Naturalist Annual Report 2015

Something to Sing About Photo by R.J.Wiley Harnessing the Power of People

2015 Florida Audubon Society Leadership Steve Lynch, Chairman Eric Draper

Executive Director, Audubon Florida Photo By Ralph Arwood Florida Audubon Society President, Florida Audubon Society

Board of Directors Dear Audubon Members & Supporters, Steve Lynch, Chair of the Board Jud Laird, Vice Chair During the Audubon Assembly, where more than 300 local leaders, Audubon directors, West McCann, Board Secretary Michael Sheridan, Board Treasurer and staff gathered to celebrate a good year and set our path for the future, I turned to Eric Draper and asked, “How do we top this?” Lester Abberger Carolyn Antman Jim Brady The Audubon Assembly started with exciting field trips that included students selected David Cox from eight Florida colleges. The students joined us for two days of learning sessions on Jennifer Johnson Duke climate change, engaging people, and taking a stand for Florida’s parks. We know from Dykes Everett Paul Ferber experience that many of these students will stay involved with Audubon Florida’s local Hal Flowers programs as volunteers and perhaps staff. Ann Harwood-Nuss Reid Hughes Alan Keller Eric answered my question by saying that we need to keep investing in people. Audubon Randy LaBauve needs to be the place where students, retirees, and working-age adults can make a José Latour difference through science, advocacy, and habitat stewardship. Charlie Margiotta Heidi McCree Steve Nellis As Florida grows, Audubon needs to grow our capacity. Lida Rodriguez-Taseff Katie Sproul Scott Taylor That means building on citizen science projects like Jay Watch, which measures the breeding Carol Colman Timmis success of endangered Florida Scrub-Jay families. It means putting more bird stewards on Barbara Walker Florida’s shores to guard nesting colonies and educate beach users and boaters. It means Paula Wehr Doug Young deploying scientists to study wading birds and forage fish in the Everglades and other wetlands systems. It means bringing more people to Corkscrew to educate them that swamps are part of vast ecosystems that need protection. Board Members Emeritus: Joe Ambrozy Sandy Batchelor Once we could depend on the state to manage public lands and the wildlife public lands John Elting harbor. Increasingly, legislators and state agencies are turning away from the job of acquiring John Flanigan Joyce King and managing public lands for the benefit of natural systems. Doug Santoni We are mad about Tallahassee diverting Amendment 1 dollars away from buying parkland to paying the salaries of agency heads. We need to get busy.

YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS Cover Photo by R.J. Wiley So over the next year we are going to double down on getting people involved. Not by http://rjwiley.smugmug.com/PRINT on light backgrounds on dark backgrounds complaining about Tallahassee but by planting our feet firmly on places we care about and standard standard

main red gradient bottom PMS 1795C PMS 1815C using that passion to make water and wildlife important to our fellow Floridians. You can C0 M96 Y90 K2 C13 M96 Y81 K54 find our state conservation priorities and ways to get involved at http://fl.audubon.org. white black WHITE BLACK no gradients no gradients StayC0 M0 Y0 K0Connected:C100 M100 Y100 K100 Join Audubon Florida Online Audubon Florida has never had a stronger base of engaged people – and we are making fl.audubon.org watermark watermark a difference. GivetoAudubonFlorida.org fl.audubon.org/signup Thank you. stacked logo (for sharing only) stacked logo (for sharing only) Thank You For Your Service Sincerely, facebook.com/AudubonFlorida Bob Keim twitter.com/AudubonFL youtube.com/AudubonFL Robert S. Stamps, Ph.D. Steve Lynch George Willson Chairman, Audubon Florida Something to Sing About

Eric Draper, Executive Director Audubon Florida

Dear Friends,

In this the best of all Florida seasons, Painting Buntings have migrated from their coastal nesting sites to winter in Central and South Florida. Last month I took friends to see and hear buntings at Fort Clinch State Park, but the birds had already ventured south. So we explored the coastal woods and talked about how important it is to preserve nesting sites.

This is also the season for giving. Your gift to Audubon Florida helps to make sure that we have parks like Fort Clinch where we can see Painted Buntings and enjoy nature with our friends and family. Parks need Audubon science, advocacy, and our feet on the ground.

This special issue of the Audubon Florida Naturalist is titled “Something to Sing About.” Please read through these pages and find the many stories of amazing conservation work taking place all over Florida. Photo by R.J.Wiley

I hope you are inspired to get outside with others and enjoy Florida’s special places. I encourage you to get involved with conservation through your local Audubon chapter or one of our citizen science or habitat stewardship projects.

One project that really has me singing is an island near Naples named Second Chance Sandbar. It happens to be an important shorebird nesting site. As a result of Audubon’s science and conservation efforts, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission designated the island a Critical Wildlife Area in November. Signs will now warn boaters to stay away from the island during nesting season so shorebirds can raise their chicks undisturbed by human and canine intrusion. You can learn more about this important designation on page 9.

That makes me want to sing. With data and determination, we can protect wild areas and give hope to future generations of birds and people.

I am glad to share these stories of our work over the past year. And I hope you will be glad to make a generous end of year contribution to Audubon Florida.

Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

Eric Draper, Executive Director Audubon Florida

PS – Our budget depends on your gifts. Use the envelope to make a year-end contribution to Audubon Florida.

Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida Winter 2015 3 People Powered Conservation “I continue to be inspired by the amazing effort of Florida’s people, who regularly go above and beyond to protect our birds and wildlife.” – Lida Rodriguez-Taseff, Audubon Florida Board of Directors Audubon Jay Watchers Solve Florida Scrub-Jay Mystery in Southwest Florida

Jay Watch volunteers are a dedicated lot. They eagerly travel to some of the most remote and inhospitable scrub habitat to protect our state’s only endemic bird species, the Florida Scrub-Jay. In 2015, a handful of these intrepid citizen scientists went above and beyond to track down a couple of “missing” scrub-jays.

In July, a team of nine Jay Watch citizen scientists were shocked to discover two color- banded Scrub-Jays at the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Little Manatee River Southfork Preserve. Florida Scrub-Jays have never been banded on this property so the finding was extraordinary. Florida Scrub-Jays are sedentary and rarely move more than about 7 kilometers from where they hatched. So when they reported their findings to the other volunteers in this Jay Watch group, the excitement was palpable.

The citizen scientists regrouped for two extra site visits to Southfork Preserve, bush- whacking through overgrown scrub to photograph the banded birds. Photos and sighting records enabled Jay Watch to track down the origin of these two female Scrub-Jays. One was banded on private property about 10 miles away from Southfork and had been Audubon Jay Watch volunteers in the scrub. noted as “missing” for three years prior. The other jay was banded 1.6 miles away and had been “missing” for the past five years.

The dedication of volunteers Pam and Doug DeNeve, Cheryl Merz, Kathy Prophet, Paul Ahnberg and others in tracking down these birds is a testament to their passion for natural Florida. Because of their invaluable work, conservationists and agency decision-makers now have a better understanding of how Florida Scrub-Jays move across landscapes and find isolated scrub patches on which they can settle and raise young. Audubon Advocates Lead the Fight for Florida’s Birds and Wildlife

Advocacy is at the heart of Audubon’s mission. For well over a century our members have been the conservation voice of Florida. Together, we’ve confronted the biggest issues of the day – from fighting the devastating plume trade in the early part of the twentieth century to the monumental Amendment 1 victory in 2014.

And this year was just as active. At dozens of public hearings, in all corners of the state, Audubon members gave their time and lent

Photo by Laura Ciociola. Laura by Photo their voices to protect natural Florida. Advocates spoke up for Gulf Many Audubon members travelled to Tallahassee to make their voices heard during the 2015 Florida Legislative Session. Coast birds at RESTORE meetings, rallied on the steps of the Old Capitol for Amendment 1 funding, made the case for Florida black bears at Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hearings, spoke in public workshops and hearings on behalf of a new Critical Wildlife Area in Collier County, and vigorously defended our state parks at every turn – just to name a few. Advocates also used Audubon Florida’s online email form over 10,000 times to send messages to agency and elected officials about a wide array of important conservation issues.

Your voice matters. And Florida’s birds and wildlife will surely need it again in 2016. Thank you for all that you do.

4 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Bird Stewards Redefine Commitment for Florida’s Coastal Wildlife

Audubon Bird Stewards are the eyes and ears of coastal conservation in Florida. Over 450 volunteers monitored and protected nesting birds at more than 40 beach sites during the 2015 season. Additionally, Audu- bon biologists and wardens worked to post and monitor over 50 more. Colony Watch volunteers helped Wood Storks, Roseate Spoonbills, and other wading birds successfully fledge the next generation. And rooftop colony chick-checkers returned fallen Least Terns to their beaches in the sky.

But what really made 2015 so special are the ways stewards continued to redefine commitment. Not only did volunteers spend their Fourth of July evening protecting birds from impromptu fireworks, but in several places (St. Petersburg, Sarasota, St. Augustine, to name a few), stewards recognized that plans for official fireworks displays would have cata- strophic effects on specific colonies and successfully worked to convince Audubon Bird Steward protecting a nesting area. decision-makers to relocate the events before the holiday.

On Marco Island, many heartsick stewards couldn’t bear to volunteer after Fish Crows systematically decimated a large Black Skimmer and Least Tern Colony. Volunteers were helpless to stop the carnage, as the crows carried off all the eggs and chicks. Thankfully, bird steward Jean Hall was a daily fixture, engaging the public and relentlessly documenting the crows’ impacts— essential evidence in our efforts to address this issue before next season.

In total, Audubon volunteers and staff helped support the following number of birds to fledging in 2015: 500+ Least Terns, 570+ Black Skimmers, 25 American Oystercatchers, 90+ Snowy Plovers, 7,240 Royal Terns, 3,425 Brown Pelicans, 475 Roseate Spoonbills, 70 Reddish Egrets, 1,500 Wood Storks, and 21,000 White Ibises.

Audubon EagleWatch Volunteers Play Important Conservation Role

Bald Eagle nests in Florida are often faced with the threat of encroaching development. EagleWatch volunteers play an impor- tant role in preventing disturbance to nests and nestlings from active construction. They also help keep developers honest.

That was exactly the case on October 14, 2015. Margie Ford, who has been looking out for Florida’s eagles for ten years now, was making her rounds of the four nests she monitors in Manatee County when she saw something she knew wasn’t right. Heavy equipment was being used to clear and grade the land around one of her nests, and if something wasn’t done soon to stop it, the eagles would likely abandon the nest. While monitoring the nest from the public right of way, a representative of the developer approached Margie and explained that they had a permit for their work.

However, Margie’s EagleWatch instincts kicked in. She knew it wasn’t likely for them to have a permit to work that close to the nest during nesting season. After tak- ing photos and video, she forwarded the information to Audubon Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). EagleWatch was able to work with FWC to stop the work, and later confirmed that the developer was not in compliance with their permits.

An informed, proactive volunteer can make all the difference in the world for an eagle pair. Situations like this are a common occurrence all over Florida during the nesting season, highlighting the importance of Audubon EagleWatchers keep a close eye on Florida’s Bald Eagle population. EagleWatch volunteers like Margie, and their role in protecting Florida’s eagles.

Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida Winter 2015 5 Protecting Iconic Florida Species “Florida’s native birds and other wildlife are treasures worth protecting. They enrich our lives in innumerable ways every time we step out the door. A healthy environment is key to our quality of life.” – Barbara Walker, Audubon Florida Board of Directors Big Results for Florida’s Coastal Birds Thanks to Audubon’s New Rooftop Nesting Program Least Terns, Black Skimmers, and Gull- from the National Fish and billed Terns are some of the most iconic Wildlife Foundation. And birds of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Unfor- last winter, Audubon took tunately, their habitat is threatened by the next step in protecting development and human encroachment. rooftop-hatched chicks.

For lack of undisturbed natural beach In late 2014, staff organized habitat, these species are increasingly volunteers and partners to nesting on the flat, gravel rooftops of “chick proof” five of the buildings. While rooftops may be far Panhandle’s most prob- away from crowds and predators on the lematic rooftops. The team Audubon staff and volunteers installed fencing on nesting beach, they are not without peril. Many meticulously added fencing rooftops to prevent chicks from falling to their death. young chicks find themselves wandering along the roof edges and close to the edge of the roof, where they installed mesh screening over While these tenacious little birds have fall off, often to their death. water downspouts. But the question re- other threats to face on these rooftop mained – would the new fencing work? colonies, falling is no longer one of them. Beginning about 15 years ago, Audubon volunteers began returning unharmed Now that the 2015 nesting season is fallen chicks to rooftops and making over, Audubon is proud to report the re- To learn more about how you can get rooftops safer – first in Pinellas County sults. At one site in Panama City Beach, involved with deploying chick fencing, and and then northeast and southwest fewer than 10 Least Tern chicks survived helping chick check rooftops that can’t Florida. In 2014, Audubon expanded in 2014. In 2015, staff and volunteers be secured, please email flconservation@ the “chick checking” work to the documented more than 200 on their audubon.org. Panhandle with Gulf Restoration funds improved rooftop! Nesting Roseate Spoonbills Tell the Story of Florida Bay Roseate Spoonbills – the iconic pink Audubon Florida has been studying birds of the Everglades – are important Roseate Spoonbills in Florida Bay for ecological indicators of how the ecosys- over 75 years. Our science team says tem is handling the changes. Spoonbills the key to reversing this ecological crisis feed on forage fish – small fish that live is speeding up Everglades restoration. and breed in seagrass meadows. Healthy Restoring the flow of freshwater to the seagrasses and lower salinities mean Everglades will help lower the salinity lots of forage fish for spoonbills to feed levels of Florida Bay and allow seagrasses themselves and their chicks. and forage fish to rebound. In turn, this will mean more food for spoonbills and Photo by Mac Stone Mac by Photo Audubon has studied Roseate Spoonbills in Florida Bay for over 75 years. Over the past few decades, canals and other wading birds. other structures drained water away This summer, the Florida Bay ecosystem from Florida Bay. As less water made Audubon scientists continue to study suffered fish kills and seagrass die-offs its way south, the number of nesting these important birds. Our policy in levels that researchers haven’t seen in spoonbills declined. In the last few staff use their data to advocate for the decades. The harmful conditions are the years, less than 400 nests have been restoration efforts needed to repair the result of high salinity levels created by recorded annually in the Bay. ecosystem. Spoonbills tell the story of drought, combined with too little the health of the Bay and Audubon staff freshwater flow discharging into the Bay. are making sure decision-makers are listening to what they have to say. 6 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Good News for Florida Panthers as Audubon Continues Advocacy on Their Behalf Audubon is committed to the recovery In response to objec- of the Florida panther, where less than tions from Audubon 200 individuals remain in the wild. and others, Commis- Throughout 2015, staff and volunteers sioners revised the advocated on behalf of these great cats policy statement in a and the habitat they need for recovery. positive way.

In January, Governor Rick Scott and the In other advances, Florida Cabinet approved the purchase Service Director of 619 acres of panther habitat in the Dan Ashe committed Western Everglades. The property was to increasing their previously slated for home development resources for panther and has been an Audubon priority for recovery efforts. That This photo was taken by a trail cam at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp many years. Known as the Gargiulo includes advancing an Sanctuary in the Everglades. tract, the land offers significant restora- Audubon-supported tion opportunities and will enhance strategy to incentivize Learn more at http://corkscrew.audubon.org. nearby wildlife habitat value. and collaborate with ranchers and large landowners to Another good sign along the road to Unfortunately, over the summer, the manage their land for panthers. Such panther recovery is the Florida Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation financial incentives, along with smart Department of Transportation’s recent Commission released a policy statement land use planning and public education, commitment to extend wildlife to re-prioritize state resources for panther are widely considered key to rural protection fencing and underpasses recovery. The proposed plan would have communities accepting a wide-ranging on Alligator Alley for an additional negatively affected collaboration with carnivore throughout the cat’s former 18 miles. the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service southeastern United States range. (Service) on expanding panthers’ breeding range, an essential part of recovery. Florida Grasshopper Sparrows: Hope for One of the Most Endangered Birds in the United States properties, but the popula- the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State tions on two of the properties Park, Avon Park Air Force Range, and have almost disappeared. private land. This year, for the first time The Three Lakes Wildlife ever, researchers brought seven FGSP Management Area still holds into captivity for breeding. about 55 singing males and about 25 singing FGSP were Audubon’s Dr. Paul Gray works with the found on a private ranch. Grasshopper Sparrow Working Group Sadly, that may be all that has extensive input on these efforts. remain in the wild. Dr. Gray led a sub-committee that FGSP Working Group on a field day at Three Lakes Wildlife developed protocols for law enforcement Management Area. FGSP habitat is very short and very open, Partly through extensive out- to deal with potential predatory visitors which requires frequent prescribed fires. reach by Audubon Florida, (e.g., unscrupulous photographers or including a high-profile tour leaders). Dr. Gray also administers The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Audubon magazine article Audubon’s Ordway-Whittell trust fund (FGSP) is one of the most endangered in 2013, the plight of this bird has that funded three sparrow technicians at birds in the continental United States. been recognized and myriad actions are the Kissimmee Prairie in 2015. But thanks to efforts by Audubon, underway. The Florida Fish and Wild- wildlife agencies and allies, hope may life Conservation Commission is doing Dedication to this bird is the latest be on the horizon. intensive research on the Three Lakes chapter of Audubon’s work on the population. That work is in cooperation prairies, dating to the 1930s. The strongholds for FGSP populations with universities, private research centers, have been on three publicly-owned and Audubon, and includes work on

Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida Winter 2015 7 Defending the Places that Birds Need for Survival “Florida’s birds need people to protect their habitat.” – Charlie Margiotta, Audubon Florida Board of Directors Florida Audubon Society Protects Rare Rookery Island in Terra Ceia Bay It’s not every day that entire islands go on sale on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This is especially true for islands that provide vital habitat to some of our most iconic water birds. That’s why the team at Audubon’s Florida Coastal Islands Sanctuaries jumped at a recent rare opportunity to buy Terra Ceia Little Bird Key in Manatee County.

Little Bird Key is a special mangrove estuary island where Florida birds like Brown Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, Black-crowned Night-Herons, and other Audubon researchers have recorded over 600 nests on Little Bird Key in a single season, including wading birds nest. Audubon research- Roseate Spoonbills (eggs pictured). Photo by Mac Stone. ers have recorded over 600 nests on this vital little island in a single season. Among these donations was one generous gift that came with a special condition Buying this island and making it a Upon hearing the island was up for sale, - that the Florida Audubon Society sanctuary removes the threat of develop- Audubon’s Ann Paul and Mark Rachal Board of Directors name the island ment forever. Audubon looks forward wasted no time in raising the money to the “Ann and Rich Paul Sanctuary” in to protecting and conducting research make it a permanent sanctuary. Contri- honor of Ann Paul & her late husband on this new sanctuary for many years to butions came in from across the globe Rich Paul, the Sanctuary’s former come. to help with the purchase and pay for Director. It is a fitting tribute for true future conservation work in the area. Audubon leaders. Gift by Reid Hughes Saves 200 acres of Marsh Habitat in Nassau County

River Water Manage- Sea level rise, development, and other ment District factors threaten the vast salt marshes of Governing Board. Nassau County. This habitat is vital for both resident bird species and migrants Over the summer, on the Atlantic Flyway, including Reid decided to make Saltmarsh Sparrows, Wood Storks, a gift that will impact ibis, herons, egrets, and many types of the birds of northeast shorebirds. Also found here are MacGil- Florida forever. Thanks livray’s Seaside Sparrows and Worthing- to his leadership, the ton’s Marsh Wrens, a Species of Special Florida Audubon Concern in Florida. Protecting Florida’s birds means protect- Society has added ing their habitat and the ecosystems nearly 200 acres of this pristine marsh- The Sanctuary is a testament to what they rely on for survival. Reid Hughes land in Nassau County to its system of one individual can do to assure the of New Smyrna Beach knows this better wildlife sanctuaries. Audubon will name conservation of Florida’s special places than anyone. Hughes serves as a mem- the new sanctuary the “Reid Hughes and the remarkable species that live there. ber of Audubon’s Board of Directors Marsh Sanctuary” in honor of his gener- and is a past member of the St. Johns ous donation. 8 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Members Work to Protect the St. Johns River Ecosystem Development in Florida is on the rise Chris Farrell, again. And the key to it all is access to Audubon’s North- water. More growth usually means more east Florida Policy water removed from the ecosystem, Associate, is potentially to the detriment of birds and working to defeat other wildlife. Audubon has made it a these costly and priority to ensure that as our communities harmful projects. grow, local governments employ smart Over the summer, water policies that maximize conservation. Chris and con- The St. Johns River is a remarkably servation ally St. diverse mosaic of natural lands running Johns Riverkeeper from South Florida to Jacksonville. represented North The system includes marshes, swamps, Florida’s environ- springs, and streams, with both crystal ment in meetings The St. Johns River ecosystem supports important species like Bald clear and tannin-stained waters. It is a with leadership from Eagles. Photo by RJ Wiley. haven for Florida’s majestic wading birds three water manage- and supports many Bald Eagles that nest ment districts. Our message was heard loud and clear. along the river. The Governing Board passed a In November, Chris led a campaign motion to support additional conser- Yet, this incredibly important resource is with the support of Audubon members vation efforts as planning continues. in peril. Unsustainable growth in to convey our message of “conservation Additionally, district staff are preparing Central Florida and a dwindling water first” to the Governing Board of the St. a resolution for board vote stating river supply are driving plans to remove Johns River Water Management Dis- withdrawals will only be considered as a massive quantities of water from the St. trict. “last resort.” Johns River ecosystem. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Establishes First New Critical Wildlife Area in Decades

passage. Commissioner Ron Bergeron also endorsed the protection, saying that he has fished this region since childhood and marveled at its bird wealth. Chairman Brian Yablonski told the Commissioners that there has only been one other CWA designation in the state in the last twenty years, but to look closely because “we’re going to be seeing more of these.”

Special thanks to Collier County Bird Steward and wildlife photographer Jean Hall for travelling 16 hours round-trip The new Critical Wildlife Area designation at Second Chance Sandbar will help protect Least Terns, to the meeting in Panama City and to Black Skimmers, and Wilson’s Plovers. Photo by Dave Graff/Florida DEP. Bay County Audubon co-president Ron Houser for their testimonies on behalf In November, the Florida Fish and Cape Romano. It has supported the of the designation. Wildlife Conservation Commission region’s largest Least Tern colony in past voted unanimously to establish a new years, as well as nesting Black Skimmers But most of all, congratulations to the Critical Wildlife Area (CWA) at Second and Wilson’s Plovers. Least Terns and staff of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Chance Sandbar in southwest Florida. Black Skimmers are both state Threat- Research Reserve, FWC and Audubon, The new CWA will close the island to ened and Wilson’s Plovers are a declining and the many volunteers who give their vessel landings during the beach-nesting species of growing conservation concern. time to protect these special places. bird season. Because of your efforts, Second Chance Commissioner Liesa Priddy—a south- CWA now has a real chance at success Second Chance Sandbar is part of a west Florida resident who has visited the for nesting birds. shoal system south of Collier County’s site—was an impassioned advocate for Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida Winter 2015 9 Celebrating Conservation Leadership & Vision “The success of Audubon’s mission is thanks to the vision of its members and supporters. I’m proud to be part of the conservation legacy of this great organization.” – Jud Laird, Audubon Florida Board of Directors Two Audubon Chapters Open New Nature Centers Nature Centers provide important the Celery Fields is now one of environmental education opportunities the best bird habitats in Florida. to both children and adults. It’s not The full impact of their efforts cheap or easy to build and operate these can be enjoyed and studied special places, but that didn’t deter two at the new Sarasota Audubon Audubon Chapters in Florida from Society Nature Center. President opening new facilities in 2015. Jeanne Dubi worked relentlessly to organize a capital campaign Under President Dr. Richard Baker’s that raised over $1.3 million and, leadership, Pelican Island Audubon with the help of a $42,000 grant Society raised $500,000 for the con- from the William G. and Marie struction of the new Audubon House Selby Foundation, the Center in Vero Beach. The Center opened its was constructed to a LEED Gold doors in April 2015 on the chapter’s Standard. Dubi proudly claims 50th Anniversary. The Audubon House that “the 6000 square feet will provide a home base for local campus provides a teaching conservation education and training. opportunity where people will The Center will also raise Pelican Island learn about sustainability, wild- Audubon’s visibility in the community life, and conservation.” For more information on how you can visit or as they work to conserve, protect, and support these two Audubon Nature Centers, please advocate for local wildlife and Indian Congratulations to Pelican Island visit: River County waterways. Audubon Society and Sarasota Audubon for their remarkable •http://www.sarasotaaudubon.org Thanks to years of engagement between conservation vision and leadership. •http://www.pelicanislandaudubon.org Sarasota Audubon and Sarasota County, Darden: Over a Decade of Conservation Leadership Darden and Audubon Florida are com- Darden’s employees are personally in- Thank you to Darden Sustainability mitted partners in the effort to conserve vested in our mission as well. In Octo- and Kristine for your wonderful con- Florida’s natural resources. Darden’s ber of this year, Kristine Young, Darden servation leadership. Donations are still first gift was to the Audubon Center Sustainability Manager, joined Audubon needed for the new research boat. For for Birds of Prey as part of the Center’s members at the annual Audubon more information on how you can join capital campaign to upgrade the facil- Assembly where she heard about a Darden in supporting Mike’s effort, ity in 2002. Starting in 2008, Darden unique fundraiser from Audubon please visit: supported Audubon Florida’s work scientist Mike Kline. http://bit.ly/MikeBikeEverglades. to restore and recover the Northern Everglades, enabling our staff to work Mike was riding his bike from the with cattle ranchers in the Kissimmee Everglades Science Center in the Florida Valley to improve water management Keys to the Assembly in Orlando to and water cleaning strategies. And most raise the funds to replace a damaged recently, in 2015, Darden made a gift of research boat. Kristine was so inspired $25,000 to Audubon Florida to sup- by Mike’s effort that she committed an Thanks to Darden Sustainability, Audubon’s port the state program. Over the years, additional $5,000 gift from Darden Everglades Science Team is closer to replacing Darden has contributed over $360,000 Sustainability to help Mike and his col- an important research vessel that was recently towards Audubon’s conservation work. leagues buy their new boat. damaged. 10 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Leaders Leave a Conservation Legacy “It is so hard to pick one thing that we become involved in are most proud of, but inspiring others conservation, Bob to do what they can for conservation replied, “I credit my and making lots of conservation friends grandmother and is what stands out.” - Bob Stamps and father for introduc- Loretta Satterthwaite. ing me to nature, and to my mother Bob Stamps and Loretta Satterthwaite who taught me to have been the stalwarts of Orange care and respect all Audubon Society. Together, they have living things.” supported and nurtured the 44 chapters in Florida while serving on the Audu- Loretta Satterth- bon Florida Board. And they have set waite’s career has the high bar for their effort, dedication, been primarily aca- and vision for conserving Florida’s birds demic. She shared, and wildlife. “While teaching biology for non-ma- After retiring from a successful career jors at the University Bob Stamps and Loretta Satterthwaite in horticulture at the University of of Illinois, I realized just how important were honored at the 2015 Audubon Florida, Dr. Robert H. Stamps decided it was for people to be made aware of Assembly with the prestigious William to dedicate himself to conservation how badly we were treating the earth. T. Dutcher award. And as they prepare full-time. Bob is now recognized as an Coupling that with Bob’s enthusiasm to relocate to Illinois, they leave behind extraordinary leader and valuable asset for the outdoors, it was an easy choice their vision of the Orange Audubon to the Audubon Florida community. to continue to fight the conservation Nature Center. When asked what inspired him to battles.” Ann Harwood-Nuss: A Personal Commitment to Protecting Florida’s Birds

After retiring from a long and rewarding In 2012, Ann started volunteering for and vision for conservation is bound- career in academic emergency medicine, Audubon’s EagleWatch program and less. She’s already helped recruit another Ann Harwood-Nuss knew she wanted was the only volunteer in Northeast member to the Grinnell Legacy Society to become more involved in conserva- Florida. Thanks to Ann, that program and she’s working on more. tion work. has grown and there are now 35 EagleWatch volunteers in the area. In Ann’s own words, “Although there Ann’s dedication to Florida’s birds was are many maxims about the benefits so strong that she has since become a of giving, in a beautifully simple phrase, member of the Audubon Center for the power of giving is that it feels Birds of Prey Sustainability Committee good.” We are so grateful to and joined the Audubon Florida Board be a beneficiary of her of Directors. generosity and passion for Ann not only supports Audubon Florida Florida’s birds. with the precious gift of time but also significantly supports our work with financial contributions. In 2015, Ann provided the funding for the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey to purchase a new digital X-Ray machine. This equip- ment helps the Center provide better treatment for injured raptors that arrive at the clinic for care. If you would like to learn more about naming Audubon Florida But one of Ann’s most important con- as a beneficiary in your estate tributions to conservation in Florida plans, please contact In May, Ann released the Audubon Center was her decision to leave a legacy gift to Audubon’s Cathy Rodgers at for Birds of Prey’s 500th rehabilitated Audubon and become a member of the [email protected]. Bald Eagle. Grinnell Legacy Society. Ann’s energy

Learn more at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida Winter 2015 11 What Will 2016 Bring Florida’s Environment? Eric Draper looks at 2016’s opportunities and challenges for Audubon’s science, water and conservation work. Getting it Done Now and Taking the Long View

The other day I was at the groundbreak- ing for an Everglades restoration project. As the shovels moved the dirt I remem- bered that the seeds for this project were planted long ago. The land was pur- chased with funds from both the state and Martin County. The project was designed by federal agencies. Soon the site will treat and store billions of excess St. Lucie River water.

At the groundbreaking of the new C-44 reservoir in Martin County. Next year I hope to take part in more restoration groundbreakings and ribbon Audubon’s recommendations for the involves building expensive projects to cuttings. Each brings us a step closer to state budget take the long view. We ask treat and deliver water that none of us plans that were charted nearly twenty that voter-approved Amendment 1 want coming out of our taps. Audubon years ago. That is the long view. dollars be used for: has demonstrated that Florida can meet its water needs with existing sources if Today as I started writing this article, • Everglades restoration - $150 million we get serious about water conservation. the phone rang with questions from • Land conservation - $150 million That is the long view. reporters about the state’s budget. • Springs recovery - $50 million Governor Rick Scott recommends more • Conservation land management - Audubon Science to Guide the Future money for the Everglades, but shorts the $100 million land acquisition programs that so many of Florida’s Wetland Resources voters thought they were getting with As the funds captured by Amendment 1 the 2014 Water and Land Conservation grow over the next 19 years, so should We know birds need wetlands to thrive. Amendment. That is short-sighted. It environmental spending. That’s why Audubon has long invested bothers me that this Governor is only in Everglades science. Under state and recommending 1/10th of what his Water: Today’s Crisis and Tomorrow’s federal laws, developers and farmers are supposed to avoid wetlands. And those predecessors put into land conservation Opportunity – even though there are ninety projects wetlands that are lost to development and roadbuilding have to be replaced. with a million acres waiting for state The Legislature is likely to pass a major funds. In 2016, Audubon will refocus our water bill next year. Far from perfect, science to take the long view on the it fails in its original ambition to clean Florida is growing quickly, but state success of damaged or replacement wet- up and restore flows to Florida’s springs. lands. In recent years, our scientists have leaders are not investing adequate funds But hard-fought advocacy caused bill in the land and water infrastructure noted trends in wading bird nesting sponsors to make changes that make it success related to how much water is in needed to protect our springs, rivers, likely that less pollution finds its way and estuaries, along with wildlife and wetlands at different times of the year. into the Everglades, Lake Okeechobee, We hope the new research will influence parks for people. Instead, they take the coastal waters, and springs. short view of promising short-term everyone from developers to govern- economic gains. ment agencies to treat existing wetlands The water bill also sets up processes for a little better and make sure the replace- managing water supply when there is ment wetlands live up to the promise. not enough water for growing human That is the long view. needs and the environment. Utilities are still clinging to short-term thinking that

12 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 Learn more at http://fl.audubon.org Audubon Assembly 2015 Parks: The Heart of Natural Florida Thank you to everyone who attended the 2015 Audubon Assembly in Maitland. It was an inspiring weekend, full of interesting lectures, exciting field trips, and an unforgettable keynote presentation from Rafael Galvez. We hope to see you all again next year. Details will be revealed in the coming months – stay tuned to our website! 2015 Award Winners:

Champion of the Everglades Theodore Roosevelt Florida’s Special Places Senator Darren Soto Senator Thad Altman Will Abberger

Guy Bradley Women in Conservation Florida’s Special Places Laurie Macdonald Deirdre Macnab Aliki Moncrief

Distinguished Philanthropist Award Volunteer of the Year Chapter of the Year Michael Sheridan Jean Hall Sarasota Audubon Society Thank you to our Assembly sponsors:

How tomorrow moves

TM

AECOM Holbrook Travel The Viera Company Covanta Nestle Waste Management Florida Energy Pipeline Association Publix

Audubon Florida Winter 2015 13 Audubon is able to protect Florida’s birds and conserve their habitat thanks to the dedication, foresight, and generosity of people like you. To learn more about how you can join this effort, Thank You please visit http://www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org or contact Cathy Rodgers at: [email protected] or 407-644-0190. $250,000 and Above Falcon’s Treehouse, LLC Disney EARS to You Fund The Batchelor Foundation James L. Ferman, Jr. Duval Audubon Society The Everglades Foundation, Inc. Estate of Brenda Voght Harrison Engelhardt Hammer & Associates, Inc. Merrill G. &Emita E. Hastings Foundation Wayne L. Feakes $100,000 - $249,999 Indian River Community Foundation Mike and Colleen Fearney Close Friend Foundation John C. Bock Foundation Mr. and Ms. Robert Figg The Mosaic Company Kitson& Partners John F. Flanigan Estate of Barbara Vogel José and Carmen Latour Lisa Metcalf Walton Family Foundation Mrs. David Mahoney Wendy and Martin Frezza Mary Ann Mahoney Winston Guest $50,000 - $99,999 Alex & Agnes O. McIntosh Foundation Harold L. Wyman Foundation, Inc. Audubon of the Western Everglades Meredith Corporation Foundation Louis Herskowitz Brunckhorst Foundation Brian and Heidi Miller Karyn D. Hoffman Cedar Hill Foundation Navron Corporation Holbrook Travel Florida Power & Light Company Plum Creek Foundation Dale Kammerlohr Estate of Chuck Geanangel Ritchie Charitable Foundation Kissimmee Valley Audubon Society Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC Mary Anne and Tom Spann Marvin and Isa Leibowitz Joanne & Cyrus W. Spurlino William Lichtenberger $25,000 - $49,999 Richard and Sharon Stilwell Stephen Lohden Gordon J. Barnett Memorial Foundation Jim and Jonnie Swann Bob Stamps and Loretta Satterthwaite Kenneth Brown Trust TECO Energy Louis Leibowitz Charitable Trust Judy and C. Frederick Buechner Carol Colman Timmis Kate B. Luzius Disney Conservation Fund Vicki and Walter Tschinkel Maitland Women’s Club Felburn Foundation Frederick S. Upton Foundation Massey Services, Inc. Jud Laird The Wekiva Island LLC Finlay B. Matheson Theodore & Marian Tonne Fund Wells Fargo Julie and West McCann Pinellas Cty Community Foundation Mr. & Mrs. John C. Winn Heidi and Doug McCree The Robinson Foundation William & Virginia Young Fredric R. Mishkin Michael Sheridan Stanley & Mildred Zamo Foundation Estate of Harriet J. Moore Phyllis M. Mueller $10,000 - $24,999 $2,500 - $4,999 David L. Neel Joseph T. Ambrozy Arthrex Inc. Nestlé Barron Collier Companies Betty Byrne and Hudnall Ware Mr. and Mrs. Bobby R. Nicholas Charlie Causey CGMK Foundation Dorothy and Henry Norton The Chingos Foundation Eric Draper Randa Paver Collier Enterprises Management Inc. Florida Keys Audubon Society The Peninsula Charities Foundation Darden Restaurants Foundation Jerol and Winston Gardner, Jr. Consulate General of Canada Deering Foundation Kenneth A. Hale Gretchen Peterson Dykes Everett Rex and Beryl Hamilton The Pew Charitable Trusts Paul Ferber Jinny and John Johnson Tatiana S. Platt Frank M. Ewing Foundation Inc. Lake Region Audubon Society Publix Allyn L. Golub, Ph.D. Tom and Judith Maish Bill and Joan Randolph Brian Hampton Mosaic Virginia and John Rigsby Estate of Brenda V. Harrison MPS Foundation Traci Romine Dr. Ann Harwood-Nuss Phillips 66 Doris J. Rudnick Jennifer Cory Helem Charitable Trust William P. Bushnell Fund Pinellas Doug Santoni Reid B. Hughes County Community Foundation Sarasota Audubon Society Integrated Wellness Systems Inc– Phyllis Shapiro and ParthaBagchi Susan Schumann-Skehan Joseph P. Gaudino Phyllis and Stephen Strunk Security Information Systems - Michael & Ann George L. Lindemann, Jr. Dennis Turner & Elizabeth Anderton Turner Megler Lykes Bros. Inc. Ann and Bill Vanderbilt Deborah Shultz Steve Lynch Mary Sue and William Weinaug Dianne & Leighton Siegel Charles Margiotta South Florida Water Management Chauncey & Marion D. McCormick $1,000 - $2,499 District Family Foundation Lester Abberger Southport Ranch, LLC Stephen & Merrilee Nellis Alico, Inc. Margaret H. Spontak James R. Palmer Paula Allen George Stern Trust The Perkins Charitable Foundation Brad and Alice Andrews Stifel Nicolaus Gloria M. & W. Douglas Pitts Robbelee Arwood Joan Stonecipher The Rathmann Family Foundation Aveda Frederick P. Stratton, Jr. Rayonier Cindy Bach Carolyn and William Stutt Lida Rodriguez-Taseff Eleanor BeidlerSiklossy Foundation Sulzberger Enterprises Inc Willaim J. & Tina Rosenberg Foundation Christopher D. Bleau The Forestland Group Estate of Anna Runyan Leona Boldt Venice Area Audubon Society Katie Sproul The Bond Foundation, Inc. Edward and Mary Ann Ward Kathleen Swann Brooks Family Foundation James Brady Tommy Warren and Kathy Villacorta Elaine Berol Taylor & Scott Bevan Taylor Dan and Connie Burkhardt Waste Management Foundation John Burkhart Hilarie Weiland Paul and Linda Burnham Edward Alain Wood-Prince $5,000 - $9,999 Katie Carpenter Carl and Mary Ida Yost All Aboard Florida Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Doug D. Young American Eagle Foundation Clearwater Audubon Society Lang E. Baumgarten The Clinton Family Fund $500 - $999 The W. Richard Bingham and Winifred W. Victoria Colangelo Linda Adamany Bingham Foundation Community Foundation of Collier County Lois Juliber& Jonathan L. Adams, Jr Lisa Boyce Community Foundation of Tampa Bay Brian Anderson and Daphne Hammond The Estate of Hans Bullinger James L. & Cecelia Ferman, Jr. Fund Apalachee Audubon Society Debra Carrier and Harry Gaines William and Mary Cook Jean R. Armour Joanne & John DallePezze Foundation Covanta Energy Rosemary Armstrong and Sandy Weinberg The Dana Foundation Cheryl S. Cummer and Jack Lyle William M. Aronin Martha Davis and Alix Ritchie Pam and Doug Deneve Alan L. Atterbury John W. Elting Drs. Jitendra and Saryu Desai Audubon Society of the Everglades

14 Audubon Florida Winter 2015 You can help at www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org Audubon Florida & Florida Audubon Society Cynde and John E. Barnes III Andy Bertron James Bilting Financials July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015 Erika Capellupo Candi Carse-Mishko Florida Audubon Society and National Audubon Society operate together as Audubon Florida – led Moon Bae &Jaeyeon Chung by a state board and operating team. Contributions and other income to Audubon Florida are used to Paul R. Clifford support state level science, education,Expen andse sconservation by Pro programs.gram Contributions to Florida Audubon Corkscrew Island Neighborhood Association Society are used to train volunteer leaders, support advocacy, and build our state endowment. For more on how your funds and planned gifts are used to advance Audubon’s mission, please contact Jonathan John Daly Florida Program $451,340 Callie L. DeHaven Webber at 850-222-2473 or email [email protected]. 8% Paul and Sheila Demkovich 11% 8% Andrew and Becky Dubill Expenses by ProgPruablimc Policy $469,860 Curtis and Sharon Duffield Barbara Dye 7% CFloorrkidscar Perwo gSrwaamm $p4 S5a1n,3ct4u0ary Mr. and Mrs. Leo A. Eason 8% $1,691,811 Becky Evers 11% 8% Florida Industrial and Phosphate Research Institute FPluobrildica P Cooliacsyt a$l4 H69ab,8it6a0ts Mr. and Mrs. Edward Thaddeus Foote 10% 29% $1,492,048 Sandy and Mike Freedman 7% ECvoerrkgslcardeews SCwonamsepr vSaatinocntu $a6ry4 9,446 Bruce M. Frerer $1,691,811 Hugh Funderburg Pamela J. Garrison CFleonrtidear fCoora Bsitradl sH Oafb Pitraetsy $428,634 Genesis Systems Group LLC 10% 26% 29% $1,492,048 John Graham Everglades Conservation $649,446 Don and Liz Grozis Everglades Science $662,398 Mrs. Shirley Hankinson John H. and Gail Hankinson Center for Birds Of Prey $428,634 Clay Henderson 26% Total Expense $5,845,537 Angela Heyob Everglades Science $662,398 Jonathan Hunt Eloise L. Ingram Mr. and Mrs. Paul R. Johansen Michael John Total Expense $5,845,537 Bruce R. Kaster Joyce King Revenue Sources Dean King Josephine W. Kixmiller Contributions & Sabine B. Korosy Mae Silver bequests $2,485,431 James Kushlan and Kirsten Hines Revenue Sources Judy Lauritsen Government grants 23% William E. Lewis C$o1n,8t1ri8b,u7ti8o3ns & The Lyme Forest Fund bequests $2,485,431 Maitland Rotary Art Festival Inc 43% Dr. S. R. Maxeiner, Jr. Investment Janet R. McAliley G$1o9ve7r,4n3m9ent grants 4%23% Ruthmarie H. Mitsch $1,818,783 Ambrose K. Monell 43% Center Admissions & David Moynahan other revenue Trevor Nimmons Investment $1,9374,34,38984 Orange Audubon Society 4% 31% Nicholas G. Penniman IV Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Petersen Center Admissions & Mr. David E. Reese other revenue William and Marilyn Roberts Margaret A. Rolando 31% Total Reven$u1e,3 $453,,84854,537 Roger Rosenberger Lyle and Gloria Rosenzweig FLORIDA AUDUBON SOCIETY, INC. David and Ruth J Rowley Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets As of June 30,2015 Edward and Janice Russell Total Revenue $5,845,537 The Schultz Foundation ASSETS Jeffrey Schwartz Current Assets Jay Schwarz Cash 36,067 Uday P. Shenoy Cash - Restricted 19,594 Lynn Povich and Steve Shepard Accounts Receivable 0 H. James Sigsbee Charles Schwab Investment 3,549,013 W. Kelly Smith Charles Schwab Investment -Restricted 969,223 Mr. and Ms. David Smith Total Current Assets 4,573,897 Southstate Management Corp. Other Assets Joanne Swenson Land 3,034,379 Halyna A. Traversa Building & Improvements 2,247,387 Ralph Troyer Furniture & Equipment 39,360 Rory C. Trumbore Accumulated Depreciation -1,067,109 James P. Trunck Total Other Assets 4,254,016 Tina and Roger Van Ghent TOTAL ASSETS 8,827,914 Vermont Raptor Academy LLC Ashok and Rama K. Vora LIABILITIES & EQUITY Anita J. Waser Liabilities 6,755 Sara and Rick Werder Equity Mr. and Mrs. Van Zandt Williams, Jr Land-Preservation 503,612 George Willson Board Designated Aquisition Fund 3,336,177 Mr. and Mrs. John A. Wurtz Unrestricted Net Assets 4,048,212 Temporarily Restricted Net Assets 581,782 Permanent Restricted Net Assets 300,000 Net Income 51,376 Total Equity 8,821,159 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 8,827,914

Audubon Florida Winter 2015 15 Photo by Mac Stone specified forAudubonFloridaorSocietywillbeusedexclusivelytosupportconservationinFlorida. Please contactCathyRodgersatcrodgers@audubon.orgor407-644-0190forestateplanningtomakeanendofyeargiftstock.Forothergiftsgowww Photographers: Johnston, andJonathanWebber. Contributors: Cover Photo: Production: President andExecutiveDirector: The FloridaAudubonSociety, NationalAudubonSociety(doingbusinessasFlorida),andthe44chaptersinFlorida, worktogetherinastrategicalliance. Florida Audubo Annual Report2015 fl.audubon.org Tel: 305-371-6399Fax:305-371-6398 4500 BiscayneBlvd.#205,Miami,FL33137 You AreWhatHopeLooksLike to Florida’s BirdsandWildlife. Visit www.GivetoAudubonFlorida.org toMakeanImpactRightNow NPCPrinting,Inc. RJWiley Eric Draper, SteveLynch, CharlesLee,JulieWraithmell,MarianneKorosy, MattSmith,PaulGray, Tabitha Cale,JacquiSulek,BradCornell,ChrisFarrell,CathyRodgers,Vicky

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