by Monica Starr
The south Florida organization MANG recently partnered with the Brevard Zoo in order to begin coastal restoration work. MANG began in Fort Myers by brothers that work to restore ecosystems by planting mangrove trees across the state of Florida. They are currently working with the Brevard Zoo team and their efforts to restore the Indian River Lagoon by growing the mangroves in their various nurseries. These trees will then be used for future planting projects all over the state. A recent planting project began last week at the Coconut Point Sanctuary. At Melbourne Beach, nearly 60 mangroves plants were introduced on the coast.
Mangroves are essential to the global ecosystem and it is estimated that nearly 70% of marine life rely on these trees for various reasons.[1] Found along coastal areas and estuaries, these tropical forests provide extremely rich environments for a range of species. The complex system of roots not only acts as a shelter for marine species, but protection from strong wave energy in these coastal areas. Mangroves are essential in order to stabilize these vulnerable coastal areas and are considered the number one carbon sequestration tree in the world. Restoration projects both in the Florida area and all over the world are extremely important. Mangroves are considered to be one of the most threated ecosystems and are being destroyed at alarming rates. Things like coastal development, pollution and overexploitation destroy these tropical forests, impacting not only the trees, but the thousands of species that rely on them. That being said, many organizations like MANG and the Brevard Zoo recognize mangroves as an essential part of coastal ecosystems and are working to continue these restoration projects in vulnerable areas.
As of now, MANG has planted over 300,000 mangroves all over the world including places like Madagascar and The Bahamas. With their buy one, plant one initiatives they have been able to plant 126 acres of mangrove forests worldwide, providing $9.79 million in ecosystem benefits.[2] Supporting companies with a global mission to resort these coastal areas allows everyone to get involved with the movement for environmental change. Restoration of our coastlines requires a community of people with similar goals and if you are looking to further get involved with this organization, check out their mission page at https://www.manggear.com/pages/our-mission for volunteer, education and brand ambassador opportunities.
Monica Starr is an intern with Ecology Florida, serving as the Public Communications Facilitator for Ecology Florida News. Monica is a graduate student at the University of South Florida studying Global Sustainability.
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