Anastasia Island Environmental Stewardship awards, tiny forest update highlighted volunteer conservation

The commission recognized community environmental work Nov. 4 as CPAC presented the 2025 Anastasia Island Environmental Stewardship Awards and staff described a new tiny-forest planting project.

Karen Candler, chair of the Community Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC), presented awards honoring volunteer stewardship that protects island natural resources. Awardees included Meghan Holder (Mother Stewards) for organizing beach, dune and native-plant conservation efforts and Maureen Heenan for volunteer work with Matanzas Riverkeeper and coastal cleanups. Presenters thanked volunteers and described educational outreach and social-media efforts tied to the awards.

Separately, staff reported on a completed "tiny forest" (also referred to as a Milwaukee/Miami method planting) at the northeast corner of 4th Avenue and D Street. The project installed roughly 72 species and about 150 plants, used volunteer labor that reduced contractor costs, and included a temporary drip-irrigation system and signage asking the public to avoid the planting area while plants establish for six months to a year. Staff said the project came in under budget and recommended leaving temporary flags and gates in place until the plants are established; a permanent sign is expected by the end of the month.

The commission thanked organizers and volunteers. Staff provided the project location for members of the public and encouraged residents to visit the site once plantings are established.