City volunteer receives North American Invasive Species award

City of Fernandina Beach
By Kathy Russell
Parks & Rec Manager
October 13, 2020

Beverly Lawrence receives Florida Invasive Species Partnership Coordinator Award from Emily Bell, Florida Invasive Species Partnership Coordinator, University of Florida IFAS

A huge congratulations to Bev Lawrence and her crew in Fernandina Beach! Bev was recently awarded the North American Invasive Species Management Association’s (NAISMA’s) Special Recognition Award. This award goes to an organization or individual who, through a specific act or group of acts, helped amplify NAISMA’s mission: to support, promote, and empower invasive species prevention and management in North America. Bev has spurred outreach and volunteer efforts with many agency partners including the City of Fernandina Beach, Nassau County UF IFAS Extension, Florida Invasive Species Partnership, First Coast Invasive Working Group, US Army Corps of Engineers, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and dedicated, passionate community members.

These efforts are particularly important for the Brazilian peppertree and Russian Thistle. Amelia Island is on the northern edge of Brazilian Pepper’s current range and eradication on the island is possible with public support. Given the current extent of Russian thistle on Amelia Island’s beaches, with dedicated volunteer work, it may also be possible to eradicate this species from the island as well. Bev helped organize community work days on the beaches to remove Russian thistle and participates regularly in the City’s efforts to control invasive plant species. Her efforts have increased awareness of invasives and their impacts on natural areas.

If you would like to participate in future invasive plant control events, contact Kathy Russell, Parks and Recreation Department at [email protected]

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Mark Tomes
Trusted Member
Mark Tomes(@mtomes)
3 years ago

Congratulations, Bev! An award well-deserved.

Lynda Bell
Lynda Bell(@lyndabell)
3 years ago

Congratulations Bev!! Great work and teamwork!