OKEECHOBEE – April was Landscape Architect Month in Okeechobee County.

At their April 23 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioners presented a proclamation to Lillian Crawford on behalf of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

The proclamation states: “Landscape architecture involves the planning, design, and stewardship of natural and built environments, helping create places that are healthy, safe, and resilient.

“ April 1, 2026, is recognized as Professional Landscape Architecture (PLA) Day, celebrating licensed professionals whose expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) contributes to the infrastructure and quality of life in communities such as Okeechobee County.

“April is recognized as Landscape Architecture Month, with the theme “Landscape Architecture in Action,” highlighting the profession’s impact on parks, streetscapes, campuses, and public spaces across urban, suburban, and rural communities; and WHEREAS, landscape architects play an important role in protecting public health, safety, and welfare by designing functional outdoor spaces—from playgrounds and therapeutic gardens to stormwater and transportation systems—with technical expertise and professional responsibility.

“Through resilient and sustainable design, landscape architects help address environmental challenges, restore ecosystems, and reduce long-term disaster recovery costs for communities.

“The work of landscape architects supports economic development, tourism, and environmental stewardship, and is strengthened by accredited programs such as those at Florida International University and the University of Florida.”