2: Staff members Aaron Schwartz, Jay Berenzweig, and Brittany Burtner identify Smilax havanensis, a state-threatened species.

MARATHON, FL – Monroe County Planning and Environmental Resources participated in a field training at Crane Point Hammock and Nature Center. The training focused on enhancing their understanding of local ecosystems and cultural history to support the department’s environmental stewardship and planning efforts.

Crane Point is a 63-acre conservation area in Marathon that offers a unique living classroom including hardwood and thatch palm hammocks, mangrove forests, and various native and rare plant species.

The training began with a cultural heritage session exploring the legacy of George Adderley, one of the first documented settlers of the area. Staff learned how Adderley and his family lived sustainably off the land by constructing a home with tabby concrete made from conch shells and by making charcoal from buttonwood and harvesting sea sponges for trade.

A botanical session followed, focused on field identification of native and rare species such as pearl berry, Keys jumping cactus, and fiddlewood. Staff also observed several important conservation habitats used for permitting and restoration work.

The final portion of the training included a marine ecology discussion highlighting seagrasses, sponges, sea turtles, and the significance of offshore rookeries, such as islands inhabited by cormorants and magnificent frigatebirds.

“This hands-on training deepens our ability to make informed decisions that protect Monroe County’s unique environment,” said Special Projects Administrator Julie Cheon. “Crane Point is a vital educational and conservation resource, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to learn in a place that exemplifies the natural and cultural richness of the Florida Keys.”

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