The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel is preparing for a significant day of remembrance and renewal. On Saturday, January 10, the Refuge will host a dual event honoring a beloved community figure and unveiling major restoration milestones.
The morning will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life for the late Jim Sprankle at The Roost. Following this tribute, the focus will shift to the official debut of three new additions to the Refuge’s visitor experience: the new welcome archway, pollinator gardens, and Ranger Toni’s Nature Nook.
Restoration and Resilience
The original welcome archway, dedicated in 2013, was among the many structures destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Staff immediately began designing a replacement that honors the past while embracing the future.
The new archway was sculpted by North Carolina wildlife artist David Williams, who also created the original structure (as well as elements for the America’s Best Restrooms exhibit). While the new version pays homage to its predecessor, officials note it holds “some new surprises” for visitors to discover.
New Spaces for Education and Nature
Located at the bottom of the Visitor & Education Center ramp, two new features will also be unveiled:
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Ranger Toni’s Nature Nook: Named in honor of former Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland, this space serves as both a picnic area and an outdoor classroom. It features interpretive elements highlighting the Refuge’s five distinct habitats and the wildlife that thrives within them.
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Pollinator Gardens: Adjacent to the Nook, these new gardens are designed to educate adults and children alike on the critical role of habitat conservation for birds, bees, and other essential pollinators.
Event Snapshot
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Date: Saturday, January 10
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Time: 10:00 a.m. (Celebration of Life); Ribbon-cutting to follow.
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Location: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel (The Roost & Visitor Center Ramp).
