EcoTeers in Action: Growing Community Impact Through Sustainability and Service

EcoTeers in Action: Growing Community Impact Through Sustainability and Service

Our EcoTeers continue to make a meaningful impact in the community through education, outreach, and hands-on environmental action. In January, our team connected with local residents at events in Pompano Beach, where they supported a Garden Club Seminar featuring our horticulture curator, Amy Reilly, and engaged visitors during Conservation Weekend to inspire new volunteers and raise awareness about sustainability.

In February, EcoTeers participated in a community celebration at the historic Sample-McDougald House, distributing biodegradable plant pods with native wildflower seeds and educating families about the importance of protecting our environment. In March, they continued their outreach at Water Matters Day, sharing insights on water conservation and promoting initiatives like our Rain Barrel Program.

Looking ahead, we are excited to expand our impact. We will host two Earth Day events on April 18 and April 22, and in the coming months, our volunteers will collaborate with a local nonprofit on an aquaponics and gardening project, while also leading native planting efforts in parks and shared community spaces. Plans are also underway for a Sustainability and Climate Fair this summer.

With your support, we can continue to grow these programs, deepen community engagement, and create a more sustainable future for all.
#Climate #WaterConservation #Ecoteers

Eco-teers in Action: Growing a Greener Broward

With gratitude to our partner, the Community Foundation of Broward
At Flamingo Gardens, every act of care — every planted tree, every conserved drop of water, every conversation about sustainability — helps our community bloom a little brighter.
Thanks to the generous support of the Community Foundation of Broward (CFB), our Eco-teers have been hard at work nurturing both the environment and the people who call central Broward home. We recently partnered with them on their “40 for 40: Spread the Love” initiative, celebrating the CFB’s 40 years of impact with some impact of our own: installing 40 rain barrels across the County.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors — and Nature
Since January, Eco-teers have teamed up with 40 community organizations, reaching an estimated 117,000 residents across central Broward.
From school gardens to other nonprofit organizations, our volunteers have helped bring people together to learn, share, and take meaningful steps toward sustainability. Every project reflects the spirit of community that keeps Broward County thriving.
“Our work is about more than conservation,” says Ashley Vieira, Eco-Teer Coordinator. “It’s about helping people feel empowered to care for the places they love — and showing that small changes can make a big impact.”

Caring for Water, Our Most Precious Resource
Water is life — and protecting it has been one of Eco-teers’ top priorities this year.
Through this project’s reuse initiatives, we’ve saved more than 300 gallons of water in just six months. By year’s end, we’re on track to conserve over 900 gallons, with an additional 790 to 1,200 gallons reused through sustainable practices.
These efforts not only reduce waste but also remind us of the power of collective action — how small steps, multiplied across a community, can ripple outward to create lasting change.


Powered by Partnership
We’re deeply thankful to the Community Foundation of Broward for making this work possible. Their partnership helps us grow our reach, strengthen our programs, and continue building a more sustainable future for everyone in our community.
“The Community Foundation’s support doesn’t just fund our programs — it fuels hope,” says Vieira. “Together, we’re proving that when we care for our environment, we care for each other.”

Join the Eco-teers!

Our mission continues — and we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether you’re planting, teaching, or simply spreading awareness, your time and passion make a difference.

📩 Contact:

Ashley Vieira

Eco-Teer Coordinator

📧 [email protected]

Learn more at flamingogardens.org/clubs-classes/eco-teers-club

August 2025 Recap: Eco-Teers in Action

August 2025 Recap: Eco-Teers in Action

August was an inspiring month for the Eco-Teers, filled with community connection, hands-on conservation, and exciting collaborations. From welcoming new volunteers to celebrating partnerships, we saw the power of people coming together for a greener, more sustainable future. Here’s a look back at what we accomplished:

August 2nd – Volunteer/Eco-Teer Booth at Sunrise Athletic Complex

Our booth at the Sunrise Athletic Complex was buzzing with curiosity and conversation! Designed to welcome new members into the Eco-Teers community, the booth also sparked meaningful discussions around sustainability, conservation, and eco-conscious living.

Visitors had the chance to:

Learn about Eco-Teers’ projects and volunteer opportunities

Join in interactive eco-activities

Chat with experienced volunteers and our Eco-Teer Coordinator

Take home free resources on waste reduction, climate action, and local environmental issues

We were thrilled to connect with so many people of all ages who shared our vision for a healthier planet.

August 3rd – Monthly Volunteer Orientation at Flamingo Gardens

Volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do, and our August orientation at Flamingo Gardens reflected that.

The session gave new volunteers the chance to connect, learn, and feel prepared to make a real difference through environmental stewardship and teamwork.

Next up: Our upcoming orientation will take place on September 28th, 2025 at 11 AM. Interested in joining? Email us at [email protected]
or [email protected] to sign up.

August 23rd – Surfrider Collaboration & Dedication

Collaboration made us stronger — and our recent partnership with the Surfrider Foundation proved just that! Together, we celebrated the official dedication of the Children’s Outdoor Classroom at Flamingo Gardens as an “Ocean Friendly” space.

This recognition highlighted the classroom as a place rooted in sustainable practices, native biodiversity, and environmental education.

With Surfrider volunteers by our side, we:

Cleared large sections of invasive cat’s claw and pothos

Strategically removed roots and vines to prevent regrowth

Restored space for native species to thrive

Shared hands-on eco-restoration techniques with new volunteers

In addition, Eco-Teers introduced new rain barrels for water conservation — a perfect tie-in to Surfrider’s mission of reducing runoff and preventing water pollution.

This collaboration brought new energy, perspective, and community members into our ecosystem restoration efforts. While Surfrider is widely known for coastal protection, their land-to-sea vision aligned beautifully with Eco-Teers’ mission right here in our own backyard.

For more information about Surfrider Foundation of Broward click here!

August 30th – Together We Stand

Eco-Teers attended a project at Together We Stand nonprofit organization in Hollywood from 10am to 1pm.

Eco-Teers learned about the importance of Hydroponics vs. Aquaponics and how to install that into their sustainability practices.

In a time of climate instability, rising food costs, and urban sprawl, communities are looking for resilient, local solutions to feed themselves and reconnect people to the land. Approaches like aquaponics, hydroponics, native planting, and invasive removal aren’t just ecological tools — they are also community tools, helping people come together around shared purpose and place.

Aquaponics & Hydroponics: Growing Together Without Soil

What they are:

Hydroponics: Growing plants in a nutrient-rich water solution without soil.

Aquaponics: A closed-loop system that combines hydroponics with fish farming. Fish waste fertilizes the plants; plants clean the water for the fish.

Eco-Teers assisted in removing overgrown plants invasive and native to learn how an aquaponic table works and the purpose of it. They also assisted in replanting natives and restructuring native habitats.

Whether you’re joining through Eco-Teers, Flamingo Gardens, or both, our monthly orientation is your first step into a rewarding journey of environmental stewardship and community collaboration.

Ready to take part?

Our next Orientation will take place September 28th 2025 at 11am.

You can reach us at [email protected] OR [email protected]

Upcoming Eco-teer Events

September Events:

September 14th 2025 – ADOPT – A – DUNE

Partnership with Surfrider on a sea oat planting project. Join us from 8am to 12pm while we reconstruct a native dune in Pompano.

September 20th 2025 – Happy International Coastal Cleanup Day!

From 9am to 12pm we will be dividing up and cleaning Hugh Taylor Birch State Park AND Pompano Pier!

September 27th 2025 – Happy National Public Lands Day!

October Events:

EcoAction Days start again!! Stay tuned.

Now Open: The Everglades Outdoor Classroom at Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens, in collaboration with the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) and with support from the Community Foundation of Broward, officially opened the new Everglades Outdoor Classroom with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday morning, May 28. This interactive learning space brings the beauty of South Florida’s native ecosystems to life, offering guests of all ages a hands-on, immersive experience rooted in the biodiversity of the Everglades.

Left to right: Shannon Gallagher with Thunder the Bald Eagle; Tom Reinert, South Reginal Director of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; Dr. Jennifer O'Flannery Anderson, President and CEO of Community Foundation of Broward; Keith Clark, CEO of Flamingo Gardens; Town of Davie Mayor, Judy Paul; Jan Amador, President of Flamingo Gardens; and Joe Cox, CEO of the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS).

Set within the lush landscape of Flamingo Gardens, the Everglades Outdoor Classroom invites visitors to explore native species, uncover the delicate balance of natural ecosystems, and deepen their understanding of how the Florida Wildlife Corridor connects people, plants, and animals across the region.

As part of a countywide initiative, this outdoor classroom complements the Nature Explore Outdoor Exhibit that opened last month at MODS in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Together, the two campuses present a dual perspective on Broward County’s native environments—MODS focusing on urban wildlife and habitats, while Flamingo Gardens immerses guests in the natural splendor of the Everglades. Together, they tell a unified story of the incredible biodiversity of Florida Wildlife Corridor and the urgent need for conservation. Both campuses share a united goal to inspire a lifelong love of nature and foster the next generation of environmental stewards.

“We’re opening more than a new exhibit. We’re opening minds, sparking curiosity, and planting seeds of environmental stewardship that will grow for generations to come,” said Keith Clark, CEO of Flamingo Gardens. “This outdoor classroom is a living, breathing space designed for hands-on discovery.”

What You’ll Discover

  • Interactive learning zones focused on native Everglades habitats and species
  • Sensory and nature play areas that encourage creativity and exploration
  • Educational signage and self-guided activities to inspire curiosity
  • Inclusive access features, expanding learning opportunities for children and adults with visual, hearing, or mobility challenges
  • Volunteer-led programs that empower community members to champion sustainability

The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is also the first phase of Flamingo Gardens’ Everglades Discovery Trail—a series of future outdoor learning environments designed to deepen environmental literacy and conservation action.

A Community Effort

This dynamic new space would not be possible without the collaboration and generous support of our partners and funders. We extend our sincere gratitude to the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward:

  • Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund
  • Mary and Alex MacKenzie Community Impact Fund
  • The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund

 Additional support has been provided by:
• The State of Florida
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
• BBX Capital Foundation
• Bass Pro Shop & Cabela’s Outdoor Fund
• Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation
• Helen Ingham Foundation
• JM Family Enterprises
• Lakeside Foundation
• And numerous private donors who believe in the power of education and conservation

The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is a testament to the strength of collaboration and vision-driven philanthropy—and it marks just the beginning of what’s to come.


Explore. Learn. Connect. The Everglades are waiting.

The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is included with general admission to Flamingo Gardens.

Click Here to see more photos from the Everglades Outdoor Classroom Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Eco-Teers: An End To Winter and Jump Into Spring!

As winter came to a close, Eco-Teers stayed busy with impactful projects, community engagement, and climate education. Here’s a look back at all we accomplished during February and March.

Pollinator Gardens & Rain Barrels

On February 6th, thirty butterflies were released into the newly renovated pollinator garden at Memorial Hospital’s pavilion garden, marking the beginning of a thriving ecosystem designed to support local pollinators and beautify the space.

Eco-Teers followed this success with another garden renovation at Memorial West on February 22nd. Alongside the renovation, a Rain Barrel was installed to promote sustainable water use, and an additional 20 native plants were added, bringing the total to around 50. These efforts enhance habitats for pollinators and contribute to local biodiversity.

Climate Education & Awareness

On February 25th, Eco-Teers attended a virtual Climate Seminar led by Dr. Michael Falkowski, Program Manager of The NASA Wildland Fire Program. His discussion focused on the influence of climate change and human activity on global fire regimes, highlighting how land-use changes, fossil fuel consumption, and ignition sources are driving catastrophic wildfires. Inspired by this seminar, Eco-Teers are more committed than ever to projects that protect and restore our environment.

Community Cleanups & Water Conservation

We kicked off March with the International Waterway Cleanup Project at Anne Kolb Nature Center/Hollywood North Beach on March 1st. As Broward County’s largest and longest-running cleanup initiative, Eco-Teers proudly removed approximately 220 pounds of waste—four full 60-gallon garbage bags—from local waterways, helping to preserve our precious ecosystems.

On March 8th, Eco-Teers participated in the City of Sunrise’s Water Matters Day, where we connected with community members and other organizations to share our efforts in conserving water. We also promoted our ongoing Rain Barrel installations—if your organization or business is interested, reach out to us at [email protected].

We wrapped up the month with Earth Hour on March 22nd. Eco-Teers spread awareness about this global movement, where landmarks worldwide go dark for one hour to emphasize the importance of reducing energy consumption. Originally started in Australia, Earth Hour serves as a powerful symbol of collective action against climate change.

Thank You to Our Volunteers and Supporters!

Eco-Teers would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all our volunteers and donors who make these projects possible. Your support allows us to continue our mission of depicting, preserving, and providing education about the natural and cultural heritage of South Florida and the Everglades.

If you’d like to join us, email our Eco-Teer Coordinator, Ashley Vieira, at [email protected] or call us at 954-473-2955 ext. 134. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on our environment—one project at a time.

Eco-teers: New Year, New Projects!

Saturday, January 25th, 2025

Over the weekend, our dedicated Eco-Teers participated in a multitude of environmental projects that have significantly impacted our communities and natural landscapes. From composting workshops to restoring native habitats and educating the public on sustainable practices, our volunteers have demonstrated commitment and passion for protecting the environment.

One notable project, this past Saturday, involved attending a compost workshop in Miami led by Francisco Torres. This hands-on workshop enlightened our volunteers on the correct process of composting and ways it can be incorporated into daily life. This educational project will assist in our sustainability initiatives and future developments.

Sunday, January 26th, 2025

Another significant initiative was our Butterfly Garden installment at the pavilion of Memorial Hospital – West on Sunday the 26th, where volunteers planted a large amount of host and nectar plants for pollinators. This not only improved aesthetics for patients and staff at the hospital, but it also fostered a sense of community and environmental stewardship as well as reintroducing wildlife such as butterflies, birds, and native insects while providing shade.

In addition to hands-on projects, our volunteers have been instrumental in organizing educational workshops and outreach programs. These initiatives have raised awareness about environmental issues and equipped individuals with the knowledge and tools to make a positive difference in their own lives and communities.

We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our donors and volunteers, whose generous contributions have made these projects possible. Their financial support has provided the necessary resources for equipment, materials, and logistical needs, ensuring the success of our endeavors. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. Your efforts are making a lasting impact on our environment and inspiring others to join in our mission for a greener, healthier planet.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Join us for our next adventure!

February Events:

  • February 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – Eco Action Day at Fern Forest
    • Eco-Teers will be removing invasives and waste. This project will be from 9AM to 12PM.
Location: 201 S Lyons Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33063
  • February 2nd, 2025 (Sunday) – Rain Barrell Install & Annual Gala
    • Eco-Teers will also be installing a rain barrel for the grant project to the memorial butterfly garden, installations to be announced with details in another email. I’m estimating for this same weekend, if not, the following.
    • Our Annual Food & Wine Gala, volunteers needed, sign up on signup.com
  • February 8th/9th 2025 (This weekend) – Volunteers will be installing another butterfly garden for Broward County Animal Care Dept. Humane Society was hoping to have their own butterfly garden at one of the shelters in honor of the animals. Date/Time pending. 
  • February 25th, 2025 (Tuesday) – Climate Change Seminar
    • Dr. Michael Falkowski, Program Manager of the NASA Wildland Fire Program, will address how climate change and human activity are changing fire regimes worldwide. 
Location: Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
4600 Rickenbacker Causeway
Miami, FL 33149

March Events:

  • March 1st, 2025 (Saturday) – Water Way Clean Up
    • EcoTeers will be participating in a waterway cleanup at Anne Kolb Nature Center from 9am to 12pm. More details to come!
  • March 22nd, 2025 (Saturday) – Native Plant Day, UF IFAS will be hosting a rain barrel workshop at Castellow Hammock Park and Nature Center

    • Learn about water conservation at the Rain Barrel Workshop during Native Plant Day on Saturday, March 22, hosted by the UF IFAS Miami-Dade Urban Horticulture Program. Held at one of Miami-Dade County’s scenic nature centers, this workshop highlights the benefits of rain barrels for sustainable gardening and provides practical tips on their use.

Register here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rain-barrel-workshop-at-native-plant-day-tickets-1087084672519

If you would like to join the Eco-teers for our next project, contact Ashley at [email protected] or call 954-473-2955 for more information.

Eco-Teers: “40 for 40: Spread the Love” Grant and Invasive Removal!

Flamingo Gardens is thrilled to announce that our Eco-teers program has been honored with the “40 for 40: Spread the Love” grant from the Community Foundation of Broward! To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Community Foundation awarded a total of $400,000 to 40 innovative nonprofits across Broward County, and we’re excited to be one of them. This grant will support a project that embodies our commitment to sustainability: 40 Rain Barrels for Broward.

In line with the grant’s creative requirement to incorporate “40,” the Eco-teers will install 40 rain barrels throughout the county to highlight the Foundation’s 40 years of impact and support for sustainable practices. Over the coming year, our Eco-teers will work with community gardens, schools, businesses, and nonprofits across Broward County to identify locations for these rain barrels. Our team will install and maintain each rain barrel and provide training to our partners—all at no cost to these organizations.

Why rain barrels? They’re an incredibly effective tool for sustainable water management, which is vital in our South Florida climate. By capturing and using rainwater, these barrels reduce water costs, prevent runoff pollution, lower demand on local water supplies, and reduce flood risks. More importantly, this project will raise community awareness of water conservation and showcase practical steps we can take together for a more resilient environment.

But the impact goes beyond just water conservation. One of our long-term goals is to track how much water we’re saving collectively and look for other large-scale opportunities to support Broward County’s sustainability efforts. This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the Community Foundation’s dedicated Fundholders who partner to create funds that fuel projects like this. Their support over the last 40 years has provided more than $190 million for causes ranging from student achievement and arts education to environmental resilience and social justice.

Ashley Vieira Eco-teer Coordinator and Genevieve Marcello Sr. Director of Programs

In addition to launching this rain barrel project, our Eco-teers have been hard at work. Saturday October 5th, they tackled an invasive species removal project at Fern Forest Nature Center, targeting Sida cordifolia (flannel weed) and Urena lobata (Caesar’s weed). These invasive plants, which threaten local ecosystems, were removed to restore balance to the area. Over three hours, our Eco-teers cleared nearly 100 pounds of invasive species by the root, helping to protect and rejuvenate native plant life.

We’re incredibly grateful to the Community Foundation of Broward for their continued support and are looking forward to rolling out Celebrating Sustainability: 40 Rain Barrels for Broward! To all our supporters and partners, thank you for helping us create a healthier, more sustainable Broward County.

More updates to come on future projects/events if you follow us on Instagram!
Instagram: ecoteers.fg

To volunteer with Flamingo Gardens and/or EcoTeers,
contact us at:
[email protected] or [email protected]

Flamingo Gardens Announces Receipt of The Community Foundation of Broward’s 40 for 40: Spread the Love Grant

Davie, Florida – Flamingo Gardens is proud to announce that the Flamingo Gardens’ Eco-teers are a proud recipient of the Community Foundation of Broward’s 40 for 40: Spread the Love Grant.
To celebrate its 40th Anniversary, the Community Foundation awarded a total of $400,000 to 40 Broward County nonprofits, investing in projects and initiatives that make life in Broward better and supporting innovative and impactful opportunities for nonprofits to help our community.
Among the eligibility requirements for the grant was a call for creative ideas to incorporate the number 40, while staying true to the organization’s mission. In celebration of the Community Foundation of Broward’s 40 years and their inaugural funding of the Flamingo Gardens’ Eco-teers, they will install 40 rain barrels across the county in their honor. Over the course of the next year, the Eco-teers will identify and secure placement for 40 rain barrels at community gardens, schools, businesses, and non-profits throughout Broward County. Materials will be provided at no cost to the partner agencies, and the members of the Eco-teers will install each of the rain barrels and provide training and routine maintenance.

Conservation of water via rain barrels is important to fostering sustainable water management practices and mitigating environmental impacts in communities. By capturing and utilizing rainwater, rain barrels significantly contribute to several key benefits such as reducing costs for both household and commercial water usage, preventing drought, decreasing resilience on water municipalities, preventing pollutants due to runoff, and reducing flooding. By far the biggest impact this project will have will be in terms of educating the public. The long-term goal of the project is to give back to the community, monitor water usage vs. water conservation efforts, and track where larger-scale adjustments can be made.

Like all Community Foundation grants, this new anniversary-themed wave of support is made possible by the dedicated Fundholders who partner with the Foundation to create charitable funds to fuel their philanthropy. The Community Foundation now shepherds 532 charitable funds and over 40 years they have provided more than $190 million in support for: student achievement, the arts, career readiness, seniors in need, HIV/AIDs prevention, equity and social justice, environmental resilience, health care, affordable housing, disaster relief, empowering nonprofits and much more.

Flamingo Gardens is grateful to the Community Foundation of Broward for its on-going support of projects and programs and looks forward to carrying out this new program – Celebrating Sustainability – 40 Rain Barrels for Broward – in their honor.

If you would like more information on joining the Eco-teers, or if your school, small business, or non-profit is interested in receiving a rain barrel, please contact Ashley Vieria at [email protected].

Eco-Teers on a Mission: Fighting Invasive Species and Cleaning Our Coasts

September was a busy month for Eco-Teers, and we are proud to share two incredible stories of teamwork, environmental conservation, and the passion that fuels our efforts.

Battling the Rosary Pea: Invasive Species Removal Success

On September 7, 2024, a group of Eco-Teers took on a daunting task: removing the invasive Rosary Pea vine from Miramar Pineland Park. While its small, delicate flowers may look beautiful, don’t be fooled—this vine is one of the most dangerous invasive species in Florida.

Native to India, the Rosary Pea (Abrus precatorius) vine has wreaked havoc along the coasts and in parts of South and Central Florida. What makes it so harmful? First, its aggressive climbing habit allows it to choke out native plants, robbing trees of sunlight and nutrients as it spirals all the way up to their branches. Second, its vibrant seeds contain one of the most toxic substances on the planet: abrin. Even a small dose can be fatal to both humans and livestock.

For these reasons, the Rosary Pea vine is classified as highly invasive, and the mission to remove it was urgent. Armed with gloves, clippers, and the support of public and park naturalists, Eco-Teers managed to remove an astonishing 400 pounds of this dangerous vine. This hard-won victory didn’t just clear space for native plants to thrive again, but it also eliminated a direct threat to the park’s wildlife and visitors.

Our success that day underscores an essential point: protecting local ecosystems from invasive species is as critical as it is rewarding.

Cleaning Up Dania Beach: A Coastal Effort for a Cleaner Future

Just two weeks later, on September 21, 2024, Eco-Teers took their environmental mission to the shore for the International Coastal Cleanup at Dania Beach. This global event, hosted by the Marine Environmental Education Center (MEEC) and supported by American Express, brought together a diverse group of volunteers, all dedicated to one common goal—preserving our coastline.

The event was a true celebration of community spirit, with 95 volunteers (Eco-Teers and AMEX) stepping up to the challenge. The day kicked off at 9 AM, and for the next five hours, participants scoured the beach for debris—everything from packaging materials to discarded fishing gear. Each piece of trash collected was carefully logged using Ocean Conservancy’s Clean Swell app, a tool that helps track pollution data and monitor environmental trends.

For those unable to use the app, we provided forms to ensure that every bit of data was reported back to Ocean Conservancy. This information is vital for future conservation planning and to give us a clearer picture of the types of debris that plague our beaches.

The generosity of American Express didn’t stop at providing volunteers. They also supplied refreshments to keep the team going under the Florida sun, which was much needed as the hours rolled by. All in all, it was a day of triumph: we collected a total of 194 pounds of trash, with the Eco-Teers themselves clearing 40 pounds. It may seem like a small dent in the grand scheme of things, but as the 2022 Beach Cleanup Annual Report points out, while the average person may collect 1.95 pounds of trash, together, we can achieve enormous results—just like the 9,000 pounds of trash cleared worldwide in 2022.

The Power of Community Engagement

Both of these events highlighted something important: the immense power of community in environmental conservation. Whether it’s removing invasive species that threaten our ecosystems or cleaning our beaches to keep marine life safe, our collective efforts make a real difference.

These projects wouldn’t have been possible without our volunteers, partners, and the financial support of The Community Foundation of Broward and Publix Supermarket. Their contributions enable us to continue fighting for the health and beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes.

Get Involved with Eco-Teers

If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of future projects like these, we welcome you to join us. Our work is ongoing, and there’s always an opportunity to lend a hand. To volunteer with Flamingo Gardens and/or Eco-Teers, reach out to us:

[email protected]
[email protected]

We’d love to have you on board as we continue our mission to protect and restore Florida’s unique ecosystems.

Learn More About Ocean Conservancy

Interested in tracking the types of debris found in beach cleanups or want to learn how to get involved? Check out these helpful resources from Ocean Conservancy:

Conclusion

September was a month of incredible achievements for Eco-Teers. From removing hundreds of pounds of invasive plants to cleaning up our coastlines, these events proved how much can be accomplished when communities come together with a shared purpose. As we look forward to future projects, we remain committed to our mission of environmental stewardship, one vine, and one piece of trash at a time.

Eco-teers Tackle Invasive Species and Environmental Cleanup

Saturday, July 6th, 2024 – Invasive Species Removal at Long Key Natural Area

On July 6th, Eco-teers actively engaged in an invasive species removal initiative at Long Key Natural Area and Nature Center. Our volunteers dedicated three hours to the careful extraction of an estimated 250-300 pounds of snake plants from their roots. Snake plants, notorious for their invasive nature once established in soil, possess a rapid spreading capability that threatens our native flora. These plants form very compact infestations and create their own monoculture, making them a significant threat to the local ecosystem.

How You Can Safely Remove Snake Plants from Your Backyard

If you have snake plants in your backyard, here’s how you can safely remove them:

  1. Pull or dig out all the roots, which look like carrots. Be careful, as these plants break easily and can reappear if not pulled from the root.
  2. Pull down any vines or clusters attached to the plants.
  3. Shovel out the roots from the ground to ensure complete removal.

According to the University of Florida, “The mother-in-law’s tongue and S. hyacinthoides are two varieties of snake plants that are considered invasive. The UF/IFAS north-central-south Florida zone assessment considers this group of plants to have a high invasion risk.” Learn more from the University of Florida here.

Friday, July 19th, 2024 – Cleanup at Eula Johnson State Park and Dania Beach

On Friday, July 19th, the Eco-teers spent three hours cleaning Eula Johnson State Park and Dania Beach. Despite the rain and small turnout, they managed to collect 30.6 pounds of microplastics and other waste. These items harm the natural environment by disrupting nutrient cycling, sediment structure, and microbial communities. They also pose a threat to wildlife and contribute to the gradual contamination of our food sources.

Saturday, July 20th, 2024 – Extreme Weather Training in North Miami

On Saturday, July 20th, Ashley Vieira, our Eco-teer Coordinator, and Melissa Auld, Sr. Director of Operations, attended the Extreme Weather Training in North Miami. This event was presented by the CLEO Institute in partnership with the Miami-Dade Department of Emergency Management, Miami-Dade County CERT, and Miami Climate Alliance. The training focused on life-saving strategies to thrive in extreme heat, storms, and other weather challenges, equipping our team with valuable knowledge to better serve our community in times of need.

Join Us!

Join us in our efforts to protect and preserve our natural environments! Together, we can make a difference. For those looking to join EcoTeers/Flamingo Garden’s Volunteers, our coordinator will be attending the “Back to School” booth on August 3rd from 10 AM to 3 PM at Sunrise Athletic Complex, located at 11501 NW 44th Street, Sunrise, 33351.

Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming events and initiatives.