One of the longest-running lecture series in the Upper Keys, “The Delicate Balance of Nature,” begins its 35th season on Jan. 26 at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Erinn Muller, Mote Marine Laboratory associate vice president for research, program manager for coral health and disease and senior scientist, will present “Beyond the Bleaching: Resilience, Restoration and Banking on Coral’s Future.”
Though the lectures will remain focused on natural topics of interest, this year brings an expansion of the program, which will change to a monthly presentation, generally on the fourth Monday.
Also new this year is a pre-lecture reception hosted by the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. The reception will start at 6:30 p.m., with the lecture beginning at 7:30 p.m. Presentations this season highlight coral reefs, flamingos and lionfish, among other topics.
“This lecture series is a great way for people to learn about the conservation issues impacting coastal ecosystems. We are grateful to our speakers who make it possible for us to provide high-quality interpretive programs for the residents and visitors of Key Largo and the Florida Keys,” said park manager Shane Zigler.
“Hosting this series is just one of the many ways that the friends group supports the parks,” said Ann Helmers, president of the group. “We are excited by the opportunity to welcome members and guests to learn more about these unique marine and land-based environments.”
Presentations are sponsored by the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. The series will be held at the visitor center and aquarium building at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located at MM 102.6 oceanside.
There is no charge to enter the park to attend the lectures.
More information is available from Elena Muratori, park services specialist, at 305-676-3786. More information on state parks is at floridastateparks.org. The friends group is a volunteer nonprofit corporation supporting conservation and stewardship and enhancing environmental, educational and recreational experiences at John Pennekamp and Dagny Johnson state parks. More information is at pennekampparkfriends.org.
