In addition to learning the basics of invasive plant removal, participants will help restore a wetland area by removing this plant. Visit this largely unimpacted wetland in Florida's Lake Proctor Wilderness Area and learn about a baseline study of macroinvertebrates being conducted at the site. Dana Denson from the Florida Department of Environmental protection will present results of the study and will demonstrate techniques used to characterize macroinvertebrates using the site and to track seasonal changes in their populations. This trip will involve visiting a local wetland, demonstrations of a variety of techniques, and a chance for participants to try these techniques first-hand. If time permits, the group will visit a second treatment wetland that incorporates both constructed and natural wetlands to treat wastewater effluent from Orange County's Easterly Waste Water Treatment Plant.
Boardwalks offer interesting wildlife viewing opportunities at both sites.
An introduction to the topic of wetland conservation. Learn about wetland ecology, functions and values, regulations and government programs to protect wetland, monitoring, restoration, and education projects. Secrets of Successful Project Management Learn how to initiate and manage projects from volunteer recruitment and fundraising to media relations and the value of partnerships. The Wonders of Wetlands.