Business Details
28 Years
experience
Supporting Wildlife Conservation in Crystal River
Founded in 1998, we are a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to conserving and protecting the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Our mission focuses on safeguarding manatees and their habitats, fostering environmental education, and engaging the public through volunteer opportunities and community outreach. Over the past 26 years, we have donated over $400,000 in funds and equipment to support refuge projects, including critical infrastructure and educational programs. Our partnership with the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service has enabled us to achieve significant milestones, such as acquiring the Three Sisters Springs property and earning national recognition as the National Wildlife Refuge Association Friends Group of the Year. We prioritize transparency, accountability, and public engagement, offering membership benefits, legacy donation opportunities, and accessible educational resources to promote long-term conservation efforts.
Services
Wildlife Conservation
Environmental Education
Donation Programs
Membership Opportunities
Legacy Giving
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have protected manatees and their habitats since 1998 through direct action and partnerships.
- Our $400,000+ in donations funded critical refuge infrastructure and educational programs.
- We offer legacy donation opportunities like engraved benches and rocking chairs at Three Sisters Springs.
- Our volunteer-driven model ensures community involvement in conservation efforts.
- Recognized as National Wildlife Refuge Association Friends Group of the Year in 2011.
Services
Wildlife Conservation
We safeguard critical ecosystems within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Our efforts focus on preserving manatee habitats, restoring natural springs, and maintaining biodiversity through infrastructure projects and land acquisitions. By collaborating with federal agencies and local communities, we ensure long-term ecological balance.
Environmental Education
Our field-based curriculum educates Citrus County students on Florida's ecosystems. Fully funded by donations, this program aligns with state standards and includes hands-on learning about manatees, wetlands, and conservation practices. Volunteers with scientific expertise lead these immersive educational experiences.
Donation Programs
We facilitate tax-deductible contributions that directly fund refuge operations. Donors can support general conservation efforts or designate funds for specific projects like manatee rescue equipment, trail development, or educational materials. Legacy options include engraved benches and rocking chairs at Three Sisters Springs.
Membership Opportunities
Membership levels range from $10 student memberships to $500 corporate sponsorships. Benefits include discounts at our nature store, exclusive event invitations, and newsletters detailing conservation progress. Members directly support habitat preservation and public access initiatives.
Volunteer Engagement
We organize volunteer efforts for habitat restoration, event coordination, and educational outreach. Participants contribute to trail maintenance, manatee monitoring, and public awareness campaigns. Our volunteer board of directors ensures community-driven decision-making for refuge projects.
People
Lace Blue McLean
President
Leading our board, Lace directs strategic conservation initiatives and oversees partnerships with federal agencies to protect Crystal River's ecosystems.
KC Nayfield
Vice President
KC manages operational planning, ensuring our projects align with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's conservation goals for the refuge.
Bonnie Rybak
Bench Fundraising Chair
Bonnie leads legacy donation campaigns, connecting donors with permanent recognition opportunities at Three Sisters Springs.
Dr. James Powell
Board Member
A biologist, Dr. Powell provides scientific expertise for manatee research and habitat restoration projects within the refuge.
Valerie Dailey
Board Member
Valerie coordinates volunteer programs, mobilizing community efforts for educational events and conservation activities.
Questions
How can I donate to support the refuge?
Visit our website to make a one-time donation or join as a member at varying contribution levels from $10 to $500.
What educational programs do you offer?
Our school field trips and public workshops focus on manatee conservation, wetland ecosystems, and Florida's biodiversity.
When is the best time to see manatees?
Visit November through March when manatees gather in Kings Bay's warm spring waters.
Can I volunteer with your organization?
Yes! We welcome volunteers for habitat restoration, event planning, and educational outreach activities.
What legacy donation options exist?
Engraved benches ($1,000) and rocking chairs ($5,000) offer permanent recognition at Three Sisters Springs.
Where is your nature store located?
Our store at 1502 SE Kings Bay Drive sells merchandise supporting refuge conservation efforts.