Polk County Extension
Environment & Natural Resources

Brief Description of Program

Works with volunteers in Polk and Hillsborough County in the LAKEWATCH program, a University of Florida based program to monitor lakes and gather monthly data to build an extensive database and profile of lakes.  This effort includes training volunteers to collect samples and monitor lakes, periodic meetings and workshops, and publishing a bimonthly newsletter, Life on the Water.  Other programs include the rural pond program which is focused on helping property owners manage surface waters. Coordination is also provided for the Homestead and Farmstead Assessment programs which encourages property owners to use best management practices to reduce risk of contamination to groundwater.

Additional collaborative efforts with other agencies and organizations, working in natural resource management and conservation, gives special emphasis to helping keep residents informed of the progress of the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, Ecosystem Management, Greenways, Lakes Education, and aquatic plant management techniques.

Educational Background

Experience