Sebastian board advances invasive-species work at Filbert Street Park; air potato roundup set for Feb. 14, 2026

The City of Sebastian Natural Resources Board on Nov. 4 discussed next steps for removing invasive plants at Filbert Street Park and confirmed plans for an Air Potato Roundup on Feb. 14, 2026.

Board chair Felicia Ware said an urban-forestry grant had been reallocated to Filbert Street Park to support removal of dense stands of Brazilian pepper and other invasive exotics, with native trees to be planted after removal. "There are a lot a lot of Brazilian peppers," Ware said, describing the work as an early-phase effort that will focus on the edges surrounding trails and roadside areas.

Richard Blankenship, the city’s Parks, Recreation and Facilities director, identified Integrity Tree as the contractor assisting with removal and noted crews began work the week of the meeting. Ware said the work is not intended to remove every Brazilian pepper at the site immediately: "It won't be perfect. It won't be the entirety of all the Brazilian pepper that's in the park because, unfortunately, it's gotten quite overgrown."

The board discussed on-site considerations: there are gopher tortoise burrows in the park and staff said they hope habitat will improve for tortoises once invasive cover is removed. Ware said root removal is part of the contractor’s plan and that staff had already observed root systems being uprooted during initial work.

Separately, the board advanced planning for an Air Potato Roundup on Feb. 14, 2026. Board members said Pelican Island Audubon Society will act as a partner for outreach and distribution of postcards at community fundraisers and events, and the city expects coordination with the solid-waste department to provide a dumpster on event day. Organizers also discussed awards and shirts for volunteers and exploring biological control options; Dan reported plans to contact the Florida Department of Agriculture about sourcing air beetles.

Board members urged proactive volunteer recruitment, including outreach to local schools, Boys & Girls Club and Girl Scout troops for service hours. Ware said postcards and posters are being developed and will be promoted through the city’s social media channels and marquee sign.

What’s next: staff will continue contract supervision of removal work at Filbert Street Park and proceed with event planning for the Feb. 14 Air Potato Roundup. The city will provide event notices as postcards and through partner channels.