WABASSO — The Environmental Learning Center was a beehive of activity on Sunday, as visitors were invited to Go Native! at the 18th annual EcoFest Open House Extravaganza, which highlighted plants, animals and ecosystems unique to Florida.
With parents and grandparents close behind, little ones darted here and there along the winding paths and boardwalks of the 64-acre campus, not wanting to miss even one of the numerous activities.
Under blue skies and bright sunshine, families arrived in droves, many taking advantage of shuttle busses picking up from five different locations.
The event began earlier in the day this year, spreading out the thousands of people who came to enjoy a free, fun-filled afternoon of crafts, educational exhibits offered by the ELC and numerous other nature and animal based nonprofits, music by the River Rats Band and plenty of food.
Children were encouraged to tap into their eco-knowledge with questions posed by volunteers along the way and into their inner artist with craft tables where they could create all variety of masterpieces.
Crafts included bookmarks, leaf rubbings, bright green crowns made of native coffee leaves, woven bracelets, pendants, sunflower notecards, bat napkin holders, Florida panther origami, alligator magnets, painting rocks, rope woven from cattails and more.
Earlier in the year, all elementary school aged children had been challenged to participate in the Making a Difference in My World contest, and colorful entries filled the entire Wetland Room.
“It’s all related to the Go Native theme of EcoFest and it’s coordinated with school curriculum,” said Patty Garrard, who chaired the contest with husband Walter. “We had approximately 1,900 projects; that was wonderful participation.”
Approximately 190 volunteers assisted with the event, which was co-chaired by Pat Casselberry and Maureen Kane and a hard-working committee.
“They are the best volunteers in the entire universe,” said Nancy Puglio, volunteer coordinator. “There’s no way we’d be able to put on an event like this without them.”
Members of the younger generation volunteered as well, with elementary school-aged Environmental Ambassadors luring contestants with a game of Native Bingo, and middle school-aged Junior Interpreters instructing on dip-netting in the pond and helping with the always popular Discovery Station Touch Tank Encounter.
The Sebastian River High School Green Team assisted to set-up and break down the exhibits and with the rock-painting.
“We’ve started earlier for the first time, and between the weather and the fabulous exhibits, I think we may well have a record turnout,” said Kane.
“We should absolutely mention the River Rats,” said Holly Dill ELC executive director. “They’ve been donating their time to play since 1989; before the buildings were even here. They’re amazing; true believers in the cause.”
This was the last year as an employee for Dill, who has held the position since the ELC’s inception 25 years ago, but who recently announced her retirement.
The board now has the difficult task of finding a replacement, but Dill said she will remain to ensure a smooth transition.
“Next year I get to come and have fun,” said Dill. “I’m going to enjoy the natural resources that I’ve been working for years to preserve.”
