The amazing variety of ecosystems on Virginia Key - from seagrass beds offshore to mangrove forests and hammock - make it one of our communities most significant resources for environmental education and recreation.
But protecting the ecology and native biodiversity of this unique barrier island off the coast of a major, metropolitan area is a constant challenge. Volunteers, whether on the ground - planting natives or removing exotics - or in the commission meetings - advocating before public officials - can make a difference. And often, have been the only thing that has.
Citizens for a Better South Florida, one of several groups bringing students and volunteers to the island for workdays and environmental education speaks frankly of what’s at stake and what to do about it:
“...(N)atural coastal areas, with their beautiful vistas, sea breezes, and access to the ocean, are severely threatened by development across the globe. Virginia Key is no exception. On several occasions, various groups have attempted to develop large tracts of Virginia Key for private projects. Fortunately the project was halted by citizens concerned that public land was being misappropriated for private projects, as much of Virginia Key is designated as public park land....
Across south Florida's coastline, public access to coastal areas has been severely restricted by private development. Already, much of Biscayne Bay is off limits to the public. Any citizen concerned with their ability to access, enjoy, and preserve our remaining beautiful coastline found at Virginia Key should voice their concerns and participate....”
Volunteering in the native plant nursery on Virginia Key is one important way to contribute to protecting the biodiversity of the island. Volunteers work with naturalists and the City of Miami staff to propagate native plants, remove exotics, clean the coastline and plant natives in the coastal hammock and dunes.
Information on volunteer opportunities and Virginia Key can be found on the Citizens for a Better South Florida website: http://www.abettersouthflorida.org/VirginiaKey.html
Photo: Reclamation project, Xavier Cortada works with volunteers to replant mangroves on Virginia Key and Key Biscayne
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On Facebook: Friends of Virginia Key
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