Thereare questions that everyone seems to ask when they meet someone new here in Indian River County. "How long have you been here... where did you come from originally... or are you a 'native'?"

For me there has always been a curiosity about this area and the history of Florida and Indian River County since I moved here permanently with my husband over 20 years ago from the Northeast. As a member of the Garden Club of Indian River County I have really come to understand the importance and value of 'native' as it applies to the natural habitat that is shrinking with 21st Century development and the introduction of so many non-native plants for landscaping.

Bougainvillea Circle (one of the nine individual Circles that comprise the GCIRC) has been instrumental in the revitalization of the 'native' plant trail at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) in Vero Beach. This trail is used for many educational programs for local adults, school children and visitors from around the world.

The trail was totally destroyed by the devastating hurricanes of 2004. It was subsequently cleared of debris and invasive plants by students from Sebastian River High School, Native Habitat and Circle members.

In keeping with the total mission of the GCIRC for education, conservation, and preservation, Bougainvillea Circle stepped in and provided the funding for the replacement of the 'native' Florida plants and mulch which was used for the trail's walkway. Plants were provided by Native Habitat of Vero, who did the installation as well. Mr. Mulch generously donated mulch for areas adjacent to the walkway. Bougainvillea Circle also provided funding for plant identification markers and the interpretive kiosk, and has pledged to continue to provide additional plants in the coming years. A Bougainvillea Circle member is a volunteer at ELC and gives a guided tour of this trail identifying the various native plants and explaining their historical uses which are fascinating. Some of the information provided will introduce you to the Ais Indians who used many of these plants for food, medicine, clothing, and utensils.

Both the Garden Club of Indian River County ( Bougainvillea Circle) and the Environmental Learning Center are totally dedicated to preserving the history of the fragile and threatened natural landscape. Funding for this project comes from Bougainvillea Circle's Annual Antique Show held at the GCIRC headquarters each February. The 2008 Antique Show will take place on Saturday, February 16th, and Sunday, February 17th from 10am-4pmat the Garden Center.

Take a walk...step back into history... and 'Go Native' with the GCIRC and the ELC Native Plant Trail.

Environmental Learning Center information at: http://www.elcweb.org/
Garden Club of IRC: http://www.gardenclubofirc.org/
Ais Indians: http://www.rootsweb.com/~flindian/ais.htm