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Health & Fitness

University of Florida/IFAS Presenters Teach About Estuary Friendly Living

On December 14, I was delighted to watch presenters Brian Niemann and Libby Carnahan from the University of Florida/IFAS, Pinellas County Extension, enlighten attendees of the Estuary-Friendly Living event about preventing pollution of our estuaries. Following the presentation, the pair led a canoe trip to explore the local water trails near Weedon Island. 

Niemann and Carnahan began by explaining exactly what an estuary is and why estuaries are important. A body of water where salt water meets fresh water, an estuary such as Tampa Bay supports the diversity of coastal species and resources along with providing us with opportunities for recreation. (Estuaries in Gulfport include Clam Bayou and Boca Ciega Bay.) 

Niemann and Carnahan outlined some of the ways in which we can help to protect estuaries. Obviously avoiding littering is critical to keep from polluting our waters. 

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The pair cautions not to release pets into the wild where their waste will contribute to pollution. Consistently picking up pet waste keeps manure from dissolving into the water as well. 

In addition, Niemann and Carnahan suggest participating in volunteer activities such as the coastal cleanups and Sustainable Floridians program. To find out more about the Sustainable Floridians, contact Ramona Madhosingh-Hector at 727-582-2656. 

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Niemann and Carnahan also urge Floridians to save fresh water. In our area, we use most water on watering landscaping. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program can offer ideas and techniques to plan landscapes to save on water. You can register for the January 4 workshop on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ here. 

The two experts further advise that we must remember to properly dispose of chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, and furniture polish, along with prescriptions, rather than flushing them down toilets. More information about disposing of chemicals and medications in Pinellas County is located here. 

Finally, when boating, the two remind us to avoid accelerating to overly fast speeds, scraping the bottom in shallow water, and dumping sewage into the water. In boating and other outdoor activities, always be sure to “leave no trace.” 

Canoeing on the water turned out to be a gloriously peaceful activity. We split into pairs with one skilled canoer in each boat along with one novice as we crossed the water and navigated the mosquito canals, originally dug for mosquito prevention. On our return, the wind whipped up the water just enough to put a little adventure into the trip. 

Niemann and Carnahan say they plan to lead another trip in April. You can find a list of the current programs and events at Weedon here.

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