clements that will lead up to In the Company of Diane Brant Dorothy Jenkins Fields Teresa Zorrilla Clark Women Silvia Unzueta* Colette McCurdy-Jackson* which honors the women of *HONORARY MEMBERS Miami-Dade County.

18 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 19 Bear Cut Preserve, Crandon Park Parks in Focus

Photography by Peter Dooling

Aerial View, Biscayne Bay

Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 21 Zebra Winged Butterfly, Fruit & Spice Park

Papaya Tree, Fruit & Spice Park

EcoAdventures Camp, Greynolds Park Baby Alligator, Miami Metrozoo by Jane Griffin Dozier

WHAT ON EARTH?! throughout Florida, and throughout your yard; 2) conserving resources satinleaf, dahoon holly, beautyberry, Remember that pretty little vine that all of the United States, local, state, such as water because they firebush, wild coffee, or locustberry.

you planted to trellis up the side of and federal governments are Locustberry require little or no water once Then keep a lookout for smaller your fence, and then it suddenly spending millions of dollars annually established; 3) saving you time birds, such as warblers, especially grew into a plant of gargantuan to fight invasive exotics in efforts to and money because they during Spring and Fall migrations. proportion, and began taking over save our natural areas. In fact, loss require less maintenance; and your yard? Yes, well, chances are it of native plant species to invasive 4) promoting biodiversity. A great advantage of native plants American Beautyberry was an exotic (non-native) species. exotics is second only to loss of is that they are already adapted to While many of the non-native plant native plant species to direct habitat There are many choices for Florida’s climate. Once established, species that make their way to destruction (such as bulldozing attracting wildlife to your yard. If native plants require little water, South Florida can live here without areas for housing developments, you’re especially fond of butterflies, and in fact, little maintenance at all. Marlberry causing trouble, others run amok, shopping centers, roadways, make sure you have larval host (Think of the time you spend mowing eventually wreaking havoc on our agriculture, etc.). plants in your yard for those and fertilizing a lawn.) In our current natural areas as they try to out- caterpillars. For example, the situation, with drought conditions compete native species. They have WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP? caterpillars of Julias, Zebra in much of the state, and water Bahama Wild Coffee no natural enemies here, so there Go native!!! So, what is a native Longwings, and Gulf Fritillaries restrictions being increased, is nothing to control their growth. plant species? A plant is considered feed on corkystem passionflower. it makes perfect ecological and a native of Florida if its natural Caterpillars of the Atala butterfly feed economical sense to go native. According to the Florida Exotic

range included Florida at the time Paradise Tree on coontie, which is a cycad. The Pest Plant Council, an exotic plant of European contact (about 1500 larval host plant for the Common species is one that was introduced A.D.). According to the Institute Buckeye butterfly is wild petunia. to Florida, either purposefully or There are local nurseries that specialize in for Regional Conservation, South Bahama Senna, with its bright native plants and can help you make good accidentally, from outside its native Florida is one of the most biologically Bahama Senna yellow flowers, is the larval host plant choices for your home landscaping. In addition, range. If that exotic becomes diverse regions in North America. for Orange-barred and Cloudless some organizations such as the Florida Native naturalized and begins expanding In Miami-Dade County alone, Sulphur butterflies. You should also Plant Society and Tropical Audubon hold special plant sale events. You can find out much on its own into Florida’s native plant there are over 1,000 native plants. Shiny-Leafed Wild Coffee have nectar plants for the butterflies, more information about native plants and communities, it’s considered an However, when all plants that are such as firebush or blue porterweed. where to find them (so you can start putting invasive exotic species. Unfortunately, present here are taken into account, them in), as well as what plants are considered this has happened in South Florida about 1/3 of the plants growing here Birds like to have good cover, both in invasive exotics (so you can start yanking them out), at the following websites: to the detriment of our native in South Florida are non-native. trees and in shrubs. Many of these Firebush natural areas, such as pine rocklands plants provide fruits for the birds as  http://dade.fnpschapters.org and tropical hardwood hammocks.  www.regionalconservation.org Native plant species are the best well. Try planting paradise tree, (Take a look at Here in Miami-Dade County, choices for 1) attracting wildlife to Simpson stopper, white stopper, “Natives for Your Neighborhood.”)  www.tropicalaudubon.org 24 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008  www.fleppc.org ECOADVENTURES Your Link To The Great Outdoors

Miami-Dade Parks Department’s EcoAdventures offers As part of the mission of EcoAdventures, participants learn outdoor recreation fun! Through EcoAdventures you can and experience the principles of “Leave No Trace,” a take part in activities that will help you learn new outdoor national and international wilderness conservation ethic skills; learn about the South Florida environment and the developed by the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service need to be responsible stewards of the great outdoors. and the National Outdoor Leadership School. Its purpose is to teach those who love the outdoors techniques of EcoAdventures offers outdoor fieldtrips tailored to all abilities reducing their impact on natural areas and enhancing and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned nature explorer, their experience. or a novice with a desire to learn, EcoAdventures can help you determine which programs will be best suited for you. If you prefer to learn new skills through classroom experiences, EcoAdventures provides educational programs Go on a wildflower walk in the Everglades, kayak offshore on Backcountry Fishing, Outdoor Skills for Women, Key Biscayne, canoe quiet backwaters, backpack into Hummingbird & Butterfly Gardening, Landscaping with remote wilderness areas, camp overnight at pristine Native Plants, and Exploring the Everglades. backcountry campsites, enjoy a day of kayak fishing with an expert guide, join a nighttime owl walk, bicycle through For children aged 11-14, EcoAdventures offers a weeklong the Everglades or through the historic Redland, go star sleepover EcoAdventure Camp, where participants will enjoy gazing, or even go snorkeling over a sunken wreck. These birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and are just some of the more popular outdoor adventures other activities with skilled leaders. offered to locals and tourists alike. EcoAdventures also offers team building outdoor experiences for County office So, if you have an adventurous spirit, and would like to see workers who need a day to refresh their spirit and get the real wild side of Miami, contact EcoAdventures and some exercise. begin your own adventure!

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace:

I Plan Ahead and Prepare I Leave What You Find I Travel and Camp on I Minimize Campfire Impacts Durable Surfaces I Respect Wildlife MIAMI-DADE PARKS ECOADVENTURES I Dispose of Waste Properly I Be Considerate of Other Visitors Phone: (305) 365-3018 E-mail: [email protected] EcoAdventures is committed to the principles of Leave No Trace and to providing opportunities to share that Website: www.miamiecoadventures.org Kayaking at Crandon commitment throughout our naturalist guided programs. For more information on Leave No Trace, visit: www.lnt.org. Kayak fishing is the fastest growing segment of fishing in the United States and is being fueled by innovative new kayaks designed with fishermen in mind. With the advent of sit-on-top kayaks, as opposed to the typical “Eskimo-style” sit-inside kayaks, it was only a matter of time before people began to not only fish from kayaks, but rig them specifically for fishing, too.

People are drawn to kayak fishing because it’s fun, simple, healthy, effective, exciting, and a relatively inexpensive way to get out on the water. The exercise

by Roger Hammer

and getting close to nature are key features, but other equipped with two flush-mount rod holders, a advantages are that kayaks are more stealthy than Scotty’s rod holder mounted in front of the paddler, a powerboats, and are even quieter and faster than cushioned seat, and a double-bladed kayak paddle. boats equipped with electric trolling motors. Also, a I have been involved in fishing since I was a young kayak allows you to fish shallow areas that are not boy growing up in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and have accessible by powerboats, and they are quieter in been fishing from kayaks for the past five years. For shallow areas where fish tend to be spookier. the past 20 years I have been teaching a workshop at Castellow Hammock Park on backcountry fishing, which now includes fishing from canoes and kayaks Although there are people who fish from canoes, in South Florida, so the new fishing kayaks have kayaks are faster and more seaworthy, and their added an exciting new realm to the park’s lower profile makes them less affected by wind. EcoAdventures excursions. Fishing kayaks typically come equipped with flush- mount rod holders behind the seat and a shallow well built into the stern for on-deck gear storage. South Florida is the perfect venue for kayak fishing. Most fishing kayaks can be equipped with a foot- Biscayne Bay lies to the east, the vast backcountry controlled rudder, which makes it easier to turn, waters of Everglades National Park are to the west, paddle straight even in a quartering wind, and Photos courtesy and there is Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean as of EcoAdventures useful for controlling drift direction. well. While most kayak fishing in South Florida is conducted in the relatively shallow waters of bays, MIAMI-DADE PARKS ECOADVENTURES In 2006 Castellow Hammock Park received many kayaks are well adapted for trolling for dolphin Monday – Friday, 9AM – 5PM permission to purchase eight Wilderness Systems and billfish offshore along the edge of the Gulf If you have a spirit for adventure and would like to try kayak fishing with Phone: (305) 365-3018 Tarpon 140 fishing kayaks, long considered to be one Stream. Once you see how much fun kayak fishing an expert guide, contact: or [email protected] of the best fishing kayaks on the market. These were can be, you might get hooked. www.miamiecoadventures.org Parks Clean Marina at a Designations by Edith Torres

Glance In the summer of 2007, Pelican Harbor, Herbert Hoover In addition, a crisis management manual was written at Homestead Bayfront Park and Black Point Marinas all for each marina to supplement the marina’s operations received the certification of Clean Marina by the Florida manual. It contains 20 sections that detail incidents that Department of Environmental Protection. The Clean can occur in a marina environment on any given day and Marina Designation is a public recognition by the what to do if an incident occurs. Examples of content Florida Department of Environmental Protection that a include what to do in case of a boating accident, boat facility uses sound environmental measures, encouraging fire, fuel spill and storm threat. Volunteers and Parks staff demonstrate good boating habits and clean water. These three marinas great P.R.I.D.E., Parks and Recreation operated by Miami-Dade Parks’ Marinas Division have Matheson Hammock Marina is in the process of Improving the Delivery of Excellence reached this accomplishment through hard work and completing its requirements and should receive More than 150 volunteers gathered for “Build Day” at cooperation from the marina staff, park staff and patrons. its certification in the fall. West Perrine Park early in the morning on January 16 to build a new playground in one day, manufactured by Stringent regulations instituted by the Florida Department Playworld Systems and courtesy of KaBOOM! and Kraft Black Point Marina of Environmental Protection had to be met to receive the Foods Lunchables, for the children of the West Perrine certification. These regulations included erecting signage community. There were volunteers of all ages from which educated customers on how to properly wash Hands on Miami, AmeriCorps, area schools, the West their boats, fuel the engines and discharge their gray Perrine Park Seniors program, His Loving Hands Day water. Signage was installed to educate marina patrons Care Center, Commissioner Moss’ district office, Miami- on how to properly maintain the public area around Dade County employees, and other local organizations. their vessels, keeping it free from tripping hazards from their electrical chords and wash-down hoses. Trash Build Day was the culmination of two months of receptacles are also placed every 75 feet on each pier. planning, which began on October 9, 2007 when Miami- Homestead Marina Dade Park and Recreation was selected by KaBOOM! and Kraft Foods Lunchables to be one of six national community build projects to receive a new playground. On November 14, 2007, the children from the Miami- Dade Parks West Perrine Park and Colonial Drive Park after-school programs participated in Design Day, where they drew their ideal playgrounds and presented the drawings to KaBOOM!. The drawings were later submitted to Playworld Systems for consideration in the actual design of the playground. Pelican Harbor

30 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 31 (Scaevola taccada). This plant is thickets of exotic Naupaka were EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED undesirable because it shades out removed by crews from Parks We knew that an extremely rare the diverse native flora that should and Recreation’s Natural Areas plant, Curtiss’ Hoarypea (Tephrosia exist on dunes. While our native Management Division. With much angustissima var. curtissii) also Inkberry (Scaevola plumieri) is planning and volunteer assistance occurred in the restoration area. a knee-high shrub, the exotic from the United Way, we staged Thanks to our partners at Fairchild Naupaka forms dense thickets the “All Over Haulover” event on Tropical Botanic Garden, this plant by Joe Maguire more than 15’ tall that obscure August 15, 2002. More than 700 had been surveyed and mapped. ocean views and beach breezes! volunteers installed 4,200 native In 2000, between 40 and 50 plants dune plants on the dunes that had been found. Once the dunes Restoring natural vegetation at had been cleared of exotic were cleared of the exotic Naupaka, Haulover was done in two phases. Naupaka ….. in one day! The by 2004, the number of Curtiss’ IN THE 90 MILE STRETCH FROM MIAMI BEACH TO JUPITER THERE ARE ONLY THREE PARKS WITH MORE THAN 5,000 FEET OF First, in 2002, we selected a 1,600 area dominated by one exotic Hoarypea had exploded to more CONTINUOUS, UNDEVELOPED BEACH FRONT; HAULOVER PARK IN MIAMI-DADE, JOHN U. LLOYD STATE PARK IN BROWARD, AND J.D. foot stretch immediately south of species was replaced with 10 than 1,150 plants! We believe that MACARTHUR STATE PARK IN PALM BEACH COUNTY. HAULOVER WAS MIAMI-DADE’S FOURTH PARK, ESTABLISHED IN 1936. IT HAS 6,900 the existing lifeguard center. The native dune plant species. removal of the Naupaka stimulated FEET OF BEACH FRONT AND DUNES, AND IS HOME TO THE COUNTY’S RENOWNED SEA TURTLE NESTING AND RELOCATION PROGRAM. POPULAR WITH BOATERS, FISHERMEN AND SUNBATHERS, THE PARK ATTRACTS MORE THAN 1,000,000 VISITORS ANNUALLY.

SAND DUNES must be periodically renourished by ALL OVER HAULOVER AFTER photo courtesy of Sand dunes are extremely important man after erosion. The sand dunes Beach and dunes at Haulover were Natural Areas Management in protecting coastlines by buffering at Haulover were created about 25 renourished in the 1980’s, but by land and property from salt water years ago to mimic the natural dune 2000, they needed a make-over. intrusion during storm surges. Dunes system that once occurred on the Unfortunately, Haulover’s dunes had store sand and help replenish sand barrier island in northeast been overtaken by an exotic plant coastlines after erosion events. They Miami-Dade County. from the South Pacific: Naupaka were formed over the course of many hundreds of years. Depending on location, wind and wave forces, BEFORE incredibly diverse systems of dunes, photo courtesy of Natural Areas Management swales, wetlands, and forests formed on Florida’s coastlines. Alas, over the last 100 years, almost all of these natural coastal features have been altered in the favor of development. Historically, Florida’s shoreline was not constrained by bulkheads, jetties, canal cuts, or roads. Because so much of South Florida’s natural shoreline and dunes have been altered, the natural process of dune EXOTIC SCAEVOLA OVERTAKES DUNES recovery after storms cannot occur. The remaining beaches and dunes

32 Hoarypea seeds that had been in the sand for 20 years or more! Th e population of many other native dune plants, such as Beach Star and Bay Bean, also progress report... increased once they were released from the shade of GRAND the nasty Naupaka! Miami-Dade Parks Planning & Development is responsible for all steps in acquiring, developing and OPENING PHASE 2 maintaining the 259 parks in the Department’s inventory. Progress Report is a recurring article that will In 2002, the Department was awarded a grant from feature construction and capital projects occurring in the Miami-Dade Parks system. FESTIVAL the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program to improve beach access corridors and FEATURED PROGRAM March 14, 2008 restore another 2,910 feet of dunes. The project Greenways 7pm – 10pm began in the spring of 2005. In this phase, instead of Miami-Dade Parks currently has funds to develop the removing the exotic Naupaka by hand, we contracted following trails: FREE Miami-Dade Parks is one of the major participants in a Brontosaurus to do the job. The Brontosaurus is a developing greenways in Miami-Dade County. Greenways • Black Creek Trail drum or flail mower attached to the arm of a track are the network of bike paths/trails planned to support Extending from the Black Point Park & Marina to the planned Krome PALMETTO MINI GOLF COURSE hoe. What would have taken weeks for a hand crew, alternative transportation and, for Park & Recreation, Trail, Black Creek Trail will provide access to major Park properties the “Bronto” handled in about four days! including Miami Metrozoo, Larry & Penny Thompson Park and the connectivity between residents and recreation. Greenways planned West Kendall District Park, to the South Dade Government are funded through multiple sources, including local The plants that were installed in Phase 2 were the Center and to other trails such as the South Dade Busway bike path. funding, such as the Building Better Communities (BBC) Approximately $8.2 million of funding is currently programmed for The place to species that thrived in the Phase 1 plantings. Park General Obligation Bond (GOB), and federal funding, development of the trail. staff installed over 9,200 plants in the area cleared by be for fun, such as the Surface Transportation Enhancement the Bronto. Twelve species were used including sea • Biscayne Trail Program. Park & Recreation is currently responsible affordable, oats, beach sunflower, inkberry, wild sage, and saw Extending from Old Cutler Road south to Biscayne National for the development of greenways valued at over palmetto. In both dune restoration areas, crews from Park/Homestead Bayfront Park and west to Everglades National Park, family $23.2 million: GOB funding, programmed over a 15-year Biscayne Trail will connect the County’s two national parks through Natural Areas Management conduct annual follow-up period dating from voter approval in November 2004, Florida City and Homestead. Approximately $4.5 million of funding is entertainment! treatments to prevent the re-establishment of exotic totals over $11.2 million; federal funding, programmed currently programmed for development of the trail. Naupaka and other undesirable plants. over a 5-year period by the Metropolitan Planning • Snake Creek Trail BEACH CLUSTERVINE Organization (MPO) through the Transportation Extending from Oleta River State Park to Dolphins Stadium and future Improvement Program (TIP), totals over $12 million. planned trails to the west, Snake Creek Trail will provide access to Beach Clustervine (Jacquemontia reclinata) was Greynolds Park and connection to Haulover Park, extends through listed as a federally endangered species in 1993. North Miami Beach and Miami Gardens, and includes improvements Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden has been working to the crossing at I-95. Approximately $7.3 million of funding is on the recovery of this rare coastal plant species. currently programmed for the trail. Jacquemontia only exists on coastal dunes from • Ludlam Trail Miami-Dade to West Palm Beach. A key element in 9300 SW 152nd Street Extending from Miami International Airport to Dadeland, Ludlam Trail, Miami, Florida 33157 the recovery plan for Jacquemontia is to establish planned for the Florida East Coast (FEC) Railway alignment, will provide 305.238.2922 new populations of this species on protected dunes access to A.D. “Doug” Barnes Park, and connection to the M-Path. www.golfpalmetto.com in its natural range. Fairchild biologists planted 143 Approximately $2.7 million of funding is currently programmed for (Adjacent to Palmetto Golf Course) and 324 plants in Phase 1 and Phase 2, respectively. development of the trail. Jacquemontia Call 305-755-7848, or 305-755-7980(TDD) to request materials More than 90% of the that were in accessible format, a sign language interpreter (seven days advance notice required) and for information on access for outplanted have survived. persons with disabilities.

34 35 Michael Krop High School. The Youth Ballfield Complex for SWM. The 47.33 acre property is planned to be project is the first major development project at the developed as a Single Purpose Park with a major soccer Park, a former municipal landfill. The project includes a complex. The acquisition was funded from Park Impact large field center, lighted parking, two lighted baseball Fees. Environmental assessment of the property is being fields, one lighted soccer field and walkways. With a initiated, and the Park is expected to enter the planning total budget of $6.4 million funded through the Safe phase during Fiscal Year 2008. The Department will Neighborhood Parks (SNP) Bond Program, Capital work with community and governmental organizations Outlay Reserve funds and Park Impact Fee funds, the to secure the funding needed to develop the Park. The ongoing project provides the first major recreational cost and schedule for development will be identified elements of those planned for the Park. The Park is during the planning process. Additionally, Miami-Dade Parks has future funding of corridor for purchase for development of the Ludlam planned to include an Adult Sports Complex (softball $0.5 million for the Snapper Creek Trail, and is studying Trail, and the high expected cost. and soccer fields), courts (basketball and tennis) and a other needs for trails and will work to partner with the large recreation center. The Youth Ballfield Complex is Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Miami- expected to be dedicated in spring 2008. Dade Public Works Department, Miami-Dade Transit, FEATURED MAJOR CAPITAL PROJECT the MPO, municipalities and community organizations Ives Estate Youth Ballfield Complex to pursue the goal of connecting people and places. Ives Estate Park is an approximately 95-acre District FEATURED PARK ACQUISITION NOTE: The current funding is not sufficient to fully- Park located at 20901 NE 16th Avenue in Commission Miami-Dade County Regional Soccer Park develop the named trails. Impediments to development District 1. The Park is bounded on the north by the are known to exist, such as the availability of the FEC County line, on the east by I-95 and on the west by Dr. Park & Recreation has completed the acquisition of the West Dade Soccer Park. The property was acquired from Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management (SWM), and is located at NW 87th Avenue and NW 62nd Street in Commission District 12. Park & Recreation acquired 33.57 acres, and will also manage 13.76 acres

36 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Jan/Feb 2008 17 38 MAKE PLANS TOATTEND!MAKE PLANS Chairman BrunoBarreiroandtheBoardofCounty Commissioners, Call (305)755-7848or(305)755-7980(TDD)torequestmaterialsinaccessible www.miamicattleshow.com Recreation Department format, asignlanguageinterpreter(sevendaysadvancenoticerequired)and metropolitan marketandthelargestinFlorida. first internationalagricultureand ever takeplaceinMiami,Florida.Heraldedas Miami-Dade CountyMayorCarlosAlvarez, the GatewaytoAmericas,Miami-Dade We cordiallyinviteyoutobeapartofthis Ronald ReaganEquestrianCenter County isaninternationallyrenowned Miami, Florida,USA33155 May 15-18,2008 7900 SW40thStreet for informationonaccesspersonswithdisabilities. at TropicalPark and Miami-DadeCountyPark& exciting event. are honoredtohostthe ateshow cattle to calendar of events calendar of events calendar of events calendar of events     MAR 1,9AM–12PM calendar(305) 235-1668 16701 SW72nd Ave. Deering EstateatCutler South Florida’s earliestbuildings. architectural featuresofsome $5/Children (ages4-14).Discoverthe Free withadmission:$7/Adults; ARCHITECTURE TOUR MAR 1,2PM www.fairchildgarden.org (305) 667-1651ext.3344 10901 OldCutlerRd. Fairchild Tropical BotanicGarden great foodandentertainment. educational lectures,walkingtours, festival with8acresoforchidvendors, See thelasttwodaysofthisfabulous INTERNATIONAL ORCHIDFESTIVAL MAR 1&2 www.fruitandspicepark.org (305) 247-5727 24801 SW187th Ave. Fruit andSpicePark music, dance,andFarEasterncuisine. ofThis festivalfeatures $7 (childrenunder12admittedfree). CULTURE FESTIVAL 19TH ANNUAL ASIAN MAR 1&2,10AM–6PM (305) 235-1668ext.233 events16701 SW72nd Ave. Deering EstateatCutler wildlife forensics. children tothefascinatingfieldof interactive programintroduces annual campregistrationfee. This $30/Child (ages6-10);$10one-time WILDLIFE FORENSICS” CAMP: “SCENEOF A CRIME: SATURDAY MORNINGKID’S Asian crafts,arts, Check theParkswebsiteforaddedeventsandcancellationsorcallpriortoattending.)     (305) 235-1668 16701 SW72nd Ave. Deering EstateatCutler to lifeatnight. the woodsandit’s wildlifeasitcomes $5/Children (ages9-14).Experience Free withadmission:$7/Adults; NITE HIKE (786) 312-4872 7900 SW40thSt. Tropical ParkEquestrainCenter Free tospectators. WHAF HORSESHOW (305) 547-5414 2901 West FlaglerSt. Miami-Dade County Auditorium Arte Grateli Presented bySociedadPro sons, etc. traditional Cubanmusic,boleros, $13 -$36.Enjoyanafternoonof FESTIVAL DELA CANCION www.miamimetrozoo.com (305) 255-5551ext.125 12400 SW152St. Miami MetroZoo grade toparticipate. be atleast6yearsoldandinthefirst 10 andspaceislimited.Childrenmust Pre-registration isrequiredbyMarch effects (providedbyZooanimals)! wilderness, completewithsound on overtoexperienceanightof Pack yourcampinggearandhead CAT-NAP CAMPOUT METROZOO’S BIG MAR 6,7–9PM MAR 3,8AM–9PM MAR 2,3PM MAR 1,6PM–8:30AM (NOTE: Datesandtimesaresubjecttochange. MAR /APR2008    MAR 8,7:30–10:30AM –6PM MAR 7–9,8AM MAR 7,7PM (305) 235-1668 16701 SW72 Ave. Deering Estate perennial andmigratorybirdspecies. the DeeringEstate’s estimated 170 naturalist guideinsearchofsome $5/Children (ages4-14).Joina Free withadmission:$7/Adults; BIRD WALK www.goldcoast-railroad.org (866) 468-7630 12450 SW152ndSt. Gold CoastRailroadMuseum much more! Coloring Activities, Tattoo Boothand Entertainment, ImaginationStation, Train Ridewith Thomas, LiveMusical $18/Person (under2free).25-minute DAY OUTWITHTHOMAS [email protected] Castro at(305)255-5551ext.117 or For moreinformationcontactJoseph encounters andliveentertainment. restaurants, fullopenbars,animal more than35ofMiami’s finest grounds whileenjoyingtastesfrom Beastkeeper tickets.StrolltheZoo $175 forFeastertickets,$500 FEAST WITHTHEBEASTS www.miamidade.gov/parks visit ourwebsiteat  MAR 8, 9 AM – 12 PM  MAR 8, 8 PM / MAR 9, 3 PM  MAR 14 – 16, 8 AM – 6 PM  MAR 15, 10 AM – 2 PM  MAR 15, 8 PM  MAR 20, 8 PM VOLUNTEER WORKDAY GISELLE DAY OUT WITH THOMAS BAMBOO DAY LES ECAILLES DE LA MEMOIRE ONE NIGHT STAND Help contribute toward the restoration $20 - $60. Ballet Etudes and Miami- $18/Person (under 2 free). 25-minute Instructor: Daniel Holmes (THE SCALES OF MEMORY) CABARET SERIES of these unique plant communities. Dade County Auditorium present the Train Ride with Thomas, Live Musical $45. Learn to grow and cultivate URBAN BUSH WOMEN & $5/Person. Mix and mingle with other Kendall Indian Hammocks Park full length production of Giselle with Entertainment, Imagination Station, different varieties of Bamboo and their COMPAGNIE JANT-BI artists, perform and develop your 11345 SW 79th St. guest stars from New York City Ballet Coloring Activities, Tattoo Booth and uses. Includes a tour of the Park’s 70 $5 - $15. Presented in partnership talent, or just sit back, relax and enjoy (305) 257-0933 ext 227 and full corps de ballet. much more! varieties of bamboo, the largest public with Miami-Dade College, the seven the entertainment. Miami-Dade County Auditorium Gold Coast Railroad Museum collection of tropical bamboo in the women of Urban Bush Women and Joseph Caleb Auditorium  MAR 8, 9 AM – 12 PM 2901 West Flagler St. 12450 SW 152nd St. United States. seven men of Jant-Bi collaborate 5400 NW 22nd Ave. SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: (305) 547-5414 (866) 468-7630 Fruit and Spice Park to create a work that views the (305) 636-2350 “IT’S A FISHY WORLD” www.goldcoast-railroad.org 24801 SW 187th Ave. importance of landscapes and how $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time  MAR 9, 8 – 11 AM (305) 247-5727 we internalize them.  MAR 22, 9 AM – 12 PM annual camp registration fee. Children ECOADVENTURES:  MAR 15 – APR 6 www.fruitandspicepark.org Joseph Caleb Auditorium VOLUNTEER WORKDAY will learn all about the biology, life DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER - REFLECTIONS ON MARJORY 5400 NW 22nd Ave. Free. Help contribute toward cycles and natural history of fish. CHICKEN KEY CANOE TOUR STONEMAN DOUGLAS  MAR 15, 10 AM – 12 PM (305) 636-2350 the restoration of these unique Deering Estate at Cutler $25/Adults; $15/Children (ages 9-14). Free. Presented with the Historical BUTTERFLY WALK plant communities. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Canoeists will experience the beauty Museum of South Florida, this exhibit Free with admission – $7/Adults;  MAR 16, 2 – 4 PM Camp Matecumbe Pineland 305-235-1668 ext. 233 of Biscayne Bay as they make their explores the tireless efforts of Marjory $5/Children (ages 4-14). Explore (ARRIVE AT 1:30 PM) 11400 SW 137 Ave. way to Chicken Key Island. Stoneman Douglas. An opening various habitats of the Estate while ECOADVENTURES: DEERING (305) 257-0933 ext 227  MAR 8 – APR 12, Deering Estate at Cutler reception on MAR 15, 10 AM - 5 PM, finding and identifying numerous ESTATE BAY CRUISE ON THE 10 AM – 12 PM (SAT) 16701 SW 72nd Ave. will include readings from Douglas’ butterfly species. PELICAN ISLAND SKIPPER  MAR 22, 10 AM – 12 PM INTRODUCTION TO 305-235-1668 ext. 233 1947 best seller, Deering Estate at Cutler $35/Person. Take a relaxing trip on ECOADVENTURES: DEERING PASTELS CLASS The Everglades: River of Grass. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. the “Pelican Island Skipper” Pontoon ESTATE AT CUTLER - BIKE TOUR $150. Students will learn about the  MAR 10 – APR 14, Roxcy O’Neal Bolton 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Boat and discover South Florida’s $15; $10 ride your own bike. Ride pastel medium, proper materials, and 6 PM – 8 PM (MON) Women’s History Gallery nature and history. Space is limited. along the trails and explore the scenic color analysis. INTRODUCTION TO The Women’s Park  MAR 15, 8 PM Deering Estate at Cutler landscapes while learning about the Deering Estate at Cutler ACRYLICS CLASS 10251 W. Flagler St. DENISSE DE KALAFE IN CONCERT 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Estate’s historic past. Meet at the 16701 SW 72nd Ave. $150. Students will complete two (305) 480-1717 $34 - $75. For the first time in Miami, 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Visitor’s Center at 9:45 a.m. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 acrylic paintings inspired by the natural the Brazilian singer comes to the stage Deering Estate at Cutler surroundings of the Deering Estate.  MAR 15 & 16, 8 AM – 12 AM to present her new record, where she  MAR 17, 10:30 AM 16701 SW 72nd Ave.  MAR 8 / JUN 7 / SEP 13, Deering Estate at Cutler FLORIDA PASO FINO HORSE SHOW intends, in her own words, to serenade MAGIC CITY MONDAY 305-235-1668 ext. 233 10 AM – 5 PM 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Free to spectators. love once again. $3/Child (Chaperones admitted free). PROPAGATION 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Tropical Park Equestrian Center Presented by FUNDarte and This performance features the  MAR 22, 9 AM – 12 PM Instructor: Chris Rollins 7900 SW 40th St. Miami-Dade County Auditorium. PAVAC Players from Miami SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: Fee: $40. Learn the methods utilized  MAR 14, 7 PM – 10 PM (786) 797-5784 Miami-Dade County Auditorium Northwestern High School. “MOSSES ARE PICKY CREATURES” in producing tropical fruit trees: PALMETTO MINI GOLF COURSE 2901 West Flagler St. Joseph Caleb Auditorium $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time how to plant, seed, air layer and graft. GRAND OPENING FESTIVAL  MAR 15, 9 AM – 12 PM (305) 547-5414 5400 NW 22nd Ave. annual camp registration fee. Children Participants will receive a tree to graft Free. Live music & entertainment. SATURDAY MORNING KID’S (305) 636-2350 will explore the dark and wet sections and take home. Power 96, contest & prizes. Fun for CAMP: “FROM SEED TO FRUIT: of the Deering Estate’s natural areas Fruit and Spice Park all ages. PLANT LIFE”  MAR 19, 7 – 11 PM to find these amazing organisms. 24801 SW 187th Ave. 9300 SW 152nd St. $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time ECOADVENTURES: Deering Estate at Cutler (305) 247-5727 (305) 238-2922 annual camp registration fee. DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER - 16701 SW 72nd Ave. www.fruitandspicepark.org Students will learn all about plants, MOONLIGHT CANOE TOUR 305-235-1668 ext. 233 take a short hike through the natural $35/Person (ages 18 and older). areas, and plant a specimen to take Canoeists will enjoy the moonlit home and watch it develop from a beauty of Biscayne Bay as they make seed to a plant. their way to Chicken Key. Deering Estate at Cutler Deering Estate at Cutler 16701 SW 72nd Ave. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 305-235-1668 ext. 233

40 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 41  MAR 22 & 23, 11 AM – 4 PM  MAR 29, 8 PM  MAR 31 – APR 4, 9 AM –  APR 10 – MAY 15,  APR 12 & 13, 8 AM  APR 12 & 13 THE GREAT MIAMI METROZOO LUISA MARIA GÜELL WITH THE 4 PM (EARLY DROP OFF 6:30 – 7:30 PM (SAT) HERITAGE HORSE SHOW “AFFAIR EN PLEIN AIR” – EGG SAFARI FLORIDA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA AND LATE PICK UP IS PILATES Free to spectators. A TWO DAY JURIED ART EVENT It’s a magical day at Miami Metrozoo $13 - $68. Grammy-nominated Luisa AVAILABLE FOR AN $60. Focus on improving flexibility Tropical Park Equestrian Center Free with admission – Adults $7; with continuous egg safaris for kids Maria Güell brings her incredible ADDITIONAL FEE) and strength with controlled 7900 SW 40th St. Children (ages 4-14) $5. The Deering 12 and under at the Picnic and voice and intense soul to perform in SPRING KIDS’ CAMP movements that engage your body (954) 347-1799 Estate at Cutler and the GroveHouse Special Events fields. Other activities Spanish, French and English. $150; One-time $10 annual registration and mind with instructor Celia Maluf. Artists will host a two-day “En Plein Air” include: face painting, arts & crafts, a Miami-Dade County Auditorium fee. The “Spring Nature Adventures” Class size is limited.  APR 12, 9 AM – 12 PM (in the open air) painting event. Artists bounce house, rock climbing, water 2901 West Flagler St. session is a hands-on, interactive day Deering Estate at Cutler VOLUNTEER WORKDAY will be creating their artwork on the tag, Radio Disney AM 990, the Easter (305) 547-5414 camp where children learn about the 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Free. Help contribute toward grounds of the Estate and will submit Bunny and more! natural environment and early South 305-235-1668 ext. 233 the restoration of these unique their works for judging and awards.  MAR 30, 11 AM – 6 PM Florida history. plant communities. Deering Estate at Cutler  MAR 23, 8 – 11 AM 4TH ANNUAL DEERING SEAFOOD Deering Estate at Cutler  APR 11, 7 PM Kendall Indian Hammocks Park 16701 SW 72nd Ave. ECOADVENTURES: FESTIVAL ON THE BAY 16701 SW 72nd Ave. NOCHES TROPICALES FEATURING 11345 SW 79th St. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER - PRESENTED BY GOLDEN 305-235-1668 ext. 233 CARNAVAL DU BRAZIL (305) 257-0933 ext 227 CHICKEN KEY CANOE TOUR RULE SEAFOOD Free.  APR 12 – MAY 17, $25/Adults; $15/Children (ages 9-14). $15/Adults; $5/Children (ages 4-12);  APR 5 & 6, 8 AM – 6 PM Tropical Park  APR 12, 9 AM – 12 PM 10 AM – 12 PM (SAT) Canoeists will experience the beauty Free for Foundation Members. SOUTH FLORIDA REINING 7900 SW 40th St. SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: INTRODUCTION TO of Biscayne Bay as they make their Enjoy Florida’s freshest seafood, HORSE ASSOCIATION (305) 271-0812 “ASTRONOMERS & PLANETS” CLAY SCULPTING way to Chicken Key Island. the magical sights and sounds of Free to spectators. $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time $150. Learn the basic clay Deering Estate at Cutler the Bahamian Junkanoo Band and Tropical Park Equestrian Center  APR 11 – MAY 25, annual camp registration fee. modeling, mold making and 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Prince Dragon, scenic boat rides on 7900 SW 40th St. 10 AM – 5 PM The study of our planet begins with cold casting techniques. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Biscayne Bay, professional cooking (305) 218-2770 IMAGES OF EMPOWERMENT the study of astronomy, which help us Deering Estate at Cutler demos and boundless fun at the Little Free. Artwork by participants from answer several questions about the 16701 SW 72 Ave.  MAR 28, 8 – 11 AM Shrimp Kids Zone.  APR 5, 12, & 19, the Museum of Contemporary Art’s origin of the universe and planet Earth. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 VOLUNTEER WORKDAY Deering Estate at Cutler 10 AM – 2 PM nationally acclaimed outreach program Deering Estate at Cutler Free. Help contribute toward 16701 SW 72nd Ave. ESSENTIALS OF for at-risk girls, Women on the Rise! 16701 SW 72nd Ave.  APR 12 – MAY 17, the restoration of these unique 305-235-1668 ext. 263 BACKYARD HORTICULTURAL will be featured. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 10:30 AM – 12 PM (SAT) plant communities. www.deeringestate.com Instructor: Chris Rollins Roxcy O’Neal Bolton TAI CHI CLASSES Ned Glenn Preserve $25/Session. Part 1: climate soil & Women’s History Gallery  APR 12 – MAY 17, $60. Apply your internal power with SW 188 St. and 87 Ave.  MAR 30 & 31, 11 AM – 11 PM irrigation; Part 2: Pruning, fertilizing, The Women’s Park 10 AM – 12 PM (SAT) slow motion routines that promote (305) 257-0933 ext 227 PASO FINO OWNERS and mulching; Part 3: disease, weed 10251 W. Flagler St. INTRODUCTION TO WATERCOLORS health and longevity with instructor GROUP HORSE SHOW control, insects and chemicals. (305) 480-1717 $150. Learn the basic techniques of J. Morris. Space is limited, advanced  MAR 29, 9 AM – 12 PM Free to spectators. Fruit and Spice Park water colors and paper preparation. registration is required. SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: Tropial Park Equestrian Center 24801 SW 187th Ave.  APR 12, 7:30 – 10:30 AM Observe demonstrations of color use Deering Estate at Cutler “ROCKS & SOIL: GEOLOGY” 7900 SW 40th Ave. (305) 247-5727 BIRD WALK and learn how to achieve glowing 16701 SW 72 Ave. $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time (305) 444-1914 www.fruitandspicepark.org Free with admission: $7/Adults; colors and highlight effects. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 annual camp registration fee. The $5/Children (ages 4-14). Join a Deering Estate at Cutler main focus of this program is to  APR 5, 2 PM naturalist guide in search of some of 16701 SW 72 Ave.  APR 12, 4 PM introduce participants to the different ARCHITECTURE TOUR the Deering Estate’s estimated 170 (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 NEIGHBORHOOD PARK types of rocks, soil formation, Karsts Free with admission: $7/Adults; perennial and migratory bird species. CONCERT SERIES topography and the role limestone $5/Children (ages 4-14). Discover Deering Estate at Cutler Free. Featuring Brenda Alford and plays in our lives. the architectural features of some of 16701 SW 72 Ave. Friends and Othello Molineaux, Deering Estate at Cutler South Florida’s earliest buildings. (305) 235-1668 this concert offers family-friendly 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Deering Estate at Cutler entertainment and activities. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Colonial Drive Park 305-235-1668 10750 SW 156 Ter. (305) 693-6236

42 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008  APR 12, 7 PM  APR 15 – MAY 15,  APR 19, 9 AM – 12 PM  APR 19, 7 PM  APR 26, 10 AM – 12 PM Ongoing Activities MIAMI FC VS. 10 AM – 5 PM SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: MIAMI FC VS. MONTREAL IMPACT ECOADVENTURES: DEERING CHARLESTON BATTERY SOUTH MIAMI MAGNET SCHOOL “MOON & STARS” SOCCER GAME ESTATE AT CUTLER - BIKE TOUR  SATURDAYS, 2 – 5 PM $5 - $25. Soccer game. PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one- $5 - $25. $15; $10 Ride your own bike along GOAL BALL TEAM Tropical Park Stadium Free with admission to the Estate - time annual camp registration fee. Tropical Park Stadium the trails and explore the scenic Free. Sport designed for individuals 7900 SW 40th St. $7/Adults; $5/Children (ages 4-14). Children will learn about the 7900 SW 40th St. landscapes while learning about the with blindness or visual impairments (305) 377-2700 This annual exhibit features work physicality of these bodies through (305) 377-2700 Estate’s historic past. Meet at the interested in participating and learning created by middle school students a series of hands-on activities Visitor’s Center at 9:45 a.m. a team sport.  APR 13, 27, 8 – 11 AM in our community. including arts and crafts projects.  APR 20, 4 – 6 PM Deering Estate at Cutler NFL Yet Center / Gwen Cherry Park Visitor’s Center Deering Estate at Cutler (ARRIVE AT 3:30 PM) 16701 SW 72nd Ave. ECOADVENTURES: 7090 N. W. 22nd Ave. Deering Estate at Cutler 16701 SW 72 Ave. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER - ECOADVENTURES: (305) 380-9106 CHICKEN KEY CANOE TOUR 16701 SW 72 Ave. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 DEERING ESTATE BAY CRUISE ON  APR 26, 9 AM – 12 PM Adults $25; Children (ages 9-14) $15. THE PELICAN ISLAND SKIPPER  DAILY, 10:30 AM & 3 PM Canoeists will experience the beauty  APR 17, 8 PM  APR 19, 9 AM – 12 PM $35/Person. Take a relaxing trip on SATURDAY MORNING KID’S CAMP: DEERING HISTORIC HOUSE TOURS of Biscayne Bay as they make their ONE NIGHT STAND VOLUNTEER WORKDAY the “Pelican Island Skipper” Pontoon “BUTTERFLY EXPEDITION” Free with admission: Adults $7; way to Chicken Key Island. CABARET SERIES Free. Help contribute toward Boat and discover South Florida’s $30/Child (ages 6-10); $10 one-time Children (ages 4-14) $5. This tour Deering Estate at Cutler $5/Person. Mix and mingle with other the restoration of these unique nature and history. annual camp registration fee. The highlights the history surrounding the 16701 SW 72nd Ave. artists, perform and develop your plant communities. Deering Estate at Cutler Deering Estate hosts an amazing Deering Estate at Cutler and the story (305) 235-1668 ext 233 talent, or just sit back, relax and Baynanza 16701 SW 72nd Ave. collection of 48 species of these of Charles Deering. enjoy the entertainment. Various locations 305-235-1668 ext. 233 wonderful insects including some Deering Estate at Cutler  APR 14 – 19 Joseph Caleb Auditorium (305) 372-6784 rare and endangered species. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. 5400 NW 22nd Ave.  APR 21, 7 – 11 PM Deering Estate at Cutler MIAMI HIP HOP ARTS FESTIVAL (305) 235-1668 $5 - $15. This first annual festival (305) 636-2350  APR 19, 10 AM – 12 PM ECOADVENTURES: 16701 SW 72nd Ave. 305-235-1668 ext. 233 highlights and encourages the BUTTERFLY WALK DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER -  DAILY, 12:30 PM positive and artistic merits of Hip Hop  APR 18, 8 PM Free with admission – Adults $7; MOONLIGHT CANOE TOUR NATURAL AREAS TOURS featuring the hottest local and national ORCHESTRA MIAMI EN CONCERTO Children (ages 4-14) $5. Explore $35/Person (ages 18 and older).  APR 26 – MAY 31, Free with admission: Adults $7; Hip Hop artists in theater, spoken WITH NESTOR TORRES various habitats of the Estate while Canoeists will enjoy the moonlit beauty 10 AM – 12 PM (SAT) Children (ages 4-14) $5. Join a word, dance, visual arts, and music. $30 - $60. Orchestra Miami and finding and identifying numerous of Biscayne Bay as they make their INTRODUCTION TO PASTELS CLASS Naturalist Guide and walk in the Joseph Caleb Auditorium Miami-Dade County Auditorium butterfly species. way to Chicken Key. $150. Students will learn about the footsteps of Florida’s first peoples. 5400 NW 22nd Ave. present the talent and artistry of Deering Estate at Cutler Deering Estate at Cutler medium of pastel, appropriate materials Deering Estate at Cutler (305) 636-2350 Miami’s own Latin Grammy 16701 SW 72nd Ave. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. and color analysis. 16701 SW 72nd Ave. winning flautist Nestor Torres. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Deering Estate at Cutler (305) 235-1668  APR 15 – MAY 20, 6 – 7:30 PM Miami-Dade County Auditorium 16701 SW 72nd Ave. (TUE) / APR 16 – MAY 21, 2901 W. Flagler St.  APR 19 & 20, 10 AM – 5 PM  APR 21, 10:30 AM 305-235-1668 ext. 233  SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS, 10 AM – 11:30 AM (WED) (305) 547-5414 HELICONIA PALM MAGIC CITY MONDAY 10 AM – 3 PM YOGA CLASSES AND FLOWER SHOW $3/Child (Chaperones admitted free).  APR 28 – JUN 9 (NO CLASS KAYAK RENTALS $60. Learn how to relax, meditate and  APR 19, 8 AM Admission: $6 (children under 12 This Earth Day celebration will feature ON 5/26), 6 – 8 PM (MON) Adults $10 per hour; Children (ages relieve stress during this six-week WHAF HORSE SHOW admitted free). Large exhibit of Earth Man and the Earth Project. INTRODUCTION TO 9-15) $8 per hour. Minimum 1 hour course with instructor M. Shulman. Free to spectators. Heliconia blossoms on display Joseph Caleb Auditorium ACRYLICS CLASS rental. Includes kayaks, life vests, Class size is limited. Tropical Park Equestrian Center and a multitude of plants for sale. 5400 NW 22nd Ave. $150. Students will complete two paddles and a small dry bag. To rent Deering Estate at Cutler 7900 SW 40th St. Fruit and Spice Park (305) 636-2350 acrylic paintings inspired by the natural a kayak, you must be at least 21 16701 SW 72nd Ave. (786) 312-4872 24801 SW 187th Ave. surroundings of the Deering Estate. years old. People between the ages 305-235-1668 ext. 233 (305) 247-5727  APR 25 – 27 Deering Estate at Cutler of 9 - 20 must be accompanied by an www.fruitandspicepark.org 16701 SW 72nd Ave. WAVE SUPER SHOW adult or a legal guardian in the same 305-235-1668 ext. 233 Haulover Marina kayak. All rentals are subject to 10800 Collins Ave. weather and wind conditions. (305) 947-3525 Deering Estate at Cutler 16701 SW 72nd Ave. (305) 235-1668 ext. 233

44 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 45  DAILY, 9 AM – 4 PM  DAILY, 12:30 PM  DAILY, 9:30 AM – 5 PM  DAILY, 1:30 PM WITH AN  SAT & SUN, 9 AM, 12 PM  SUN, 1 – 4 PM (YEAR-ROUND) NATURAL AREAS TOURS DINOSAUR ENCOUNTERS EXTRA SHOW AT 2:30 PM AND 2 PM ECOADVENTURES: ECOADVENTURES: Free with admission: $7/Adults; View a film showing the link between ON WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS ECOADVENTURES: BEAR CUT CRANDON PARK’S KEY BISCAYNE CRANDON PARK VISITORS AND $5/Children. Join a Naturalist Guide dinosaurs and birds at the Field DIEGO’S DISCOVERY DEN PRESERVE NATURE WALKS BIKE ADVENTURE BISCAYNE NATURE CENTER and walk in the footsteps of Florida’s Research Center, then search for the At the Commercebank Children’s Zoo, $3/Person. Enjoy a leisurely walk $25/Adult, $15/Child (Ages 9-14). $5/Vehicle, $10/Bus. Guided tours first peoples. skeleton of a 40-foot-long carnivorous see Diego in his Discovery Den! along one of the many trails of Bear $20 (Ride your own bike). Explore and educational programs are Deering Estate at Cutler dinosaur in a mock fossil excavation Miami MetroZoo Cut Preserve. Learn about butterflies, beautiful Key Biscayne as you bike offered year round for all ages - 16701 SW 72nd Ave. dig pit. 12400 SW 152 St. birds and the many plant and animal along the streets and scenic paths of from low tide marine beach and (305) 235-1668 Miami MetroZoo (305) 251-0400 species that inhabit the coastal this historic barrier island. We’ll also wading tours, to bird watching, 12400 SW 152 St. www.miamimetrozoo.com environments of South Florida. explore the nature trails of Bill Baggs canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling and  DAILY, 10 AM – 5 PM (305) 251-0400 or Crandon Park Visitors and State Park and enjoy breathtaking bicycling. Visit the center’s exhibit FREE FLIGHT AVIARY www.miamimetrozoo.com  FRI & SAT, 6 PM – 9 AM Biscayne Nature Center views of the Cape Florida Lighthouse. room and aquariums with different Encounter rare and exotic Asian birds (DURING SCHOOL YEAR) 6767 Crandon Blvd. Crandon Park Visitors and recreated underwater habitats. close-up and in free flight. Watch them  10 AM – 5 PM ZOO INN Key Biscyane, (North Beach Entrance) Biscayne Nature Center 6767 Crandon Blvd. build their nests and care for their TOADSTOOL! Bring your youth group, scout troop, (305) 361-6767 ext 112 6767 Crandon Blvd. Key Biscayne, (North Beach Entrance) young at the American Bankers ToadStool features close encounters biology class or adult group to spend Key Biscayne, (North Beach Entrance) (305) 361-6767 Family Aviary, Wings of Asia. with small animals that live in the night! In this sleepover program  SAT, SUN & HOL, (305) 365-3018 Miami MetroZoo naturalistic habitats at the you will have a behind-the-scenes 10 AM – 4 PM  DAILY, 9:30 AM – 12 PM 12400 SW 152 St. Commercebank Children’s Zoo. walking tour of the Zoo after dark and ECOADVENTURES: KAYAK RENTALS  AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST ECOADVENTURES: CRANDON (305) 251-0400 or Miami MetroZoo a special morning activity. Single or 2 Person Kayak: $15/Hr. or ECOADVENTURES: CRANDON PARK’S KAYAK ADVENTURE www.miamimetrozoo.com 12400 SW 152 St. Miami MetroZoo $30/3 Hrs.; Snorkeling Gear Rental: PARK HERITAGE TRAM TOURS $40/Adult, $15/Child (Ages 9-14). (305) 251-0400 12400 SW 152 St. $7/Daily. Fully equipped “sit on top” $2/Adult, $1/Children, minimum 10 Residents: $35/Person, $15/Child  DAILY, 10:30 AM & 2:30 PM www.miamimetrozoo.com (305) 251-0400 ocean kayak rentals and snorkeling people. Reservation Required. Learn (Ages 9-14) Includes snorkeling gear BIRD FEEDINGS www.miamimetrozoo.com equipment available. about the island of Key Biscayne and rental. Kayak along the beautiful Follow the bird keepers for fun and  DAILY, 11 AM – 4 PM 6767 Crandon Blvd. its fascinating history from the Tequesta shallow waters of Key Biscayne and information while they go throughout THE SAMBURU GIRAFFE  SAT, 10 – 11 AM Key Biscyane, (North Beach Entrance) Indians to the pirates and pioneers. explore the protected areas of Bear Cut the aviary feeding the birds at the FEEDING STATION ECOADVENTURES: or Kayak Aquatic Concession located Tram rides also available upon Preserve where land meets the sea. American Bankers Family Aviary, $2. Feed our giraffes delicious veggie ARCH CREEK TRAIL TOURS on the beach southeast of the request for birthday parties, corporate 6767 Crandon Blvd. Wings of Asia. treats like romaine or iceberg lettuce, $3/Person. Join a naturalist guided Crandon Park Visitors and Biscayne events and other special events. Key Biscayne, (North Beach Entrance) Miami MetroZoo kale or collard greens. tour through a Tropical Hardwood Nature Center. 6767 Crandon Blvd. (305) 365-3018 12400 SW 152 St. Miami MetroZoo Hammock where you will find an (305) 361-6767 ext 112 or Key Biscayne, (North Beach Entrance) (305) 251-0400 or 12400 SW 152 St. assortment of interesting plants native (305) 365-3067 (305) 361-6767 ext 112  DAILY, 10:30 AM & 3 PM www.miamimetrozoo.com (305) 251-0400 to South Florida. DEERING HISTORIC TOURS www.miamimetrozoo.com Arch Creek Museum  SUN, 9:30 AM – 1 PM  LAST WED OF EACH Free with admission: $7/Adults;  DAILY, 9:30 AM – 5 PM 1855 NE 135 St. ECOADVENTURES: MONTH, 7:30 PM $5/Children. This tour highlights the INDOOR ACTIVITIES PINE ROCKLAND GUIDED TOUR (305) 944-6111 CRANDON PARK’S BAYSIDE TROPICAL FRUIT & VEGETABLE history surrounding the Deering Observe ducks swimming on top of Walk through this fire-dependent CANOE ADVENTURE SOCIETY OF THE REDLAND Estate at Cutler and the story of and under the water with fish and habitat that the gopher tortoise, great $40/Adult, $15/Child (Ages 7-14). Free tasting table, plant exchange Charles Deering. turtles through the viewing glass of horned owl and the Florida panther call Residents: $25/Person, $15/Child and horticultural library and monthly Deering Estate at Cutler the indoor, air-conditioned home. Learn about the county’s largest (Ages 7-14). Explore this peaceful guest speaker lecturing on tropical 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Observation Center. remnant of the rare native pinelands water wilderness where great blue fruits & vegetables. (305) 235-1668 Miami MetroZoo that exists nowhere else on earth. herons, spotted eagle rays, upside Fruit and Spice Park 12400 SW 152 St. Miami MetroZoo down jellyfish, and green iguanas live 24801 SW 187 Ave. (305) 251-0400 12400 SW 152 St. among the mangrove fringes. (305) 247-5727 www.miamimetrozoo.com (305) 255-5551 Crandon Park Visitors and www.fruitandspicepark.org www.miamimetrozoo.com Biscayne Nature Center 6767 Crandon Blvd. Key Biscayne, (North Beach Entrance) (305) 365-3018

46 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks Parklife Mar/Apr 2008 47  2ND THU OF THE MONTH,  MAY 11  JUN 7 7 PM MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH 5TH ANNUAL BLUE WATER SOUTH DADE GARDEN CLUB Guests can taste appetizing dishes FISHING CLASSIC In existence for 70 years, 55 years at the and desserts, tour the grounds and All six Miami-Dade Parks Marinas. Park, the South Dade Garden Club is an take in the lush natural beauty and A fishing tournament for amateur, opportunity to learn about gardening, grandeur of the Estate. professional and junior fishermen, this and make some new friends. Deering Estate at Cutler annual event attracts anglers from Fruit and Spice Park 16701 SW 72nd Ave. throughout Miami-Dade County and 24801 SW 187 Ave. (305) 235-1668 ext 233 offers cash awards and prizes. (305) 247-5727 www.deeringestate.org (305) 755-7939 www.fruitandspicepark.org  MAY 15 – 18, 10 AM – 5 PM  JUN 14, 10 AM – 1 PM  1ST WED OF THE MONTH, MIAMI INTERNATIONAL MANGO MANIA 7:30 PM AGRICULTURE & CATTLE SHOW Instructor: Chris Rollins REDLAND EVENING HERB SOCIETY $10/Person. Join us as we bring $50/Person. It’s everything you Enjoy learning about herbs and together cattle breeders from North want to know about mangos; how their uses. America, South America and to grow them, their insect and Fruit and Spice Park throughout the world in this first disease problems, recipes, and 24801 SW 187 Ave. annual event. the many varieties. (305) 247-5727 Tropical Park Equestrian Center Fruit and Spice Park www.fruitandspicepark.org 7900 SW 40th St. 24801 SW 187th Ave. (305) 755-7800 (305) 247-5727 Upcoming Events www.miamicattleshow.com www.fruitandspicepark.org

 MAY 3, 10 AM – 5 PM  MAY 16, 17 & 18,  JUN 21, 1 – 3 PM 9 AM – 5 PM HEALTH AND WELLNESS DAY LYCHEE & LONGAN WORKSHOP $6/Person. This event will highlight the REDLAND INTERNATIONAL Instructor: Chris Rollins practical methods utilized to improve ORCHID SHOW $25/Person. Held during the Redland your health and well being. $6/Person. The largest annual orchid Summer Fruit Festival this workshop show in the United States featuring will cover the growing needs, problems, Fruit and Spice Park “We did not inherit the land from 24801 SW 187th Ave. over 50 booths of educational exhibits and different varieties of this revered and orchid vendors. An American Chinese fruit. (305) 247-5727 our fathers, we are borrowing it www.fruitandspicepark.org Orchid Society judged event. Fruit and Spice Park Fruit and Spice Park 24801 SW 187th Ave. from our children.”  MAY 10, 10 AM – 6 PM 24801 SW 187th Ave. (305) 247-5727 (305) 247-5727 www.fruitandspicepark.org – Amish proverb CALABASH VISUAL ARTS FESTIVAL www.fruitandspicepark.org Free. Celebrating the visual arts with  JUN 21 & 22, 10 AM – 5 PM local artists in a day-long event that  MAY 18, 11 AM – 6 PM includes exhibitions, lectures, REDLAND SUMMER workshops, fashion shows and GREYNOLDS PARK LOVE-IN FRUIT FESTIVAL activities for children. FEATURING THE SPENCER $6 (children under 12 admitted free). African Heritage Cultural Arts Center DAVIS GROUP This annual event showcases local 6161 NW 22nd Ave. $6/Car. Take a journey back to the agriculture, tropical fruits and vendor (305) 638-6771 1960s with folk music, beat poetry, booths featuring local wines, food, and classic cars. and rare fruit samplings. Greynolds Park Fruit and Spice Park 17530 W. Dixie Hwy. 24801 SW 187th Ave. (305) 945-3425 (305) 247-5727 www.greynoldslovein.com www.fruitandspicepark.org

48 Parklife www.miamidade.gov/parks