Exotic species are those which are not naturally found within an ecosystem. When species are introduced into an area outside of their native range, they are often able to rapidly reproduce and outcompete native species. Such species causing harm to the ecology, economy, or human health and safety are considered invasive. Southwest Florida CISMA (Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area) is an organization dedicated to the control of invasive and exotic plant and animal species in southwest Florida. Their membership is comprised of both conservation professionals and concerned members of the community with a goal to restore of native ecosystems for the protection of native habitats, plants, and wildlife species that can be found in southwest Florida. The Southwest Florida CISMA is just one of 16 regional CISMA’s and covers the following counties: Hendry, Lee, Collier, Glades, and Charlotte.
1. Annual Symposium: We host a symposium each year where local land management agencies, students, and members of the public can gather and learn more about invasive species management in our area. This is a great opportunity to collaborate and network with others who are interested in conservation.
2. Invasive Fish Roundup: Invasive fish roundups are great opportunities for anglers to use their skills to benefit our waterways and the native fish species that depend on them. During this event people are encouraged to catch as many exotic fish as possible. Prizes are awarded in several categories.
3. Python Patrol Training: Burmese pythons pose a major threat to native wildlife. We collaborate with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to offer people a chance to attend Python Patrol trainings. These classes offer an opportunity to learn how to identify, report, and safely capture Burmese pythons.
4. Weed Wrangle: Weed Wrangle is an event where volunteers focus on the removal of exotic species in local green spaces. These events are supervised by land managers and offer participants the chance to learn non-native species in their area as well as methods of treatment.
5. Local Outreach Events: We attend several outdoor events every year to help educate members of the public on invasive species issues. Events include the Florida Panther Festival at the Naples Zoo, Earth Day at the Conservancy of SW Florida, Cape Coral’s Burrowing Owl Festival, and many more.
6. Join Us: To learn more about our organization or any of the programs we offer please follow us on social media or reach out to the leadership: FloridaInvasives.org/southwest/ or on Facebook.com/Southwest-Florida-CISMA