FEBRURAY 2002

Page 8

In our neighborhood we have a rare environmental gem.  It is a beautiful 10-acre wetlands pocketed between Lakemoore condos, Land O'Lakes drive and Emma Lane.  These wetlands act as a natural filter for the small creek that flows through it and spills into Nancy Creek.

It is home to beavers, otters, wood ducks, mink, a blue heron and a host of migrating birds.  The wetlands are upstream from our own Blue Heron Preserve and much of the wildlife travels back and forth. 

Currently, the wetlands are privately owned by Howard Patterson.  The neighborhood has ongoing concerns about the property being developed.  Nancy Pritchett, who led the effort to create the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, says, "I personally would like to see the wetlands permanently protected and be a part of the existing Blue Heron Preserve.   As a community

I would like us to reach a consensus to protect this land forever for us to enjoy and to protect habitat for our urban wildlife." 

The Blank Foundation is offering a grant for greenspace acquisition.  The preliminary proposal is due February 1st.  This grant is a challenge grant meaning we need matching funding.  Any one with ideas on possible funding please contact Nancy Pritchett (404-252-8807, nancyjljones@hotmail.com). 

This initiative needs neighborhood support! The Morningside community was able to rally support to create the Wildwood Forest; we too can generate support and contributions to save our wetlands.  Erika Archibald is working with Nancy to write the first proposal but this is just the first phase.  If we make the first acceptance another grant with a show of funding must be completed by April.

SAWHORSE REMODELING