The need is growing

by Jon Dain, NRLI Director

In this newsletter you will find links to our on-line Learning Series where NRLI alumni Charles Barrett, Clay Archey and Karen Schlatter will discuss how they apply what they learned in NRLI to their businesses - and to intractable water conflicts. There is an interview with NRLI alumnus Bryan Fluech who reflects on using NRLI concepts, tools, and approaches in his Georgia Sea Grant work. You will also find an article written by two current NRLI Fellows who describe our most recent session, including its focus on large-scale housing developments/future urban landscapes. Finally, at the very bottom, there is a link to the NRLI’s alumni map where you can find the locations of NRLI graduates around the state (and country). There are a lot of pins.   

We cover a lot of ground in NRLI, literally and figuratively. But why? What is the point? Yesterday, a colleague sent me a copy of a “Laudate Deum”, a religious exhortation from Pope Francis. It had just been released, and he forwarded it due to the focus on climate change. Although I am not Catholic, I figured he sent it for a reason and decided to read through the document. I found it quite interesting and compelling. The Pope cites data, despairs about the negative impacts of climate change and implores decision makers to do something beyond making promises that are not kept. I was a little over halfway through when I suddenly stopped and returned my gaze to point #43. It was suggestion for effectively moving forward, for addressing a complex, polarizing and difficult issue.

“…All this presupposes the development of a new procedure for decision-making and legitimizing those decisions, since the one put in place several decades ago is not sufficient nor does it appear effective. In this framework, there would necessarily be required spaces for conversation, consultation, arbitration, conflict resolution and supervision, and, in the end, a sort of increased ‘democratization’…”

Clearly Pope Francis is not and never will be a NRLI graduate, yet he describes the spaces that NRLI alumni like Charles, Clay, Karen, and Bryan are skilled at managing. In essence he describes a significant portion of the NRLI curriculum. I was reminded of Class 23’s reaction to our most recent session. In it we covered frameworks for better understanding human behavior and the roots of conflict (Triangle of Needs and Interests, Circle of Conflict), visited Lake Nona and the Sunbridge development outside of Orlando and listened to the Class’s “2-minute presentations”. It was my impression that Fellows struggled with a certain cognitive dissidence. Arriving at Lake Nona, they drove through pastureland and native vegetation before suddenly arriving at a hyper-modern set of buildings and structures. An island of LEED certification in what used to be “old Florida”. They visited an enormous housing development where experiments are underway to see if the impacts of development on water use can be lessened by using native vegetation in landscaping and applying specialized, high-quality compost. They discussed whether development in Florida is inevitable, whether these types of experiments are signs of hope or merely “giving up”. They wrestled with the tensions between private property rights and the collective good. And they held deep conversations about who they are and why they do what they do.  

 

We in NRLI believe that that natural resource issues are far too complex for conventional decision-making. We believe that effectively and equitably addressing our environmental challenges and opportunities requires “conversation, consultation, arbitration, conflict resolution and supervision” - within and across sectors. We call it collaborative leadership. We believe that collaborative leadership is hard and that “conversation, consultation, arbitration, conflict resolution and supervision” require a unique set of concepts, skills, tools, and approaches that are rarely taught in schools. Finally, we believe that natural resource professionals, who often feel like they are the little Dutch kid with a finger in the dike, are more effective when they know they are part of something bigger, a community that collectively understands Florida and its challenges. And is actively doing something about those challenges.

"Where are they now?"

Alumni Spotlight Series

As part of a new alumni series, we are featuring graduates who left our state and who continue to tap into the NRLI network and toolbox.

Joy and Bryan Fluech sat down for a virtual coffee last week to catch up.

Bryan Fluech was a neighbor and mentor of Project Team member, Joy Hazell for the first seven years of her career. He is an alumnus of Class 8 and was president of the NRLI Alumni Association for two years. In 2015, he left Florida (but not the world of Extension or Sea Grant) to become the Extension Director of Georgia Sea Grant with the University of Georgia.

Bryan Fluech has served as the Associate Marine Extension Director for the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant Program since December 2015. He is responsible for providing leadership and coordinating Marine Extension activities across the state with academic, management, industry, and community partners.

What NRLI Skills are you using?

“I would still say NRLI was one of my most impactful professional development programs. Just the fact that I’m working with commercial shrimpers with whom I might not be on the same page with but the ability to listen, kind of being the outsider coming in and really listening, find common ground and build trust has led to positive relationship experience.” 

Bryan also relies on specific NRLI tools when dealing with staff. “I pay attention to the triangle of needs and interests and how I approach my staff and try to meet their needs and treat everyone fairly, yeah, it's easy to say, I probably use skills and knowledge from that program every single day.”

What advice do you have for new fellows?

“Keep an open mind. You know we had a lawyer in our group, and I think that was an 'a-ha' moment for me when - I don't even remember the exercise, but here I had my perspectives about the environment and conservation stewardship - but when he started talking, he was looking at from a legal lens of not so much of what's ethical or the conservation, but like what's legal, and that was enlightening to me.”

“I’d also say participate. And that's not a heavy ask. I think the awesome thing is how much do we learn just by talking to one another.” 

What's the most encouraging reaction you received from a participant when implementing a NRLI approach?

Bryan spoke about using NRLI techniques and tools to bring together fishers, managers, and scientists to discuss new technology for trap fisheries that may reduce line entanglement with right whales. “It was a win/win for me to really give fishers a voice in the process. It was a 2-day meeting I (Bryan) facilitated and even just starting out with icebreakers so people could get to know each other. The first day was just let’s get to know each other and build trust then on day two we had a panel of fishermen to hear directly what they were interested in.” The results of the meeting went to the South Atlantic Fisheries Council who voted to move forward with exploration of the new gear type. 

**The authors of the Fellow's session one article in the September newsletter were listed incorrectly. The correct authors were Greg Garis and Tarana Solaiman. Apologies for the error.**

Urban Development and the Conflicts Within

By Chris Denmark & Erica Hall, NRLI Class 23 Fellows

NRLI Class 23 members arrived in Lake Nona, a planned mixed-use community within the City of Orlando. The area is home to several medical research facilities, hospitals, and medical centers surrounded by pastures with cattle and wild turkeys. A blend of the past, present, and future melded together with natural landscape and new development. Our meetings were held at the UF Research and Academic Center at Lake Nona which is an 110,000 square foot LEED platinum certified building. As the second session got underway, our colleagues discussed what happened since our last session. Hurricane Idalia was foremost on most of our minds and affected some of us personally and professionally. Session leaders reviewed our personal learning goals and we learned how to distinguish between positions and interests by applying the triangle of needs and interests.

We were introduced to Jennison Kip, State Coordinator, UF/IFAS Sustainable Floridians Program, Center for Land Use Efficiency (NRLI Class 8). Jennison gave us an introduction to the Tavistock Sunbridge Development, a “Stewardship District” established in 2017, and the challenges that exist with water resource planning. In attendance during this presentation was Jennison’s collaborator Basil Ianone, Assistant Professor, Geospatial Analysis of Sustainable and Resilient Land Development (NRLI Class 16). 

Our field trip the following morning took us to Sunbridge, a planned community that was required to rethink its approach to development due to the inability of the Toho Water Authority to accommodate the consumptive use permit for a conventional development of this magnitude. Sunbridge is a 30,000-acre property owned by the Mormon Church on the Northwest corner of the 295,000 acre Deseret Ranch that spans Orange, Osceola and Brevard Counties being developed by Tavistock Development Company. We made several stops to visit research/experimental non-traditional landscaping plots, cleared areas before construction, and new model homes with non-conventional landscapes. There were several experts who joined us to share their expertise and experiences and their role in creating this unique partnership.

Upon return from the field trip, we discussed the upcoming panel set up by the project team. Cohort members facilitated the discussion and prepared questions based on the field trip and presentation by Jennison. Once the panelists were seated and the discussion began, the prepared questions gave way to more natural conversation as some of the panelists addressed the role of their agencies to sustainably provide access to an affordable water supply. It was clear that there are many considerations of infrastructure, resource availability and sustainability as well as consumer preference that come into play with development. And with these considerations there are inevitable conflicts based on the psychological, procedural and substantive issues stakeholders harbor. During the debrief, it was evident there was conflict between stakeholders which highlighted our session objectives. It also showed that conflict isn’t always resolved and may be ongoing even when a project is completed. Many of us had preconceived ideas based on the panelist’s profession that changed drastically once the discussion was underway. It will be interesting to see if the internal conflicts are resolved before Phase II and Phase II development.

Our breakout discussions were insightful, thoughtful, and intentional. Later in the afternoon, the “dreaded” two-minute introduction gave us an opportunity to dig a little deeper into who we are personally. Laughter, tears, and pride were on display as we learned what got each of us to this point in our lives. We read poems, used props, told stories, all of which showed us vulnerability as leaders while bringing us closer together as a group. The final day wrapped up the session with discussions about how we may be able to build on the past sessions' lessons and incorporate a better understanding of conflict into complex matters between groups of interested parties.

 Until next time in Madeira Beach for Class 3, Red Grouper Management.

Local Government Scholarship

Sam Eriksen

Natural Resources Specialist, Highlands County

Sam Eriksen is the Natural Resources Specialist for Highlands County, Florida. He, along with a small team of environmental professionals, helps manage the 1,350-acre Sun N’ Lake Preserve and the 55-acre Grassy Lake Scrub Preserve. Along with land management, Sam aids in aquatic habitat and water quality monitoring on over 100 lakes in the county including Lake Istokpoga. Sam is also the project manager for agriculture stormwater projects as part of the Okeechobee BMAP.

Sam’s love for nature started early on hikes with his grandparents and parents in upstate New York. Upon arriving in Florida and experiencing its natural beauty he knew conservation and protection of these lands were his calling. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies at The University of Central Florida, Sam started his career by working with the South Florida Water Management District in Okeechobee. Sam’s job took him from the headwaters of the Everglades to Ten Thousand Islands and everywhere in between.

When he isn’t working, Sam enjoys spending time with his wife Paige and two dogs Finn and Moose, going on trips with family and friends, cheering on the UCF Knights and New York Rangers, recreating in the outdoors, playing video games, or attending concerts with his little brother.

NRLI Scholarship

Jessica Ferris

Senior Consultant, Carr, Riggs, & Ingram, LLC and Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor

Jessica Ferris is an experienced project and grants manager with a strong record of securing federal funds for environmental projects and initiatives. Holding a Masters in Public Administration from Florida State University and a B.A. in English, she combines her expertise in policy and program management with a deep passion for conservation, sustainability, and agricultural policy.

Jessica's career highlights include her role as the project manager of a $340 million agricultural disaster relief block grant where she ensured compliance, streamlined processes, and led a team of project specialists. She has also been instrumental in championing land conservation programs and disaster recovery projects, translating her skills into tangible impact. As a senior consultant with Carr, Riggs, and Ingram, LLC, she oversees contracts with state agencies focusing on those in the agricultural and environmental sectors.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jessica dedicates her time to her family and volunteerism. As a Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor, she advocates for regenerative organic agriculture and connects producers with essential resources. She has also lobbied for climate change solutions as part of the Citizens Climate Lobby, demonstrating her commitment to environmental causes.

With certifications in Project Management and a versatile skill set encompassing grant writing, data management, and team leadership, Jessica is poised to lead, manage, and fund programs that safeguard natural resources and advance environmental sustainability.

Local Government Scholarship

Lindsey Pavao

Senior Environmental Specialist, Alachua County Environmental Protection Department

Lindsey Pavao is a Senior Environmental Specialist with the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department in their Water Resources division. An Arizona native, she grew up with a passion for manatees after her mom taught her at five years old that sailors used to mistake manatees for mermaids. She moved to Florida after graduating from the University of Arizona and began volunteering for the Florida Springs Institute. Now with Alachua County, she primarily works on water quality monitoring of the county’s creeks, lakes, and springs, as well as groundwater.

When not in the field or crunching data, she assists with educational outreach by teaching kids and adults how to prevent stormwater pollution and other ways to protect our water resources. She had to incorporate manatees into her work somehow, so this past year she started the “Florida Springs Heartland Manatee Sighting Network” through a Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida tag grant. The project is a shared effort between Alachua County, the Florida Park Service, and Save the Manatee Club to better understand how manatees are using the waterways in and around Alachua County by encouraging citizens to report healthy manatee sightings.

When she isn’t working, her favorite pastime is sharing her love of the springs through experiences with her friends and family. 

Andrea Albertin Regional Specialized Agent in Water Resources, UF/IFAS Extension

Stephanie Armstrong Environmental Scientist IV, Suwannee River Water Mgmt District 

Steven Beck Biologist IV, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission 

Ben Butler Partner & Vice President, Butler Oaks Farm, Inc.

Allegra Buyer Natural Resources Program Coordinator, Seminole County Lands Program 

Robby Creech Captain, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Michele Curts Leadership Programs Coordinator, Florida Farm Bureau Federation

Chris Denmark Environmental Administrator, Florida Dept of Ag & Consumer Services 

Rianna Elliott Director of Land Stewardship, North Florida Land Trust, Inc. 

Samuel Erikson Natural Resources Specialist, Highlands County 

Jessica Ferris Government Consultant; Carr, Riggs, and Ingram, LLC

Gregory Garis Program Administrator, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Erica Hall Volunteer Executive Committee Vice Chair, Sierra Club Chapter

Daniel Lamson Executive Director, Indian River Neighborhood Association 

Lindsey Pavao Senior Environmental Specialist, Alachua County Env Protection Dept

Callie Register Senior Hydrologist, St Johns River Water Management District

Laura Reynolds Assistant Professor, University of Florida

Rachel Rhode Manager, Climate Resilient Coasts & Watersheds, Environmental Defense Fund 

Jeffrey Smith Senior Environmental Specialist, Florida Power & Light Company

Tarana Solaiman Lead Project Manager, South Florida Water Management District

Stephanie Verhulst Biologist, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers