In keeping with the Town of Palm Beach Green Initiative, much of the landscaping surrounding the new Morton and Barbara Mandel Recreation Center will be native plants and trees, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers. In fact, the Town goal for native landscape materials is 25%. Yet 38% of the plantings surrounding the new Mandel Rec Center will be native. Landscape Architect Mario Nievera says exceeding the 25% goal was achievable with the use of some eye-popping natives, such as firebush, Cocoa Plum and Pigeon Plum. Even the sod or lawn to be laid surrounding the new structure will be a low maintenance variety requiring no chemicals or spraying. Look for lots of activity over the next few weeks at the site, located at 340 Seaview Avenue, as landscaping and final touches come together for the December 7 opening.