We had a large turnout (March 30, 2018) for UF Herbarium Extension Botanist Marc Frank. Marc talked about plant identification and introduced Florida’s Top Six Plant Families:
You can view Marc’s presentation slides here: PDF of Presentation
Seagrasses are extremely important habitat for the fish, scallops, manatees, turtles, birds and other species that support the coastal tourism economy in Florida’s Nature Coast. Seagrass scarring by propellers, anchors, and vessel groundings is 100% preventable, and yet is a growing problem in Florida.
The University of Florida has started a campaign to raise awareness about seagrass scarring caused by boating. They are calling this campaign “Be Seagrass Safe”.
To learn more visit the “Be Seagrass Safe” web site: http://beseagrasssafe.com.
The University of Florida Marine Animal Rescue is a a non-profit organization funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation through the College of Veterinary Medicine Aquatic Animal Health Program, UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station, and the Cedar Key Dolphin Project.
The Rescue Program responds to sick, injured, and deceased marine mammals in Levy, Dixie, and Taylor counties of the Big Bend. They coordinate rescues of live animals and, if possible, transport them to rehabilitation facilities. They also perform necropsies (animal autopsies) on deceased marine animals to determine their cause of death and learn more about their anatomy, physiology, and the health of their ecosystem.
To report a sick, injured, or deceased marine animal, call or text the 24-hour UF Marine Animal Rescue Hotline at 352-477-0344 or the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-407-3922. Be prepared to give your location (address, GPS, or waterway marker), animal involved (dolphin, whale, manatee, sea turtle), number of animals and their condition (alive, dead, injured or distressed).
If you are interested in volunteer opportunities contact Amber Lea Kincaid (Stranding Coordinator), at a.kincaid@ufl.edu.