To The Editor:

What a great Earth Day celebration that took place at Harns Marsh an area within the East County Water Control District. Through the tireless efforts of Damon Shelor; president of Keep Lehigh Beautiful and his team of volunteers, they planted three different species and over 50 trees to help improve water quality of storm water that dumps from Lehigh Acres into the Orange River.

The 30 volunteers should be congratulated for their hard work and dedication to making Lehigh Acres a better place to live. Through their efforts, they saved the district ratepayers thousands of dollars in labor cost and supplies. As a long-term board member, I appreciate their efforts and love the community. With three and half hours of work they provided a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy and clean water for the environment.

A few months ago Mr. Shelor attended a Water District Commission meeting and suggested the development of “Friends of the Marsh” to help raise awareness of the needs of this environmentally sensitive area.

Speaking as one commissioner, I look forward to championing this effort as it’s a great public-private partnership that highlights the needs of the area. Through eco-tourism to educational tours for schools, Harns Marsh is the jewel of the community.

Thank you again Keep Lehigh Beautiful for your passion in helping the environment and the community.

Desmond Barrett

Commissioner East County Water Control District

Lehigh Acres