Bear Warriors United to Speak

Katrina Shadix to Speak on Bears at November POW Meeting

The People of Wekiwa Springs (POWS) is excited to present Katrina Shadix, Executive Director of Bear Warriors United (BWU), as the highlight speaker for our community gathering on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

Join us at 7 p.m. in the community meeting room of the Wekiwa Springs Baptist Church, located at 584 N Wekiwa Springs Rd, Apopka, FL 32712.

A devoted activist and second-generation Seminole County native, Katrina combines her background in environmental science with a fervent passion for wildlife conservation. She founded BWU, a beacon of hope dedicated to preserving not just bears but all of Florida’s invaluable natural resources.

Katrina’s advocacy primarily centers on the Florida black bear, the only bear species native to the state. These majestic creatures, part of the bear family known for their significant size and power, face numerous challenges. Urban expansion pushes them out of their natural habitats, leading many bears to rummage through trash cans and, unfortunately, earn the label of being nuisances. But Katrina sees beyond this. Through BWU, she has introduced innovative initiatives like a cost-effective bear-proof trash can latch, ensuring safer bear-human interactions.

Working hand in hand with the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC), Katrina recognizes and applauds their educational efforts in making the public “bearwise.” Yet, she believes there’s always room for growth. She likens her relationship with the FWC to being a gentle but persistent “pebble in their shoe.”

For those eager to delve deeper into the world of Florida’s black bears and to understand the intricacies of conservation, Katrina invites attendees to engage with her on Facebook. Her work is emblematic of the broader story of Florida’s evolving landscape, where the boundaries between urban sprawl and nature blur.

The forthcoming POWS meeting is more than just an informative session; it’s a clarion call for collaborative conservation. It offers a unique platform to learn, discuss, and contribute to ensuring a balanced coexistence between the residents of Florida and its rich wildlife. 

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a transformative conversation. Join us!