tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:forum-7573128Nabble - ANNOUNCEMENTS, INFORMATION AND HELP2024-03-28T23:24:18Ztag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-7573115YOU MUST BE A MEMBER to post New Topics and Replies but GOOD NEWS2013-10-05T09:57:33Z2013-10-18T07:54:48ZNewMexiKen
YOU MUST BE A MEMBER to post New Topics and Replies but GOOD NEWS <img class='smiley' src='/images/smiley/anim_jump.gif' /><br/><br/><b>Because of the vicious spam attacks I have reluctantly limited posting to those who are "Members" of the FORUM.
<br/><br/>This means that if you are not a "Member" and you attempt to post a new topic or reply to an existing one, you will be prompted to request Membership, which requires approval by the Administrators of this FORUM. We will make every attempt to approve your request as soon as possible.
<br/><br/>To request Membership, simply enter your e-mail address and create a password into the box that pops up when you attempt to post or reply to a post. This will notify the Administrator (Ken) of your request. Please remember your password.
<br/><br/>The GOOD NEWS is that all who are presently registered or subscribed to receive posts from this FORUM as well as all users who have posted in the past, except anyone who has been banned (i.e., spammers and abusers) have already been granted "Membership." Since this had to be done manually there may be some errors or omissions, so please accept my apology if you must request membership despite having posted in the past.
<br/><br/>ALL VISITORS may freely read the posts and archived messages, and are welcome to request MEMBERSHIP by following the above procedure.
<br/><br/>IF YOU HAVE ANY TROUBLE OR NEED ASSISTANCE IN REGISTERING PLEASE <a href="mailto:ken@rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">CONTACT ME DIRECTLY AT THIS LINK.</a><br/></b>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-7573102COMMENT SPAM PROBLEM2013-09-24T15:57:00Z2013-09-25T07:52:10ZNewMexiKen
This FORUM has been open to all users, but lately it has been besieged by comment spam from unregistered users.
<br/><br/>The only way to reduce this problem is to restrict comments to registered users only. It is very easy to register, and you may do this anonymously if you wish. Most of us use pseudonyms when we register anyway.
<br/><br/>I ask that all registered users refrain from including external commercial or advertising links from their posts in order not to be BANNED from posting.
<br/><br/>If any of you are concerned that you may have been banned in error, please contact me through the "rosyfinch.com" Web page contact link or <a href="mailto:ken@rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">here</a>.
<br/><br/>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-7572911How to include photos in your post2013-01-16T05:32:19Z2013-01-16T05:32:19ZNewMexiKen
It is actually quite easy to post images, <b>provided you are signed into the FORUM</b>. The images should be in JPEG or JPG format. (Other file types may also be accepted, but not RAW images). There are two basic ways to include photos in your post:
<br/><br/><b>1. Post photo from your computer. </b><br/><br/>Load them unto your computer and know how to find their location in the disk. You should crop and edit the photo as desired, and save it with a file name that is easily recognized.
<br/><br/>Just click on the "Insert Image" button above your post, and then select "Choose File." This will allow you to search your hard drive and select the desired photo. After you select your image, you need to re-size it as it will probably be too big to display on the computer screen. Pick the "Medium" or "Big" size and allow the image to "float." Then click on "Insert Image." This places a line of Nabble code in your message. You can then select "Preview Message" to view the image and be sure it looks the way you want it to. If OK, then simply "Post Message."
<br/><br/><br/><b>2. Post photos from an Internet Web page.</b><br/><br/>If your image is already on an internet photo sharing web page such as FLICKR, simply copy the image's web location (URL). The image must be in JPG or JPEG format, so do not simply copy it directly from its initial presentation format. In FLICKR, left click on the photo and choose the desired size image-- 640 or 800 px works fine. Then display the chosen size-- this will now have a URL that ends in .jpg-- simply right-click to copy the image's URL. Paste the URL into the box in the FORUM "Insert Image" menu.
<br/><br/><b>Again, in order to see the photo posting menu you must register into the FORUM using the link at the top of the web page. You may remain anonymous.</b>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-7366416Finding the Pembroke Pines Eagle Nest2012-03-12T11:32:08Z2012-03-12T11:32:08ZNewMexiKen
<i>The following information was prepared by Barry Heimlich and posted earlier. I have corrected some problems with the formatting of the message. Ken
<br/></i><br/><b>Location:</b> The nest is located in Pembroke Pines, Florida in a tall Australian Pine Tree, about 150’-200’ south of Pines Blvd. between 208th and 209th Avenues.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/Nest_Location.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><b>Parking:</b> Parking is allowed on the shoulder and off the road of the westbound side of Pines Blvd. between 208th and 209th Avenues. Parking is not allowed on the south side of Pines Boulevard. Parking is prohibited on the shoulders of NW 209th and 208th Avenues (north of Pines Boulevard).
<br/><br/><b>Viewing Spot:</b> One of the best viewing spots is on the north side of Pines Blvd. about 12’ to 15’ (4 to 5 paces) west of the School Zone sign (photo below) at the beginning of the westbound right turn lane heading toward the intersection of 209th Avenue.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/School_Zone_Sign_sm.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><b>Finding the Nest:</b> Looking south, preferably with binoculars, find the Nest Tree, which is a tall 3-stemmed Australian Pine Tree about 150’ back from the road, slightly to the left of the No Parking sign. The nest is in the crotch of the tree where the large stems of the tree meet.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/Nest_Tree.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><b>See The photo below.</b> Another spotting aid is the yellow curly-cue on the third power line wire from the top. The curly-cues were installed by FPL to help the eagles see and avoid hitting the power lines. The nest can be seen just below and slightly to the left of the curly-cue. The nest is just above the top of a Melaleuca Tree that is in front of the Nest Tree. At times the top of the Melaleuca Tree sways in the wind and blocks the view of the Nest.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/CurleyCue.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><b>Appearance of the Nest:</b> The Nest is a large construction of horizontally aligned branches in the crotch of the tree. You may or may not see the adult eagles or the eaglet, but be patient. The eaglet often sticks its head up to look for its parents. Rarely does a half hour go by before at least one of the adult eagles comes to the nest, usually with prey to feed the baby. The presence of an adult makes sighting the nest much easier because of its large size, dark brown nearly black body, and its snow white head and tail.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/Bald-Eagle-%2526-chick-120219-2b.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><b>Keep Your Eyes Open:</b> Watch out for the adult eagles flying to and from the nest and overhead. Sometimes an adult will perch in a branch above the nest or on a nearly tree. Also, the adults often perch on top of one of the dead Malaleuca Trees south of the intersection of 209th Avenue and Pines Blvd. These are large, majestic birds with a 7’ wingspan.
<br/><br/><img src="http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/file/n7366416/IMG_1133b_sm.jpg" border="0"/><br/><br/><br/><br/><br/><br/><br/><br/>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-5990682Pines Boulevard resurfacing Pre-Construction meeting2011-02-03T14:59:41Z2011-02-03T14:59:41ZNewMexiKen
Major resurfacing of Pines Boulevard will take place, beginning around February 14 and extending into the winter of 2011. At a pre-construction meeting on January 27, the contractor provided assurances of measures to be taken to avoid undue disturbance to the eagle nest during breeding season.
<br/><br/>An excerpt:
<br/><br/><b>Bold (sic) Eagle: The topic of preservation of wild life habitat was discussed in length.
<br/><br/>There is an active Bald Eagle nest that is located within the project limits on the south side of roadway. As per contract requirements, no construction work shall be conducted during eagle nesting season, from October 1st through May 15th, between station 44+00(west of 209 Ave) and station 57+20(east of 208 Ave).
<br/><br/>Contractor was advised that No staging or stockpiling equipment or materials will be permitted along the south side of Pines Blvd, between 208th and 209th Ave.
<br/><br/>Antonio Piedra restated that no work is to be done on the restricted area (approximately 1200 ft.) during nesting season (October 1st through May 15th ), including milling/ resurfacing and sidewalk construction. There is a temporary fence marking the restricted area that will be adjusted during construction. Construction schedule is to include the above restrictions.
<br/><br/>Fernando Ascanio, FDOT Construction Environmental Office and Lindsay Nester (FWC) stressed the point that no equipments should operate during the nesting season between 209th and 208th Ave.
<br/><br/><a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/PinesBlvdPreCon-Minutes20110127.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">(Full text of minutes may be obtained at this link) </a></b>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-5864872Quick and easy way to post messages to Sub-Forums2010-12-24T05:33:57Z2010-12-24T05:33:57ZNewMexiKen
Many of you may be aware of this, but it is easy to post observations directly to the Forum using e-mail, without needing to first visit the Forum.
<br/><br/>Simply put the Sub-Forum's e-mail addresses into your address book and send your message.
<br/><br/>Photographs will not display in such messages. Instead, a link will appear in your post that will access any photo.
<br/><br/>Each Sub-Forum has its own individual e-mail address (included within the brackets):
<br/><br/><br/>CURRENT 2010-2011 SEASON DAILY NEST OBSERVATIONS & PHOTOS
<br/><ml-node+5608624-479960262-198665@n2.nabble.com>
<br/><br/>Eagle and Wildlife Events and News From Near and Far
<br/><ml-node+4495122-1039298838-198665@n2.nabble.com>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-5440992Pembroke Pines City Commission acts on eagle protection policies2010-08-19T09:06:37Z2010-08-19T09:06:37ZNewMexiKen
Sharon Williams reported that the conservation policies to protect the eagles were passed by the Pembroke Pines City Commission on first reading and were reviewed favorably by the Florida Department of Community Affairs. The second reading and adoption is scheduled for 9/21/10.
<br/><br/>From the <a href="http://ppines.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=720988&GUID=902437CA-CF0B-464D-B7D8-A0ED15D744D5" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">City of Pembroke Pines Web site</a>:
<br/><br/><b>SUMMARY EXPLANATION AND BACKGROUND (Supporting documents for Agenda of August 18, 2010 City Commission meeting):
<br/><br/>1. At the 4/21/2010 City Commission meeting, The Commission requested staff to prepare an information packet in their motion to pass Proposed Ordinance No. 2010-10 on first reading (2010-10 is now bifurcated into 2010-16ARA and 2010-17ARB Comprehensive Plan text amendments on this evening's agenda).
<br/>
<br/>2. In the spring of 2008, a bald eagle nest was discovered on the City's Chambers plat property on the south side of Pines Boulevard, west of 208th Avenue.
<br/>
<br/>3. In response to concerns of residents to protect the eagles as well as the residents who wanted to view the eagles and eaglets, the Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee was formed. The Steering Committee recommended the creation of an eagle protection ordinance based on many of the guidelines of the FWC management plan (see Exhibit 2).
<br/>
<br/>4. The proposed policies in the Conservation Element (Proposed Ordinance No. 2010-17ARB) are recommended by the Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee and provide the foundation for the creation of an eagle protection ordinance (see exhibit 3). An update to Objective IV and the addition of Policies 4.24 though 4.27(highlighted in Exhibit 3) address this issue.
<br/>
<br/>5. Attached for your information is an <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/PPCommissionExecSumm18AUG2010.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">executive summary</a> prepared by the Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission Bald Eagle management plan.
<br/>
<br/>6. Staff will present to Commission drafts of the proposed ordinance in the near future.</b><br/><br/>= = = = =
<br/><br/>The entire document may be viewed at this <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/PPconservationelementtransmittal.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">link</a> on the main Eagle Watch web page. Here are pertinent excerpts:
<br/><br/><b>Proposed Policies 1.4 and 4.27 have been added pursuant to House Bill 697 and are
<br/>consistent with the Broward County Conservation Element's adopted policies. In addition,
<br/>the City is proposing to modify Objective IV and add policies 4.24 through 4.26 providing
<br/>for the preservation and protection of the city's Bald Eagle active Bald Eagle nest. Tables
<br/>CE-1 and 2 have also been updated.
<br/><br/>In 2007, the City's first active Bald Eagle nest was identified and Proposed Policies 4.24
<br/>through 4.26 have been added to protect and preserve the nest as well as a provide the
<br/>foundation for the adoption of an eagle sanctuary protection ordinance.
<br/><br/>OBJECTIVE IV
<br/>Conserve, protect, maintain or improve native vegetative communities, wildlife
<br/>habitats, wetlands, Bald Eagle nesting sites, and marine habitats through 2015 in
<br/>accordance with Broward County and City of Pembroke Pines standards.
<br/><br/>Policy 4.24 - The City shall protect and preserve Bald Eagle nesting sites and
<br/>promote educational programs for the residents by establishing a Pembroke Pines
<br/>Bald Eagle Sanctuary Protection ordinance to be adopted no later than September
<br/>2011.
<br/><br/>Policy 4.25 - Identify, prioritize, and recommend alternative actions to control public
<br/>access and coordinate with federal, state, regional, county and local agencies to
<br/>explore safe parking options and viewing areas during nesting season.
<br/><br/>Policy 4.26 - Continue to coordinate with the Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee
<br/>in the development of plans and in the identification of funding sources for
<br/>sanctuary activities including the installation of a web cam, public education
<br/>programs, signage, and research.</b><br/><br/>====
<br/><br/>Of interest, the conservation policies contain an updated list of birds which have been sighted in Broward County regional parks. The specific parks in which sightings have taken place are noted.
<br/><br/><br/>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-4710965Through the Door, a Poem by Mildred Heimlich, Dec. 19962010-03-10T10:47:06Z2010-03-10T10:47:06ZBarry Heimlich
Majestic is the eagle who
<br/>Spreads its wings
<br/>To span the land
<br/>And soar.
<br/><br/>Such is the heart with its
<br/>Dream offerings
<br/>That takes a man
<br/>Through the door.
<br/><br/>Last Friday, March 5th, was the 8th anniversary of my mother's death at age 85. She was a poet and wrote many poems, some of which were published. If she had seen these eagles, she surely would have written a poem about them, but since she can't, I'm posting this poem about an eagle she wrote in 14 years ago shortly after I talked to her about my decision to retire early at age 55 after selling my business. Who know then that I'd become an environmental activist and researcher and helping to set up a sanctuary for these eagles.
<br/><br/>My mother loved nature and all that was alive. She was extremely alive and energetic herself. Many remember her, and a few still love her very much, including me. She was my inspiration.
<br/><br/>Barry Heimlich
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-4587372FDOT consults with FWC re nest observation platform and sidewalk2010-02-17T10:29:04Z2010-02-17T10:29:04ZNewMexiKen
On February 10, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in order to initiate consultation concerning its plans to mill and resurface the stretch of Pines Boulevard from US-27 eastward to 196th Avenue. The plan includes a sidewalk that also would pass in front of the Bald Eagle nest site.
<br/><br/>FDOT plans to follow the FWC Bald Eagle Monitoring Guidelines and offers several assurances to protect the nest and roosting sites. Construction near the nest will not occur during the eagles' breeding season (October 1 - May 15), and heavy equipment would not be staged on the block in front of the nest.
<br/><br/>Significantly, FDOT seeks guidance from FWC as to the feasibility of the request by the Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle Steering Committee to provide for an eagle nest viewing platform, roadside parking on the south side of Pines Boulevard, and "Traffic Control Devices, such as roadside barriers to protect pedestrians."
<br/>
<br/>The full letter with diagrams and maps of the proposed project <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/DOT-IMPROVEMENTLETTER.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">may be accessed at this link (PDF).</a>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
</div>
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-4489404Provide comments and suggestions to Eagle Steering Committee2010-01-31T06:27:16Z2010-01-31T06:27:16ZNewMexiKen
Links to events in the history of this nest, as well as minutes and documents related to the work of the Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html#BALD" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">are available here.
<br/></a><br/>The issues involved in protecting, not only the eagles' nest tree and roosting areas, but also their flight corridors and foraging grounds, are complex, varied, and sometimes controversial.
<br/><br/>Please review the Steering Committee documents, and provide relevant comments and suggestions in this Sub-Forum. Also visit the related Eagle Cam Sub-Forum.
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
</div>
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-4486273PLEASE POST IN SUB-FORUMS IF APPPROPRIATE2010-01-30T11:09:56Z2010-01-30T12:22:01ZNewMexiKen
In order to make it easier for us to navigate this FORUM, we now have the posts organized into topical <b>Sub-Forums</b>, listed above this message. With experience, the number and clarity of definition of these categories will be refined. In the meantime, if your subject <b>CLEARLY</b> fits one of the established categories above, please click on its folder and post it there.
<br/><br/>If not, or if you are uncertain, just don't worry about categorizing it and post to the general "miscellaneous" list below. Eventually, new categories will be added, and your post may be moved to one of them. In fact, by doing it this way we can see ways to improve the Sub-Forum categories.
<br/><br/>Our Pembroke Pines Eagle Watch Forum has grown quite rapidly. It now contains over 300 Topic threads, many with several follow-up posts, and has attracted more than 55,000 views. The Forum started out simply as a tool for eagle watchers to report happenings at the nest and coordinate their schedules to provide better on-site coverage and interpretation during times of peak visitation of the nest site. It evolved to include a wide range of interesting topics, mostly relating to Bald Eagles and other raptors, issues of habitat protection and general conservation.
<br/><br/>As a direct result of the active concerns of eagle watchers, the Mayor of the City of Pembroke Pines threw his support behind an effort to preserve the nest tree property as a Bald Eagle Sanctuary.
<br/><br/><b>If you have questions about the new Sub-Forums, and, particularly if you have suggestions about how to best organize the Sub-Forums, such as new categories, clearer category titles and descriptions, please reply to this post. That way we can all work on making this an even more interesting and useful resource for eagle watchers and all lovers of nature who read and use this Forum.
<br/></b>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
</div>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-4037631Ongoing concerns about restrictions at nest site2009-11-20T05:44:47Z2009-11-20T05:44:47ZNewMexiKen
Yes, Jill, this is a difficult situation for all parties. As eagle watchers, we saw the threats to the safety of observers who gathered at the very edge of the highway, as well as to those in vehicles who slowed down or stopped in the traffic lanes.
<br/><br/>The Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee members met with FDOT in hopes of a solution that would separate the viewers from vehicle traffic. FDOT agreed to consider construction of a viewing area as part of its existing plan to put a sidewalk on the south side of Pines Boulevard. Unfortunately, the planning, approval and funding process cannot produce results before mid-2011.
<br/><br/>Among the complications are the lack of parking and the fact that the intersection at Pines and 209th is not engineered to permit a protected pedestrian crosswalk. This problem also has to be remedied before a sidewalk can be constructed.
<br/><br/>See the <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/FDOTMinutes20090909.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">minutes of the Steering Committee's September 9, 2009 meeting with FDOT at this link</a>. FDOT made it clear that it did not wish to encourage or create parking on the right-of way, which extends 50 feet on either side of the highway.
<br/><br/>In view of the extended planning horizon, we asked FDOT to consider some type of temporary wall (such as water-filled barrels or sectional barriers) that would allow for a breakdown lane and also keep nest observers off the shoulder of the road.
<br/><br/>FDOT's position was that such a barrier would itself cause a traffic hazard, as it would limit the space available for collision avoidance:
<br/><br/><i><b>"Ken Schneider highlighted his experience with visitors to the site. He mentioned the difficulty of finding parking, speed limit violations, the crossing of Pines Blvd by pedestrians, and how children and pets are present.
<br/><br/>"It was suggested that the Department place a barrier on the south side to protect pedestrians. However, the Department stated that placing a barrier in the right of way is a clear zone issue and was more of a hazard than a benefit as vehicles on the road would not have the ability to break should the need occur." </b></i><br/><br/>As unhappy as I was at the outcome of this meeting, I left with the feeling that the public safety issues were indeed very complex, and that FDOT felt a sincere responsibility to safely accommodate viewers. The extended planning horizon was the greatest disappointment.
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3764397Who "owns" the eagles?2009-10-04T09:16:47Z2009-10-04T09:16:47ZNewMexiKen
<i><b>When a pair of Bald Eagles decided to set up housekeeping in a tall Australian Pine just off busy Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines, Florida, they initiated an interesting chain of events...</b><br/></i><br/>» Read full article on <a href="http://blog.rosyfinch.com/?p=264" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">[Rosyfinch Ramblings]</a>
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3686115Opportunity to provide comments to FDOT on plans for design of sidewalk/viewing platform2009-09-21T08:27:38Z2009-09-21T08:27:38ZNewMexiKen
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) plans to construct a pedestrian sidewalk for the south side of Pines Blvd. from US 27th to 208th Ave. One consideration would be an elevated viewing platform.
<br/><br/>According to the <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/FDOTMeeting.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">FDOT report of our September 9th meeting</a>, <i><b>"The Department has agreed to re-evaluate plans for the sidewalk, "to see if any opportunities exist in terms of the eagles and pedestrian safety..."
<br/><br/>"... FDOT Planning and Environmental Management will coordinate with the design Project Manager, Henry Oaikhena to see if some type of viewing platform/elevated sidewalk can be incorporated into his Pines Blvd resurfacing project (construction is scheduled to begin in June 2011)."</b></i><br/><br/>Keep in mind that the entire grassy swale from the edge of the highway, to within a few feet of the temporary chain-link fence is under FDOT jurisdiction. Parking and safe pedestrian crossing issues will also need to be resolved in coordination with the City of Pembroke Pines.
<br/><br/>The project timeframe is June 2011, depending on approval of environmental concerns (wetland & eagle) with the agencies (SFWMD, USFWS, and FWC).
<br/><br/>David Bogardus, Senior Environmental Specialist with FDOT District 4 Planning & Environmental Management will consider any comments readers may have concerning the design of the sidewalk, which will pass in front of the eagle nest, downslope and at a point more distant from the highway than the optimal nest-viewing areas. Since this would be closer to the wooded area, an elevated platform would be required to permit a view of the nest.
<br/><br/><a href="http://mailto:David.Bogardus@dot.state.fl.us" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">Please e-mail your concerns directly to Mr. Bogardus at this link. </a><br/><br/>and be sure to copy your comments here on the FORUM.
<br/><br/>Thanks!
<br/><br/><i><b><a href="http://mailto:David.Bogardus@dot.state.fl.us" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">David Bogardus</a> wrote:
<br/><br/>If people have comments do let me know and I will add them into our records for consideration during the design phase of the southern sidewalk.
<br/><br/>I have been told that a work order has been placed for the signage to be processed.
<br/><br/>Best regards,
<br/>David</b></i><br/><br/>
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3668573FDOT: No observation of nest from south side of Pines Boulevard2009-09-18T06:32:56Z2009-09-18T06:32:56ZNewMexiKen
On September 9, 2009, representatives from the Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee met with David Bogardus, Senior Environmental Specialist, FDOT District 4 Planning & Environmental Management and other senior Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) staff. We discussed our common concerns about the dangers to eagle nest watchers who gather along the south shoulder of the 20800 block of Pines Boulevard. <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/APPROVEDSteeringComFDOTPositionPaper20090831.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">The full text of the Steering Committee's position may be found at this link.</a> The Committee requested that FDOT consider several measuers, including:
<br/><br/>1. Placement of a temporary hard barrier along the south (eastbound) side of the highway, to separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic.
<br/><br/>2. Improve “No Parking” signage so that the signs on the south side of the 20800 block of Pines Boulevard face oncoming traffic.
<br/><br/>3. Add temporary warning traffic signs recommending that motorists exercise caution and reduce speed along that stretch of roadway during the months of January through May.
<br/><br/>4. Develop, in cooperation with the City of Pembroke Pines, durable temporary signs that instruct pedestrian observers to utilize crosswalks at signal lights (at corners of 209th and 208th Avenues) and provide additional information to increase observer safety, such as advising pedestrians to stay off the shoulder or roadway, control children and pets, avoid littering, (etc).
<br/><br/>5. Construction of a pedestrian sidewalk on the south side of the block, in view of the increased pedestrian traffic at all times of the year
<br/><br/>6. Consultation with the City as to alternative parking areas other than the south side of the 20800 block of Pines Boulevard, such as use of side streets and soft road shoulders located on the FDOT right-of-way.
<br/><br/>Mr. Bogardus <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/FDOTMeeting.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">provided us with a report (view it at this link)</a> of the meeting that summarizes FDOT's position. The good news is that it is clear that FDOT intends to institute measures to improve the safety of observers on the south side of the highway. The bad news is that the time frame for developing and implementing these measures means that such action will not be completed until after the 2011 nesting season. In the meantime, eagle nest observers (and all pedestrians) will be prohibited from entering the south side of Pines Boulevard. Further, there is no practical solution to the lack of safe and suitable parking. The following are key excerpts from Mr. Bogardus' report:
<br/><br/><i><b>FDOT stated that it does not wish to facilitate any pedestrian gathering on the south side of Pines Blvd due to safety concerns. Instead protective measures would focus on restricting pedestrians to the north side of Pines Blvd. where there is a sidewalk.
<br/><br/>The Department will post signs on the corner of 209th Avenue stating pedestrians must cross Pines Blvd. on 208th Avenue. No crosswalk exists on 209th Avenue.
<br/><br/>FDOT signage would be corrected to face oncoming traffic and additional signage would also be added including – “No Pedestrians” and “No Parking” on the south side of the road.
<br/><br/>FDOT does not wish to accommodate or encourage parking on its right of way along Pines Blvd due to safety concerns.
<br/><br/>The City has erected a fence to keep people from approaching the nest tree. However, the view near the fence is not ideal due to the dense forest. Instead people back up towards Pines Blvd. and the road island where the view is better, but dangerous to vehicle traffic. FDOT Planning and Environmental Management will coordinate with the design Project Manager, Henry Oaikhena to see if some type of viewing platform/elevated sidewalk can be incorporated into his Pines Blvd resurfacing project (construction is scheduled to begin in June 2011).
<br/><br/>A pedestrian sidewalk is planned for the south side of Pines Blvd. from US 27th to 208th Ave. The project timeframe is June 2011, depending on approval of environmental concerns (wetland & eagle) with the agencies (SFWMD, USFWS, and FWC).
<br/><br/>The Department’s plans for the sidewalk should be re-evaluated to see if any opportunities exist in terms of the eagles and pedestrian safety.</b></i><br/>
<br/>= = = = = = = = = = =
<br/><br/>In summary, eagle nest observers will be restricted to the north side of Pines Boulevard for the next two breeding seasons. We expressed our disappointment that FDOT was unable to come up with a solution that was more accomodating to the needs of the many citizens who will surely continue to seek views of the birds during the peak observation season during the months of February through April. Veteran nest watchers probably share my belief that enforcement of the restrictions will place a burden upon local police. Volunteer watchers should not be expected enforce the traffic laws, but rather provide information to the public and notify the police department of any violations. I believe we should actively discourage media attention, as it has been very effective in increasing the numbers of observers. Until FDOT actually approves and implements these changes, provision of additional legal parking may actually worsen the situation.
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3645844FPL at eagle nest site2009-09-14T17:17:34Z2009-09-14T17:17:34ZKathy
I drove by the nest site today around 11am and saw FPL out there taking pictures and writing something down. I stopped and asked them if the Eagles were back and the FPL woman said it would be some time before they would come back. Does anyone know anything about why FPL would be there?
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live your life don't watch it go by . . .
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3371621Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee Documents available2009-08-01T22:02:55Z2009-08-01T22:02:55ZNewMexiKen
The <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">main Eagle Watching page</a> now has links to the minutes of the Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee meetings and documents. Included is Trisha Norton's well-illustrated and interesting report on the meeting she had, along with Barry Heimlich of the Steering Committee, and a representative from Florida Power & Light Company, regarding the need to mitigate power line dangers and preserve roost trees near the lines.
<br/><br/>Additional documents will be posted, so keep an eye on that page.
<br/><br/>You are invited to review these materials and provide any comments or ideas.
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3337385Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Commitee members raise concerns about safety of nest observers2009-07-27T18:44:18Z2009-07-27T18:44:18ZRosyfinch
Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis has appointed a Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee to assist the City in developing a sanctuary on City land that surrounds a recently-discovered Bald Eagle nest. This nest is the first active eagle nest known to have been established in Broward County since DDT was abolished in the 1970s. The existence of this nest was publicized by local media, and has attracted much attention from the general public. Since the nest is located only about 150 feet from the edge of Pines Boulevard (State Highway 820), it may be readily viewed from the grassy swale that borders the south shoulder of the 20800 block of the highway.
<br/><br/>Earlier this year, local officials as well as FDOT became aware of certain hazards posed by the large number of observers who congregated along the side of the roadway, especially during the months of January through May, when young eagles were present in the nest. At various times, especially on weekends, over 50 vehicles and more than 100 spectators gathered there at one time. Since most observers spent only a limited time at the site, there was much turnover. Traffic and crowd control measures were implemented. FDOT placed “No Parking” signs along that stretch of roadway, in an attempt to eliminate the collision hazard posed by vehicles stopping to park and re-enter the highway. The City erected a fence around the property with “No Trespassing” signs, and placed pylons along the entire block about 30 feet from the roadway, to further discourage vehicular traffic and keep pedestrians from approaching too close to the nest.
<br/><br/>In an effort to educate the public and also to help maintain order during times of peak visitor traffic, a cadre of local citizens assembled as an ad hoc eagle watching group. Several of these lay citizens now serve on the Mayor’s Steering Committee. At the July 20 meeting, they related some experiences that raise very serious public safety and liability concerns.
<br/><br/>Unauthorized parking continued even after the FDOT erected signs. This was often innocent, as the signs faced the roadway rather than oncoming traffic. Many drivers failed to see the signs until they were pointed out by the volunteers or other observers. There were several “near misses” due to vehicles slowing down (whether to park or inquire about the reason for the presence of the crowds), but no collisions were observed. Speeders and other drivers distracted by the presence of the observers, or possibly by cell phones, sometimes did not reduce speed, or veered out of lanes and caused near-collisions. The lack of parking spaces near the nest led some motorists to park in traffic lanes, such as the westbound right and left turn lanes at 209th Avenue.
<br/><br/><i><b>Most seriously, pedestrians stood too close to the paved roadway. Looking at the nest through binoculars and cameras, they sometimes backed up onto the pavement. Small children were seen to actually venture into the traffic lane while their parents were inattentive or distracted. Thankfully, there have been no reports of pedestrian accidents, but this situation creates an urgent and abiding concern to members of the Steering Committee. We believe that the modest cost of providing safety measures pales in comparison to the liability that may be associated with a single serious injury or fatality.
<br/></b></i><br/>Since the eagles instinctively return to the same territory each winter to begin the breeding cycle, and normally re-use the same nest, this scenario, with its associated hazards, is be expected to be repeated in future years. We believe that Florida Department of Transportation has an interest in, and responsibility to assure the safety of, pedestrians who view the eagle nest from FDOT property along the south side of the 20800 block of Pines Boulevard. We request that FDOT implement additional measures to reduce public liability for any injuries or deaths that may result from failure to act before the return of crowds of eagle observers in January, 2010.
<br/><br/>Members of the Committee recommended, in priority order, that Doug Young, chair of the Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee bring these concerns to the attention of FDOT, with a request that the agency consider taking the following measures:
<br/><br/>1. Place a temporary hard barrier along the south (eastbound) side of the highway, to create a soft breakdown lane on the right shoulder, and also to separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic. Since there are several nest vantage points along the roadway, the barrier should be at least 100 to 150 feet long. FDOT engineers could determine construction, whether plastic water-filled, or concrete “Jersey Barriers.” Observers would be limited to the south side of the barrier, away from vehicular traffic.
<br/>2. Improve “No Parking” signage so that the signs face oncoming traffic.
<br/>3. Add temporary warning traffic signs recommending that motorists exercise caution and reduce speed along that stretch of roadway during the months of January through May.
<br/>4. Develop, in cooperation with the City of Pembroke Pines, durable temporary signs that instruct pedestrian observers to utilize crosswalks at signal lights (at corners of 209th and 208th Avenues) and provide additional information to increase observer safety, such as staying off the shoulder or roadway, controlling children and pets, not littering, (etc).
<br/>5. Consider construction of a pedestrian sidewalk on the south side of the block, in view of the increased pedestrian traffic at all times of the year (due not only to the eagle nest, but also the new High School and the recently-installed traffic signals at 209th Avenue that provide additional protected access to the bus stop at the SE corner of 208th Avenue).
<br/>6. While parking concerns are mainly within the purview of local authorities, FDOT may be offer some advice and assistance to the City.
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://blog.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://blog.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Photos: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch/" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch/</a>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3275233Eagles and Power Lines2009-07-17T05:57:41Z2009-07-17T05:57:41ZNewMexiKen
An essential ingredient of Bald Eagles breeding habitat is the presence of suitable roost trees within sight of the nest. Our local pair of eagles is no exception, and they favor three or four tall Australian Pines along Pines Boulevard, as well as the trunks of melaleuca trees in the SW Florida Water Management District land just to the west of the proposed City of Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle sanctuary. These exotic trees were all killed by herbicides a few years ago. The are badly decayed and many fall down with each windstorm. As these roosting sites disappear, we can expect the eagles to seek out other prominent perches, such as power poles. Electrocution and collision with power lines are major causes of urban Bald Eagle mortality.
<br/><br/>On June 11, Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee members Barry Heimlich of South Florida Audubon, and veteran eagle watcher Trisha Norton met at the site of the Pembroke Pines nest with Doug Macke, Florida Power & Light Company Broward Area Power Systems Environmental Coordinator, to discuss this hazard. They were pleased to learn that Doug had been observing the eagles since last year, when the nest was first "discovered," and the company had already taken some action.
<br/><br/>The FPL transmission lines run along the south side of Pines Boulevard, about 150 feet in front of the nest tree. The nest site is opposite the white truck parked on roadside, and one of the eagles' favorite roosting trees rises prominently above the wires... <a href="http://blog.rosyfinch.com/?p=259" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">[For full story and photographs, visit my latest Blog post here] </a>
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3073094Trisha Norton appointed to PP Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee2009-06-13T11:17:20Z2009-06-13T11:17:20ZNewMexiKen
Doug Young, President of South Florida Audubon and chair of the Pembroke Pines Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee has announced that Trisha Norton, veteran eagle watcher, has been invited to serve on that body. Trisha has served many hours as an observer and interpreter for visitors since early in the 2008-2009 breeding cycle. Most recently, she provided valuable assistance in a meeting between Committee members and a representative of Florida Power and Light Company, addressing concerns about trimming or removal of roost trees along the FPL transmission lines, and measures to reduce the threat of collision with wires and electrocution on power poles.
<br/><br/>Kelly Smith, who discovered the nest in 2007, and I were appointed upon formation of the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee held its first meeting on June 1, 2009, at which time Al Griffin, another veteran observer was appointed to membership.
<br/><br/>Minutes of the first meeting (pending approval by the Committee at its next meeting) <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/MinutesEagleSanctuarySteeringCommitteeMeeting20090603.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">may be viewed here</a>. The names of the other members of the Committee are listed therein.
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3043506Eagle conservation is about more than eagles2009-06-08T08:09:26Z2009-06-08T08:09:26ZNewMexiKen
Now that eagle sightings may be winding down, I would like to encourage eagle-watchers to keep the FORUM alive by continuing to post information and share ideas and questions, especially about the plans for the Pembroke Pines eagle sanctuary and eagle protection ordinance. In addition, I have always found it interesting to hear eagle-watchers' reports and photos of other wildlife sightings in and near the "eagle forest."
<br/><br/>All too often, wildlife conservation focuses on the welfare of certain threatened and endangered species, while neglecting the whole web of life that sustains them. Creatures at the bottom of the food chain are vitally important to those at the top. "Our" eagles appear to forage for fish, reptiles and amphibians, birds and small mammals, over a territory that stretches out in a radius of several miles. Because of development and other disturbances, that territory contains many "barren" patches. The City of Pembroke Pines preserves (particularly Chapel Trail Nature Center, soon to be expanded to fill the entire eastern corner of Sheridan St. & 196th Avenue, and the new West Pines Soccer Center and Wildlife Preserve at 196th and Pines), the lakes, canals and mitigation wetlands, or "Environmentally Sensitive Areas" set aside by builders, the Stormwater Treatment Areas managed by the SW Florida Water Management District, and even the several landfills within a mile of the nest, all provide essential hunting grounds for eagles and other predators.
<br/><br/>I suggest that we try to document the biologic diversity of the habitat that was chosen by this pair of eagles, by continuing to post records and photos of other wildlife sightings within a couple of miles of the nest. To the extent that we demonstrate the diversity of wildlife that exists within (and in spite of) all the human disturbances, we are sending a message to our municipal leaders that their efforts to preserve natural habitat are bearing fruit and are to be encouraged.
<br/><br/>How do you all feel about this? Of course, when the resident eagles return in October to check out the nest, and as they refurbish it in preparation for egg-laying in December, we will naturally re-focus our attention on the reason why we all got so involved in this project.
<br/><br/>This leads me to another idea. I want to give some thought to describing how this singular event has made changes in my own appreciation, not only of the eagles, but of the wonders of the natural world and its importance to all of us. Maybe I will ask for a "Roll Call" so that everyone who has been involved, even casually or as a "lurker" on this FORUM, might (anonymously, if desired) express such thoughts and feelings. We might be described as a rag-tag, ad-hoc assemblage of people of all ages and walks of life, but we have joined in a cooperative effort and are seeing positive results. Ideas?
<br/><br/>Oh, and Nabble requires the FORUM to remain active, or it may remove support for it. (Their criteria are quite liberal-- I think they require at least one post every month or so, and they said they would notify me before they terminate it for inactivity).
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Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-3021879Report on Pembroke Pines Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee2009-06-03T17:18:11Z2009-06-03T17:18:11ZNewMexiKen
On the afternoon of May 1, Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis met with members of the the group, including Doug Young (President of South Florida Audubon and chair), Dean Piper (PP Planning & Zoning, for Sharon Williams), Beverly Gallagher (School Board Member, Dist. 2), Victor Suarez (Flyway Cities Coalition), Brian Mealey, Kelly Smith, Barry Heimlich (of Audubon), Ken Schneider, and Al Griffin (veteran nest watcher and new member).
<br/><br/>Mayor Ortis reiterated his support for protecting the local eagle nest. The Steering Committee presented the City with draft language for official designation of the sanctuary, as well as a model ordinance that would amend the planning and zoning permit process to assure that any proposed disturbances near the nest complies with Florida FWC Bald Eagle Management Guidelines.
<br/><br/>The group decided to prioritize the sanctuary's needs, among which are a permanent security fence, adequate and safe visitor parking, a semi-permanent observation area, an information kiosk and/or shelter, the need to preserve roosting trees, for raptor deterrents on the power poles, a source of volunteer interpreters, and placement of an “eagle cam.” Since the City controls only the land inside the fence line, the observation area would need to be placed on State DOT property. Approval for an eagle cam could take up to a year. Any structure may raise zoning as well as liability issues.
<br/><br/>Contacts are already underway with FPL and Florida DOT, as well as South Florida Water management District, which owns all the land to the south and west of the "eagle forest." Subsequent meetings will involve these groups.
<br/><br/>All in all, we are very encouraged about the City's support. I feel that one thing that must be preserved is the grass-roots involvement of local eagle watchers. I pointed out that there have been over 37,000 visits to this FORUM, which does not even count all the e-mails that go out to participants to keep them abreast of events at the nest. This is merely an index of the degree of local interest in the protection of this magnificent bird.
<br/><br/>Although the Bald Eagle is holding its own statewide in Florida, the threat of local extinction of new urban eagle families is ever present.
<br/><br/>I will strive to keep everyone informed and really thank you all for your offers to help out in any way!
<br/><br/>--
<br/>Ken Schneider
<br/>Miramar, Florida & North Aurora, Illinois
<br/><br/>Web site: <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Eagle Nest: <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://blog.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://blog.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Photos: <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a><br/>"Openness to the natural world and our response to it lie at the core of what we do and why we do it." (Fr. Tom Pincelli)
<br/><br/><br/>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2977090Construction near eagle nest site resumed today2009-05-26T13:37:14Z2009-05-26T13:37:14ZNewMexiKen
Following intervention by eagle watchers and advice of FWC, the school board suspended excavation that was to have been done in January just as the eggs were hatching.
<br/><br/>Today the construction crews were out and there is digging in front of the nest, presumably resumption of the deferred activity. Since the eagles have fledged, this is permitted under FWC guidelines, even though the chicks are still returning to the nest.
<br/><br/>I hope the behavior of the birds will not be affected. Let's try to keep an eye out for them. The island in the middle of the road provides a good vantage point.
<br/><br/>Ken
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2969412Bald Eagle "hardly worthy of the distinction" of national symbol2009-05-25T05:35:15Z2009-05-25T05:35:15ZNewMexiKen
As a kid, I read many books about birds, and the tendency of earlier naturalists was to group birds into "good" and "bad" categories. Birds of prey were generally considered "bad," because they competed with humans by killing chickens and other livestock as well as game animals. Blackbirds destroyed grain, and were likewise so classified. The "good" birds helped control insects that ate crops or annoyed humans humans.
<br/><br/>Among my treasured bird books are many from a series by Arthur Cleveland Bent, "Life Histories of North American Birds." Bent had remarkable powers of observation and his descriptions, though rather quaint by modern standards.were vivid and very enjoyable. Here is an excerpt from a web browser-based electronic book collection Bent's Life Histories, selected from the hundreds of species biographies assembled and written by Bent and his collaborators and published in a twenty-one volume series between 1919 and 1968 by the United States Government Printing Office.
<br/><br/>Here is an excerpt from Bent's Bald Eagle description. The entire entry, and links to many other of his species accounts may be accessed at:
<br/><br/><a href="http://birdsbybent.netfirms.com/ch61-70/baleagle.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://birdsbybent.netfirms.com/ch61-70/baleagle.html</a><br/><br/>"On June 20, 1782, our forefathers adopted as our national emblem the bald eagle, or the 'American eagle' as it was called, a fine looking bird, but one hardly worthy of the distinction. Its carrion-feeding habits, its timid and cowardly behavior, and its predatory attacks on the smaller and weaker osprey hardly inspire respect and certainly do not exemplify the best in American character. The golden eagle is a far nobler bird, but it is not strictly American. The wild turkey was suggested, but such a vain and pompous fowl would have been a worse choice. Eagles have always been looked upon as emblems of power and valor, so our national bird may still be admired by those who are not familiar with its habits. Its soaring flight, with its pure white head and tail glistening in the sunlight, is really inspiring; and it adds grandeur to the scene as it sits in a dignified pose on some dead tree, its white head clearly visible against the dark green of the forest background."
<br/><br/><a href="http://birdsbybent.netfirms.com/ch61-70/baleagle.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://birdsbybent.netfirms.com/ch61-70/baleagle.html</a><br/>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2907957Clean-up2009-05-15T07:15:23Z2009-05-15T07:15:23ZAl Griffin
The May 19 clean-uo will push-back to Tuesday May 26. Yes I saw the entire family Thursday morning.
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2850380Miami Herald Article on PP Eagle Nest protection2009-05-09T08:28:10Z2009-05-09T08:28:10ZNewMexiKen
Miami Herald Article on the Pembroke Pines eagle nest:
<br/><br/><a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/miramar/story/1038030.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">Eagle Nest May Get Roots
<br/></a><br/><a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/miramar/story/1038030.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/miramar/story/1038030.html</a>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2850117Eagle Sanctuary Meeting with County Commissioner Wasserman-Rubin2009-05-09T07:12:46Z2009-05-09T07:12:46ZNewMexiKen
Doug Young, President of South Florida Audubon, and Chair, and several other members of Pembroke Pines Mayor Ortis' Bald Eagle Sanctuary Steering Committee will meet with Broward County Commissioner Wasserman-Rubin on Monday afternoon (May 11) to discuss the eagle sanctuary and to ask for County support of the project which is being led by the City of Pembroke Pines. The eagle’s nest is in her district.
<br/>
<br/>I prepared a PowerPoint presentation to provide some background information to the Commissioner:
<br/><br/><a href="http://rosyfinch.com/EaglePresentationShortPPT.ppt" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com/EaglePresentationShortPPT.ppt</a><br/><br/>Here is another link, to a 2 page handout (in PDF format) with the framework for a plan of action, adapted from the one we provided earlier to Mayor Ortis:
<br/><br/><a href="http://rosyfinch.com/Planning%20Considerations20090511Meeting.pdf " target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com/Planning%20Considerations20090511Meeting.pdf </a>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2751739Development of the pasture east of Post Office2009-04-30T21:51:44Z2009-04-30T21:51:44ZNewMexiKen
Chapel Trail Associates, LLC has had plans, approved since 1987, to develop the block that is just east of the Post Office (between 209th and 210th Avenues, on the north side of Pines Boulevard). This is the pasture that has a few cows and where the adult eagles have been seen collecting grass for the nest lining, and on at least one occasion, catching a Cattle Egret.
<br/><br/>The City Planning and Zoning Board will consider, on May 14th 2009, at 6:30, an application by Chapel Trail Associates that essentially changes the use of this property from industrial and community facility use to commercial use. This would not change the "footprint" of the development of the block, and is not anticipated to significantly impact traffic density. I believe that this change would not affect the eagles any differently. I do not know whether any multi-story structures may be planned.
<br/><br/>No matter how this plot is developed, it will permanently remove a foraging area that is of some importance to the eagles, and a source of nesting materials. Arguably, there are other similar areas within the eagles' territory. For example, there is a pasture of about the same size just west of Chapel Trail Nature Center, about one mile due north of the eagle nest site. It contains a few cattle and has grassland similar to the area that is slated for development by Chapel Trail Associates. I know of additional grasslands in the Harbor Lakes and GL Homes Environmentally Sensitive Lands in NW Miramar, about 1.5 miles southeast of the nest. There may be other such accessible grassland areas as well, especially along US-27. Cattle Egrets are not only found among cattle, as many may be seen along the edge of US-27 and other thoroughfares.
<br/><br/>Since part of the construction will take place within 660 feet of the nest, and will create an unusual disturbance that is greater than that already present at that distance, the contractor may elect to obtain an eagle permit from FWC. Alternatively, the contractor may voluntarily follow FWC Eagle Management Guidelines to minimize disturbance during the nesting season. We can be reassured that the City of Pembroke Pines is aware of the potential impact upon the eagles.
<br/><br/>Sharon Williams of the City Planning staff explained that this is a request "to modify the development program for the entire chapel trail development which is known as a development of regional impact or a DRI. Essentially, there are certain development rights left in their program like so many square feet of industrial and so many of commercial, and community facilities. The residential component has already been built out so that is not changing. The developer is asking the city to approve a plan that reduces the remaining square feet of industrial and community facility and increases the commercial square feet so that it is a wash in terms of any increased impacts to traffic. They are going to use this square feet, if approved, to develop the vacant land next to the post office.
<br/><br/>"...The staff report has a condition regarding activities near the eagles nest and we are recommending that they submit documentation from the FWC that either a permit is not required or to submit an approved permit..."
<br/><br/>An excerpt from the staff report states:
<br/><br/>"The applicant is aware that a permit from the State of Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) may be required prior to any construction activity due to the proximity of the subject parcel to the active Eagles Nest on the south side of Pines Boulevard on the Chambers property. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant will be required to submit documentation from the FWC that a FWC permit has been issued or a permit will not be required."
<br/><br/>The staff recommendation follows:
<br/><br/>"Transmit to the City Commission with a favorable recommendation with a determination that the proposed change does not constitute a substantial deviation and that prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant will be required to submit documentation from the FWC that a FWC permit has been issued or will not be required."
<br/><br/>In sum, I believe that the impact of this project upon the Pembroke Pines eagles will be marginal. The positive response by the City and the School Board in following FWC guidance to protect the eagles' habitat outweighs the inevitable change in the urbanized landscape. This is only my opinion, and we should rely upon science and good data, rather than emotion, in evaluating this situation.
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2652053Why so many bikers are eagle watchers2009-04-17T10:47:20Z2009-04-17T10:47:20ZNewMexiKen
The April issue of "Wheels on the Road," the South Florida Motor Magazine, features the Pembroke Pines Bald Eagles. We have noticed the large number of bikers who have visited the observation area. I have also appreciated that, for the most part, they have been quiet and also very interested (a couple of late evening groups, fresh from the "biker bar" being the exception). This morning a visitor who arrived on a big Hog told us about it.
<br/><br/>See page 28 if the April issue, where "Chief Joel" shows off one of Ian Eisenberg's photos of an adult eagle and chick, discusses the nest and cautions: "Get out there, it is a sight to see. But keep the revs & loud pipes to a minimum. There is a possibility of scaring the so called 'lil' ones out of the nest. If that happens they are good as dead."
<br/><br/><a href="http://wheelsontheroad.com/PFD%20Issues/April%202009.pdf" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">Wheels on the Road - April</a>
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2635336Meeting with PP Mayor Frank Ortis re eagle sanctuary2009-04-14T14:00:07Z2009-04-14T14:00:07ZNewMexiKen
With reps from Broward Audubon and Greater Ft Lauderdale Flyways Cities Coalition (National Wildlife Federation affiliate), we met this afternoon with Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis. The Mayor said he just got back from a meeting in Tallahassee, where people from the northern part of the state knew about his famous eagles. He was pleased to learn that it is on City property, thus allowing direct control over whatever may be done.
<br/><br/>I outlined my vision as to the long term planning in anticipation of the eagles' annual return, using the model on the new "<a href="http://rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleSitePreservation.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">Protecting the Eagles</a>" Web page. Mayor Ortis was very enthusiastic about the idea of a Pembroke Pines Eagle Sanctuary. He was responsive to our concerns about the priority we felt should be given to protecting the nest from wild fire. The other participants had great ideas about finding additional resources to assist in establishing a more permanent refuge for the eagles.
<br/><br/>The Mayor wishes to appoint a steering committee to develop and prioritize the necessary tasks. Audubon will take the lead in advising the structure of such a group, which will also explore and recommend an "Eagle Ordinance" for the City. I was amazed at his enthusiasm, and we left the meeting feeling very optimistic and energized.
<div class="signature weak-color">
Ken Schneider
<br/>Web site: <a href="http://rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://rosy-finch.blogspot.com</a><br/>Photos: <<a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>><br/>
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2602774You are invited to a presentation on our eagles this Thursday morning2009-04-07T19:36:34Z2009-04-07T19:36:34ZKen Schneider
I will present an illustrated talk on the Eagles of Pembroke Pines at 10:00 AM this Thursday, April 9th, in the main auditorium of the Southwest Regional Library, 16835 Sheridan Street, Pembroke Pines, FL 33331. The sponsor is the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Flyways Cities Coalition.
<br/><br/>Learn more about this organization at <a href="http://www.flywaycities.org" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.flywaycities.org</a>.
<br/><br/>The public is invited.
<br/><br/>Ken
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2602864Interesting fact about Australian Pine eagle nests2009-04-07T19:56:39Z2009-04-07T19:56:39ZKen Schneider
Barb Walker sent me this factoid:
<br/><br/>"The Broward nest is in an Australian Pine. In 2008 there were 19 counted
<br/>bald eagle nests in live Australian Pines and 7 in dead Australian Pines
<br/>totaling 26 throughout the state. 28 nests were found in cell towers or
<br/>other manmade structures. It is estimated that 24% of bald eagle nests are
<br/>undocumented."
<br/><br/>Thanks, Barbara!
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2523133Suggestion re: sign about calling for help if chick falls2009-03-23T12:59:03Z2009-03-23T12:59:03ZKen Schneider
Trisha has come up with an interesting suggestion, as anxiety about the possibility of the chicks falling to the ground is increasing. It is worth considering, but I'm not sure of the best approach, so I am sharing this with other nest watchers for your ideas. Let us know what you think.
<br/><br/>Trisha wrote: "A thought occurred to me as I was leaving and telling everyone about dialing [#FWC or *FWC] if they saw any mishap with the eagles. We could have a sign that read something like 'Call [#FWC or *FWC] if you see any of the eagles fall or injured.' I even thought we could paint the message on the backs of the signs (the brown side) that are already there. At least anyone there watching who may not have seen your site or hasn't talked to one of us would know what to do in case of an accident."
<br/><br/>Mary Lou and I watched the nest from 9:00 to 11:00 AM this morning. We, too, had a bit of a scare. There were 5 or 6 of us there. The chicks had been fed and Hope became extremely frisky, jumping and flapping on the far right side of the nest. Justice just watched from the opposite side. The wind was quite gusty, blowing from left to right and a couple of times it blew Hope almost to the edge. All of us looked away for a minute or two, as we were talking about something, and suddenly there was only little Justice, still sitting in place, with Hope nowhere in sight. About 15-20 minutes passed with no sign of the larger chick. We all thought it had disappeared too suddenly and really feared she had fallen to the ground. One watcher called one of the City Commissioners to get Shawn Denton's phone number, as he wanted to get permission or assistance in reaching the nest tree to look for her. Thank goodness, but right in the middle of his conversation a wing popped up on the right side of the nest!
<br/><br/>We must follow some guidelines to prevent such a false alarm, as Michele also went a half hour on Saturday without seeing either chick. I'm afraid other observers who are not accustomed to the birds' habits could make unnecessary calls. Maybe the message should be to report the incident if a chick is seen falling to the ground, or if both chicks are not seen over the space of one hour. The most important time would be in the afternoon, as a grounded eaglet would have to be rescued before nightfall to protect it from predators such as foxes and bobcats that surely visit the nest tree to pick up scraps.
<br/><br/>Perhaps we should get permission from someone in the City to enter the posted area to confirm that an eagle is down. Of course, it should never be handled, as its talons can cause severe injuries. A first step might be to call the Police non-emergency number (954-431-2200) for advice and assistance. A number of City firemen and police are already regular "unofficial" watchers. The city might be provided with the other contact numbers to avoid "false alarms."
<br/><br/>I know that many of us are spending time watching outside of the "scheduled" hours, and a number of the "regulars" who are not on this list could be provided with information. The more eyes on the nest, the better. I am copying all the watchers and other interested parties with your suggestion, to see if they can offer more concrete advice, perhaps based upon their own experience.
<br/><br/>Note that the cell numbers for the FWS emergency line are *FWC and #FWC, or 888-404-3922. Brian Mealey's (the biologist who said he would respond to retrieve a fallen eaglet) phone number is 305-975-0200.
<br/><br/>Ken
<br/><br/>Ken Schneider
<br/>Miramar, Florida & North Aurora, Illinois
<br/><br/>Web site: <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Eagle Nest: <a href="http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://www.rosyfinch.com/BaldEagleNest.html</a><br/>Blog: <a href="http://blog.rosyfinch.com" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://blog.rosyfinch.com</a><br/>Photos: <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch" target="_top" rel="nofollow" link="external">http://flickr.com/photos/rosyfinch</a>
<br/><br/>"Openness to the natural world and our response to it lie at the core of what we do and why we do it." (Fr. Tom Pincelli)
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<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2401745crowds diminishing2009-02-28T12:05:28Z2009-02-28T12:05:28ZKelly Smith
I'm relieved to find that the crowds of people seem to be diminishing at the nest site. When I was there Friday evening, there were approximately 10 people, much less than I have seen earlier at this time of day. Unfortunately there are still insensitive and stubborn watchers who insist on placing their tripods well inside the coned area. One became quite hostile when I asked him to please move back, but thankfully left the site about 5 minutes later. Today, Saturday, there continues to be less watchers in front of the nest. That is good news!
<p>Posted in <a href="/Bald-Eagle-Sanctuary-Plans-and-Issues-f4486402.html">Bald Eagle Sanctuary Plans and Issues</a></p>
tag:bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com,2006:post-2383742Eagle Watch public presentatio March 62009-02-25T06:34:44Z2009-02-25T06:34:44Zsmithk6303
Everyone is invited to a very special presentation, given by Lynda White of Audubon's Birds of Prey Eagle Watch. She will be discussing the history and facts about the Bald Eagles of Florida, and particularly our Pembroke Pines eagles. She will also be bringing a live Bald Eagle for the public to see and even take pictures with - so bring your cameras! Representatives from Broward County Audubon Society will also be available for questions and information about their organization. It will be a wonderful opportunity to gain a further appreciation for, as we gather information about, our wonderful nation's symbol. The presentation will take place on Friday, March 6, from 6:30-8:30pm at Silver Trail Middle School, located at the corner of Sheridan and 184th.
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