Financial and volunteer support to preserve the unique ecology and cultural heritage of Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park and to educate the public about its importance.

Patrick Higgins receives 2016 Mel Finn award

FOF vice-president Patrick Higgins, was presented the 2016 Mel Finn award by president Francine Stevens

FOF vice-president Patrick Higgins receives the 2016 Mel Finn award from president Francine Stevens

Vice-president Patrick Higgins received the Friends of Fakahatchee Mel Finn Award at the group’s recent annual meeting. The award is presented annually to an outstanding member. The award is named for Mel Finn, who has been called the father of the Fakahatchee for his efforts to preserve Fakahatchee Strand.

In presenting the award, president Francine Stevens described Higgins as “someone who constantly surpasses your expectations.”

In addition to serving as vice president, Higgins’ many other contributions include leading swamp walks and tram tours, making presentations on the Fakahatchee to area groups and serving as the FOF project manager for the Boardwalk Expansion project.

As the 2016 Mel Finn Award honoree, Higgins joins these past recipients of the award:

Don Harmon, Roger Dykstra, Dennis Marlin, Elsa Caldwell, Barbara Lewinski, Franklin Adams (2005),  John Elting (2007),  Allen Caldwell (2008),  Nelson Tilden (2009),  Marya Repko (2010), Tom Maish (2011), Caryl Tilden (2012),  Glen Stacell (2013),  Bill Mesce (2014), and Howard Lubel (2015).