A FIRST FOR FLORIDA!

Broward County Wins National Certification For Wildlife Habitat and Conservation

Broward County’s dedication to environmental excellence is now recognized by one of the largest environmental organizations in the nation. Broward County is one of only two counties in the nation to be certified as a Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The NatureScape task force group will meet on Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. at the Broward County Governmental Center, 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 430, Fort Lauderdale to celebrate this national certification. A special informative presentation is planned.

NWF recognizes geographical areas that meet criteria of protecting and conserving natural resources. Broward County earned points through its education and certification program called NatureScape Broward. NatureScape teaches residents, schools, and businesses to incorporate low-maintenance, Florida-friendly landscaping principles and create habitats for native and migrating wildlife. Broward certified more than 800 homes, 14 schools, and 70 public areas such as businesses and parks – far exceeding requirements for NWF certification.

Mayor Kristin Jacobs set out a plan for Broward County to achieve the certification when the NatureScape program was in its infancy. She knew the county was up to the task. “I’m pleased that Broward County’s commitment to protecting our environment is being recognized nationally,” she said. “Our residents deserve to be acknowledged for their caring support of this community and this is the perfect way to show the nation what can be done with education and action.” Mayor Jacobs has declared 2005 as the “Year of the Environment.”

Part of that support came from the friendly competition between Coconut Creek and Wilton Manors to become the first Florida city certified as a smaller NWF Community Wildlife Habitat. Coconut Creek was awarded certification this summer, which contributed points toward Broward County’s award. The NatureScape Makeover contest to give away a NatureScape yard makeover also ran during September; the winner will be announced in November. Interest has been huge! More than 500 people submitted entries for the makeover contest.

Broward met other NWF requirements with ongoing public education and community projects that teach NatureScape principles, such as:

• The launch of NatureScape’s new interactive teaching web site launch in September
• The Third Annual Water Matters Day event, which drew more than 2,200 visitors in March
• Volunteer environmental clean-ups and habitat restoration
• How-to classes on NatureScape principles for the public and County employees
• NatureScape informational brochures and event displays to spread the conservation message
• Training more than 30 volunteers as Habitat Stewards
• Media exposure through newspaper, television, and radio

NatureScape is a program of the Broward County Commission Water Resources Division.