An Earth Day petition with more than 26,000 signatures was delivered to Chemours chemical company on the same day as its annual meeting of shareholders. It’s just one part of a multi-pronged effort by conservationists and students to protect the Okefenokee Swamp from the effects of nearby titanium mining. A similar plea was delivered to the maker of Oreo cookies and Sour Patch kids, treats that have used titanium dioxide as a product whitener. That letter urged Mondelez International to pledge not to ever use white pigment sourced from Okefenokee-area mines in its snack foods. We talk to two people behind the current campaign about progress to protect the country’s largest blackwater swamp and the challenges that remain.

Guest:

• Josh Marks, environmental attorney, president of Georgians for the Okefenokee
• Mackenzi Hallmark, chair, Georgia Student Swamp Coalition

Maximizing meadows

Make your own meadow. A new step-by-step guide explores the environmental effects of transforming turfgrass lawnscapes into biodiverse habitats. The Florida Meadow Manual recognizes a growing desire by homeowners and landscapers for an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional, monoculture lawns. From plant selection and site preparation to long-term maintenance tips and design principals, the book provides instructions for, and the ecological rationale behind, creating even small, yard-sized meadows. We sit down with the book’s authors to discuss why Florida climate works for these particular landscapes and why meadows are a growing strategy for those seeking low-maintenance and affordable solutions.

Guests:

• Gage Daniel J. LaPierre, post-doctoral research associate at University of Florida and co-author, The Florida Meadow Manual 
• Isabella Browne, landscape designer and coordinator at UF Center for Landscape Conservation and co-author, The Florida Meadow Manual

Artistic APtitude

An exhibit of student artwork showcases “risk-taking, problem-solving and deep reflection,” according to organizers of Global Leadership Academy High School’s annual AP Art Portfolio Exhibition. Presented at Downtown Vision Inc., the show features 2- and 3D art and design pieces by the Advanced Placement students, demonstrating both technical ability and creative thinking. The exhibition’s opening reception is from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at DVI’s headquarters, 29 W. Duval St. Admission is free.

Guests:

• Amanda Holloway, AP art instructor at Global Leadership Academy High School
• Tika Thornton and Victoria Kurochkin, featured student artists