If you know Silver Lake Nature Center Naturalist- Director PattiAnn Cutter, she is not prone to anger, however, a group of park visitors to the still new observation deck slightly raised her bllod pressure and that’s saying something!
“Although we appreciate that our Friends love SLNC & the Observation Platform so much that they chose to hold their special occasion there, we do NOT appreciate the hundreds+ of artificial flower petals that were left all over the Platform” SLNC said across its socials.
Several visitors and staff members worked together to remove the petals from the platform. However, many had already blown into the marsh wetland and lake, which are critical for local wildlife, said SLNC.
Artificial petals are not biodegradable and pose a threat to animals that might mistake them for food.
Credit: Silver Lake Center
“These areas are special habitats for wildlife, who can easily mistake artificial petals (not biodegradable) for food and cause them harm,” the post stated.
Silver Lake Nature Center officials reminded the public of the importance of leaving no trace when visiting it.
“Again, we understand & appreciate using SLNC, but please remember to not leave anything behind in this beautiful Natural Treasure that so many Volunteers & Staff work so hard to keep so beautiful,” SLNC officials said.