Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital, marking its 30th anniversary, seeks the support of Coral Springs city leaders in handling necessary maintenance tasks on its aging property
Coral Springs, Florida – Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital is seeking assistance from the City of Coral Springs to help maintain its aging property. As the center marks this significant milestone, the wear and tear of time have become increasingly apparent, prompting the organization to request help from city leaders to keep the facility in good shape.
The center’s executive director, Robin Reccasina, has made a formal request for the city’s support in maintaining the 4.5-acre property. The request is set to be discussed during a workshop with the Coral Springs City Commission on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. In a letter addressed to Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, Reccasina outlined several specific areas where assistance is needed, including pressure cleaning and painting the building exteriors, replacing water heaters, repairing sidewalks, and fixing the chain-link fence that surrounds the property.
Reccasina highlighted the center’s ongoing efforts and achievements, noting the impact of its programs on local youth and the thousands of animals it has rescued and rehabilitated over the years. She also credited collaborations with residents, other nonprofits, local corporations, and the city of Coral Springs for the success of these initiatives.
“The Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital has played an essential role in the community, and our contributions have been made possible through support from those around us,” Reccasina said in the letter. “Our work has not only helped countless animals but also provided educational experiences to children and families in Coral Springs and beyond.”
Despite these achievements, the center faces ongoing challenges related to the upkeep of its facilities. Reccasina acknowledged in her letter that, while the center has made significant improvements to its infrastructure in recent years—especially after the pandemic—maintenance remains a constant issue. “But as anyone that manages a 4.5-acre property and 19-year-old buildings knows, something is always in need of repair,” she wrote.
The Sawgrass Nature Center does not have a full-time maintenance staff, relying on volunteers and external partners like the City of Coral Springs to help keep the property in good condition. Reccasina emphasized that this partnership is essential for ensuring that the buildings and grounds remain safe, functional, and visually appealing.
The exact cost of the requested repairs and improvements has not been determined. However, the upcoming workshop with the city commission will be a crucial step in addressing the center’s maintenance needs.
As the center celebrates its 30th anniversary, it remains an important community resource, providing invaluable services to the people of Coral Springs and the wildlife that call the area home. With the support of the city, the Sawgrass Nature Center hopes to continue its vital work for many more years to come.
