Saturday, Jan. 10 started with kayaks and a clear plan. Teens from a local group home joined Sarasota Bay Watch to put real conservation into practice at the 104-acre Jim Neville Marine Preserve.
Volunteers planted young native trees that will ultimately replace invasive Australian pines. Crews also stacked downed wood into habitat piles, built simple log benches and improved trails.
This work is part of a broader naturalization effort. Teams are replacing invasive plants with pollinator-friendly species, berry- and seed-producing shrubs at higher elevations, and salt-tolerant vegetation near the waterline. To make the preserve accessible for all, teams are extending and clearly marking walking paths while removing trip hazards and overhanging limbs.
Volunteers and teens got their hands dirty with physical work that required strong communication, problem-solving and safe tool handling, with immediate results they could see. Sarasota Bay Watch offers unique opportunities for team building; please contact Executive Director Ronda Ryan to discuss.
Jim Neville Marine Preserve is changing before our eyes as native species return and youth help lead that change. Thank you to the staff, volunteers and the teens who showed up ready to learn and lead.