Monroe County, Florida -- Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, a senior member of the Florida Congressional Delegation, is pleased with a federal grant for $146,814 for the Key West Botanical Garden Society to initiate a living science lab for students.  The grant is being provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and is being matched by monies raised by the Key West Botanical Garden Society.

The Key West Tropical Forest and Garden will launch a K-5 living science lab, which is an outdoor, hands-on discovery program designed to align with state benchmarks. A curriculum will also be developed for grades six through eight to serve a wider audience. The project reaches out to the entire school population within a 35 mile radius and helps the garden serve as an educational center.

The Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden is the only “frost free” botanical garden in the continental United States. The most excellent example of the biodiversity is seen in the Key West Tropical Forest, for it holds the last two remaining fresh water ponds in the Florida Keys. The primary purpose of the KWBG Society is to preserve, develop, expand, and maintain as a wildlife refuge and an educational center.

Ros-Lehtinen said, “I am extremely pleased with the funds raised by this wonderful organization, and for the federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Special thanks go out to the great leadership at the Garden, such as the one provided by Ms. Carolann Sharkey.  A great organization will be able to shine even brighter and educate our young on the importance of maintaining our ecosystems for future generations. Congrats to all involved!”

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