Florida residents launching project to revitalise iconic lake

With beautiful open spaces come the responsibility of care and custodianship.

A campaign is being launched that is aiming to promote the clean, safe and considerate use of Florida Lake. Spearheaded by Florida resident, Neville Solomon, and Florida Lake Canoe Club member, Jennie Dallas, #Care4FloridaLake includes a host of clubs associated with activities at the lake, such as angling, boating and swimming.

The chief concern of the #Care4FloridaLake initiative is litter and the mess left behind by groups enjoying the scenic landmark. Regular picnic trash gets left behind and the wind blows the items into the lake where it rests among the lilies, disturbing the fish, ducks and swans that call the lake home. Additionally, glass bottles are regularly broken on the lawns, robbing children and adults alike the opportunity to roam the grounds barefoot.

The initiative formally kicks off on January 15 when they plan to have a mass clean up and awareness day. The group are looking for fellow and former enjoyers of Florida Lake to put their weight behind the campaign to not only educate lake-lovers on the importance leaving the lake with all their waste, but to help instill an environmentally-conscious mindset in the youth.

“The lake an important place for youth development. The lake has such a rich heritage with enormous potential to serve the community and we hope this can be a starting point to educate people on the harms done by littering,” said Jennie, who has been a member of the canoe club for several decades and has seen the fortunes of the lake ebb and flow throughout the years.

Saturday, January 15 will be the first clean up and anyone interested in getting involved or sharing ideas on a way forward, can contact Neville on 074 127 6439. Additionally, check you local community Facebook page for details of the clean up.