The philanthropy organization of AT&T (News - Alert) Inc., AT&T Foundation, announced the release of $25,000 as award money in order to develop the garden’s Wonders of Wireless (WOW) proposal.  

 

The proposal delineates a cutting-edge technology project, which aims to maximize the outdoor learning experience of visitors taking so-called cellular tours, in the Key West Tropical Forest and Garden.

 

“This project displays firsthand the creative applications of technology being developed by Florida organizations for the enjoyment of Floridians and guests,” said Marshall Criser III, president of AT&T Florida, in a statement, “We are proud of our long history of identifying and supporting technology that enhances visitors’ daily experiences.”

 

In order to implement the plan and make AT&T’s proposed project WOW a reality, wireless services must first be incorporated ubiquitously throughout the area. With this wireless service visitors will be able to make a phone call to a toll-free number and choose tours according to their interest. The call simply guides and also provides instant information to the visitors.

 

AT&T’s WOW project helps the Botanical Garden Society by enhancing each visitor’s experience around the tropical habitat, which includes rare aquifer ponds, hardwood hammock forests, butterfly and coastal gardens and more than two miles of boardwalk trails. It also keeps the museum of living collections “green.”

 

“We are grateful for AT&T’s gift that will keep on giving,” said Carolann Sharkey, chairwoman of the Botanical Garden Society and full-time volunteer, in a statement, “WOW will bring our vision of public education for environmental appreciation to a wonderful new level. The program’s new technology entices youth to have fun learning and experiencing nature.”

 

AT&T also awarded 70 other qualifying nonprofit organizations across the country to help integrate wireless communications technology into educational outreach projects. The projects designed will improve the delivery of educational tools and services through wireless technology.

 

The Key West Tropical Forest and Garden of United States has more than 6,000 plants and trees, 35 species of butterflies and 270-plus species of migratory birds in a natural outdoor setting.

 

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