Drone Deployment, Mangrove Restoration & Proper Grammar

In this episode of Southwest Florida in Focus, we explore compelling local stories shaping our community:

Incorporating Drones into Law Enforcement: According to the Federal Aviation Administration, there are over 400,000 certified remote pilots nationwide. In terms of aerial drones, there are over 850,000 registered across the country. WGCU’s Jennifer Crawford shares how the technology is being adapted by local law enforcement beyond fighting crime.

The Restoration of SWFL’s Mangroves: South Florida was once acres of swamp filled out along the coastline by lush mangrove forests. However, since the 1940’s, it’s estimated The Sunshine State has lost 84% of those important coastal barriers. WGCU’s Samuel Brucker learned about the role these mangroves play during national disasters and the efforts made to restore them to the local ecosystem.

Avoiding Invasive Plants During Spring Gardening: As the cold weather gives way to the warmer Florida weather, many folks are looking for ways to give their gardens and front yards a fresh up. Before you head to the local nursey for flowers, it’s important to know that not all plants are created equal. Dr. Kimberly Moore, an environmental horticulture professor at the University of Florida, shares ways you can make be sure your garden isn’t harboring invasive species.

Celebrating National Grammar Day: For all the linguists out there, “March Forth and Speak Well.” Today marks National Grammar Day. If you’re one of the people who frequently confuses “they’re”, “there” and “their”, you’re not alone. While AI programs are starting to help people “spell check,” some professors still feel that learning proper grammar is the best solution. WGCU’s Youn-Joo Park spells it out for us.