A contingent from Monroe County government visited one of the more unusual destinations in the Florida Everglades on Oct. 19.
Located within Everglades National Park, Flamingo is part of mainland Monroe County and offers a completely different side of the county from the Florida Keys.
Flamingo has undergone a transformation in recent years after reconstruction following the past decade of hurricanes. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida Bay and the Everglades, the remote destination features waterfront accommodations, a restaurant, a marina, wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures.
Visiting Flamingo were Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln; Cory Schwisow, emergency management director; Kristen Livengood, public information officer; Spenser Bryan, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office captain; Josh Baer, emergency management planner; and Keys Health Ready Coalition’s Megan Bosi.
“When people think of Monroe County, they naturally think of the Florida Keys, but Flamingo is another incredible part of our county that deserves to be discovered,” Lincoln said. “From the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife to the unique accommodations and waterfront dining, Flamingo really is a hidden gem. We are fortunate to have this special place right here in Monroe County.”
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provided transportation, giving the group an opportunity to experience the waterways connecting the Florida Keys and mainland Monroe County while learning more about the remote region.
The visit also strengthened relationships between Monroe County, the National Park Service, FWC and other public safety partners.
“Coordination is especially important in remote areas of the county, where marine transportation, emergency communications and interagency cooperation play a critical role in public safety,” Schwisow said.
An unexpected reminder of marine safety importance came during the boat trip. FWC officers received a call about a vessel taking on water after its engine broke away from the transom. The group saw firsthand how FWC and other agencies work quickly together to keep boaters safe. Everyone aboard the distressed vessel was safe.
Monroe County thanked FWC Lt. Jeremy Foell and officers Jason Richards, Shawn Turner, and Alex Allen for their assistance with “Operation Flamingo,” as well as the National Park Service for welcoming the delegation and showcasing this special part of Monroe County.
More information is at www.nps.gov/ever and www.flamingoeverglades.com.
