Dear Pheasant Walk Neighbor:

The summer thunderstorms have provided relief to the recent drought, but water use restrictions are still in effect. The South Florida Water Management District sets these restrictions and multiple law enforcement agencies are monitoring properties for adherence. Please be observant of the restrictions in effect as they may change at any time.

Thank you to the volunteers who valiantly attempted to raise donations to buy paint for the Pheasant Way fences. Many hours were spent in this effort. A neighborhood painting contractor generously offered free labor to prepare, prime and paint the fences. Some funds were collected, but the volunteers found many homeowners were not willing to contribute. You will see that there have been some fences painted under this program, but funds were insufficient to complete the project. I observe the sad and tired appearance of many fences while I drive in and out of Pheasant Walk every day. The Realtors who sell our homes have suggested for many years that the community appearance would be greatly improved with uniform maintenance of these fences. The reality is that the Pheasant Way fences largely impact the first impression of visitors and home buyers. This matter will be discussed in upcoming Board of Director meetings.

The Pheasant Walk Park is greening up. The naturally occurring weeds will be kept at bay with occasional mowing. Over time, native plants may naturally sprout and thrive, but help is needed to replace desirable plants that were lost in the clean out. There continue to be invasive plants such as Brazilian Pepper, the epiphyte dodder vine and wild grape vines. These damaging invasive plants can now be economically controlled so desirable plants can succeed.. Tree trimming will include regular clean up of dead wood and invasive plant and vine growth. The Park and the homes surrounding it are now safer. There is less likelihood of fire during droughts and property damage due to wind storms blowing dead limbs and branches into nearby homes.

Speaking of wind, we are in mid- season for hurricanes, which runs through November. We were fortunate to be spared last year but have a ways to go to see this year through. The predictions call for a probability of 40% that at least one major hurricane will strike the East Coast of the U.S. While forecasts can never be precise, all residents should be prepared. The Internet has many resources to help families protect their homes in the event of a serious hurricane. Let's all be ready for the worst and hope for the best!

See you at the Meetings!

Brent Hoover