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BOOK A FAF •� <br />to remove some slash pines. These projects will be undertaken with the assistance of the <br />Fish & Wildlife Service and the Department of Forestry. <br />Student Karenee Grier stated that the students are learning about the environment <br />as it has been affected by man. They understand that government develops rules and <br />regulations to prevent the destruction of natural habitats while making certain that its citizens <br />have what they need to live. Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt, on a recent visit, noted that <br />conservation takes a lot of money but the students are hoping the Board will see how <br />children can help to save one of the last great places on this earth. <br />Student Richelle Henf emphasized that it is important to protect the assets found in <br />our own backyard and purchasing the property is a part of the solution. <br />Richard Henf, Richelle's father, thanked the Board for providing the children with <br />the opportunity to share their idea which will benefit current and future generations. He <br />explained that a peanut was the impetus for the idea. Richelle and her sister came to him <br />saying they were bored and he asked them what they would like to do and Richelle suggested <br />a trip to the Pelican Island nature trail. <br />Mr. Henf continued that his belief had always been that nature could take care of <br />itself. However, witnessing Richelle's enthusiasm and her desire to bring peanuts to feed <br />the scrub jays provided him with food for thought. When they arrived at the trail, he was <br />introduced to "Speedy", a resident gopher tortoise whose shell has been repaired with <br />fiberglass. He also was introduced to the rosemary plant and was astonished to discover that <br />this small plant was about 50 years old. The children also taught him not to leave the trail <br />or walk on the grass, respecting the private property rights of others. Richelle then <br />NOVEMBER 16, 1999 <br />. <br />-110- <br />