DDWS funds butterfly garden at refuge
With the help and guidance of J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge volunteer, Florida Friendly landscape professional and advanced Master Naturalist Barb Wyskowski, donors have helped the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) fund butterfly gardens around the entry ramp and The Roost at the Visitor & Education Center on Sanibel. Phase 1 includes butterfly-friendly vegetation planted by staff, interns and volunteers. Signs at the ramp will identify butterflies and educate visitors on how to attract butterflies to their yards. Phase 2 will consist of a Children’s Learning Garden with interactive exhibits; it is currently in the design phase. Under the Administration Building, a screened space will be created to educate about refuge habitat — demonstrating four different eco-systems: coastal, ocean, estuary and uplands. More educational signage, three dimensional wall sculptures and hands-on activities, plus picnic tables, will provide space and enrichment for visiting schools and families. Work on Phase 1 has begun and is expected to be completed by mid-May. Work on the other phases will be ongoing.