Friends of Fakahatchee Inc.

Friends of Fakahatchee Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial and volunteer support for the preservation of the unique ecology and cultural heritage of the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. The organization aims to educate the public about the importance of this preserve.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of Friends of Fakahatchee is to conserve and protect the diverse ecosystems within the park. The Fakahatchee Strand Preserve is a significant habitat for various threatened species, including the Florida panther, Florida black bear, American crocodile, wood stork, mangrove fox squirrel, and the Everglades mink. It is renowned as the "orchid capital of the United States," hosting 47 native orchids. The preserve also features a mosaic of habitats such as cypress forests, wet prairies, tropical hardwood hammocks, salt marsh, mangroves, sloughs, and royal palms.

The organization supports activities like guided tram rides, swamp walks, and the maintenance of the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, which allows visitors to experience the untouched beauty of old-growth cypress forests. By participating in these activities or becoming a member, individuals contribute to the preservation of this unique natural and cultural landscape.

Governance

The organization is governed by a board of directors, which includes several key members such as Virginia Palmer Skok, John Kaiser, Glen Stacell, Phil McGuire, Eric Foht, Tom Trotta, Wally Baldwin, Kevin Cunniff, and Debra Taylor. The board ensures a formal orientation process for new members and oversees the organization's policies regarding ethics and transparency. The governance structure emphasizes inclusivity and diversity in recruitment.

Recognition and Support

Friends of Fakahatchee Inc. is recognized for its efforts in preserving a critical part of the Everglades ecosystem. The organization encourages community involvement and support through various engagement opportunities, fostering a strong bond between the public and the preserve's rich ecological heritage.