On Jan. 23, Coastal Watch hosted a mangrove potting event at the Children’s Education Center of the Islands on Sanibel. A group of 16 students ages 2-4 — the youngest participants to date in Coastal Watch’s Adopt-a-Mangrove program — planted the seedings in decorated pots. Under the guidance of their teacher, the youth will assume the role of caretakers for the plants throughout the spring season. Coastal Watch reported that the event aimed to educate the children about the importance of mangrove forests and the ecosystems they provide for manatees, birds and other species in Southwest Florida.