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Dr. Craig Huegel is widely recognizedas one of Florida’s leading advocates
for using native plants to create
ecologically productive home
landscapes. Formally trained as a
wildlife biologist, earning a B.A. in
Zoology and an M.S. in Wildlife
Ecology from the University of
Wisconsin, and his Ph.D. in Animal
Ecology from Iowa State University.
His professional career has centered on
the relationship between plants,
wildlife, and people—especially at the
urban and suburban edge, where residential landscaping can either
diminish or restore habitat. Dr. Huegel serves in a leadership role at the
University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, where he helps direct plant
acquisition, maintenance, propagation, staff support, collections planning,
and the strategic direction of the gardens. The USF Botanical Gardens
maintain extensive natural and cultivated areas, with a major focus on
Florida-native plant collections and public education. Dr. Huegel is the
author of several books on Florida native plants, gardening, wildlife
habitat, and plant biology. His works include:
Native Plant Landscaping for Florida Wildlife, Native Wildflowers and Other
Ground Covers for Florida Landscapes, Native Florida Plants for Shady
Landscapes, The Nature of Plants: An Introduction to How Plants Work,
Butterfly Gardening with Florida’s Native Plantsfloridapress+4.
His writing is valued for translating ecological science into practical
guidance for Florida gardeners. Rather than treating landscaping as
decoration alone, he emphasizes that gardens can function as living habitat
systems—supporting native insects, pollinators, birds, and other wildlife
while remaining attractive and manageable for homeowners.
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Melbourne First Church of the Nazarene, 2745 S Babcock St,Melbourne, Florida, United States
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Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.