FAVOR’s annual meeting Jan. 21 

FAVOR, the friends group of the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges, is having its annual meeting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at the refuge complex’s administration building, 28950 Watson Road on Big Pine Key.

Attendees will get an update on screwworm eradication efforts, learn about the nature center being built on the Overseas Highway, find out what FAVOR does to support the four Florida Keys wildlife refuges and get outdoors to explore a bit. It’s also an opportunity to meet some of the volunteers and staff who’ve been working tirelessly to protect the endangered Key deer since the New World screwworm infestation was identified on Big Pine Key in early October, the first time in decades that the pest was found in the United States.

The public is welcome to join FAVOR board members, refuge staff and volunteers for a meet and greet, followed by staff updates, a brief overview of FAVOR by President Robert Keeley, and field trips to explore some nearby habitats by boat, kayak or on foot. Looking to volunteer? You’ll get a chance to tell FAVOR and the refuge what you’re interested in doing and they’ll find an opportunity for you. The meeting is outside, under shade, so bring your own chair. RSVPs are welcome at [email protected].

FAVOR, Friends and Volunteers of Refuges, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support the local national wildlife refuges — Key Deer, Crocodile Lake, Great White Heron and Key West — through education, advocacy, volunteerism and fundraising. For more information, visit www.favorfloridakeys.org or check out its Facebook page (Friends And Volunteers Of Refuges FAVOR Florida Keys).

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