Category: Island Update

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has been at the forefront of monitoring and conserving sea turtle populations on Sanibel Island since 1959. The initiative began with Charles LeBuff, a pioneering sea turtle researcher, and his organization, Caretta Research, focusing initially on loggerhead turtles. Over the years, the monitoring expanded to include a growing population of green turtles.

Today, SCCF’s dedicated sea turtle team uses decades of nest-monitoring and night-tagging data to analyze long-term reproductive trends among Sanibel’s sea turtle populations. This critical research sheds light on how these populations respond to environmental and human-driven pressures.

“These trends help us understand the challenges facing Sanibel’s sea turtles and guide conservation strategies,” said Savannah Weber, SCCF sea turtle biologist.

Key Findings from Decades of Monitoring

The SCCF team analyzed data spanning over four decades, including nest counts, the timing of nesting seasons, and hatch success rates. Data from 2024 is currently being evaluated to extend this comprehensive dataset.

Increasing Nest Counts

One of the most notable findings is the significant increase in nest counts for both loggerhead and green turtles over time. Loggerhead nests, which averaged around 70 per year in the early 1980s, now number approximately 600 annually.

“This remarkable growth reflects the success of early conservation efforts, such as reducing poaching and bycatch from fisheries,” Weber explained.

Earlier Nesting Seasons

The timing of the nesting season has also shifted. In the 1980s, the first loggerhead nest was typically laid in mid-May, whereas in recent years, it has occurred toward the end of April. Similar patterns have been observed on other Florida beaches, likely due to warming spring sea surface temperatures. These temperatures may act as cues for turtles to migrate to breeding grounds earlier. Additionally, an expanding nesting population may contribute to the lengthening of the nesting season.

Challenges Ahead: Hatch Success Rates

Despite the encouraging trends in nest counts, SCCF’s data shows a concerning decline in loggerhead hatch success rates from 1998 to 2023. This decrease excludes nests that were washed out or completely destroyed by predators like coyotes.

Potential causes include increased exposure to red tide toxins and changes in the beach environment, such as rising sand temperatures, which could affect incubation conditions.

“These findings highlight the need for continued research to address emerging threats and adapt conservation efforts,” Weber noted.

Looking to the Future

While the increase in nest counts is a testament to the success of conservation efforts, Weber emphasized that there is still much work to be done to ensure the long-term survival of sea turtles. Research initiatives will continue to investigate the causes behind declining hatch success and other challenges.

Weber presented SCCF’s findings at the 42nd International Sea Turtle Society Symposium in March, emphasizing the importance of collaborative research and conservation efforts in protecting sea turtles for generations to come.

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The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) is spreading holiday cheer with two exciting events at the Captiva Civic Center this week. Mark your calendars and join the festivities as the island community comes together to celebrate the season.

‘Jingle & Mingle’ Party

When: Dec. 11, 5–7 p.m.
Where: Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva
Details: Free event, RSVPs required

Kick off the holiday season at the CCA’s annual “Jingle & Mingle” Party! This evening gathering promises a festive atmosphere filled with holiday music, delicious appetizers by Catering By Leslie Adams, and refreshing beverages provided by the CCA. Local musicians Danny Morgan and John McLane will set the mood with live music, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the holiday spirit with friends and neighbors.

Although the event is free, reservations are required. To RSVP, visit https://ccacaptiva.org/ or call 239-472-2111. Donations to support the CCA’s programs are welcome.

Don’t miss out on this festive celebration and the chance to shop at the Holiday Bazaar while you’re there!

2nd Annual Holiday Bazaar

When:

• Dec. 11, 2–7 p.m.
• Dec. 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  Where: Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva
  Details: Free and open to the public

Get ready for two days of holiday shopping at the 2nd Annual Holiday Bazaar! Featuring a variety of local exhibitors, this free event is your one-stop shop for unique gifts, from artwork and jewelry to holiday ornaments, ceramics, and seashell art. With prices ranging from under $10 to $2,000, there’s something for everyone on your holiday list.

Participating exhibitors include:
Odessa Blue, Bubble Room Emporium, Chris Christian, Kaitie Kunsman Grippo, Sissi Janku, MacIntosh Books + Paper, Leah McCarthy, Dorothy McDowell, Audrey O’Donnel, Gina Panzer, Beth Redpath, Joan Syrett, and Kathy Taylor.

This is more than just shopping—it’s a chance to support local artists and businesses while celebrating the season. As acting CCA Director Kathryn Sisson notes, “With all of the hardships so many businesses have gone through this year, it’s an opportunity to enjoy the holiday spirit and support one another.”

Art Exhibition: “The Other Side of Danny Morgan”

While attending the party or bazaar, don’t miss the CCA’s first art exhibition of the season, “The Other Side of Danny Morgan,” on display through Dec. 19. The exhibit showcases another dimension of the well-known local musician’s creative talents. The gallery is free to visit and open during the following hours:

• Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Tuesday and Thursday: Noon–2 p.m.

Join the Fun and Celebrate Together

The holiday season is the perfect time to come together as a community. Whether you’re mingling at the party, shopping at the bazaar, or exploring the art exhibit, there’s something for everyone at the Captiva Civic Center. Let’s celebrate the season, create memories, and support one another!

For more information, visit https://ccacaptiva.org/ or call 239-472-2111.

Happy Holidays from the CCA!

SanCap Resilience has launched the “Neighbor to Neighbor” program, inviting residents to share lessons learned about resilience since Hurricane Ian. The goal is to compile these experiences into an anthology that will benefit the entire community.

Harnessing Community Knowledge

“We’ve all become experts in unexpected areas,” said Chair Bob Moore. “Our community has a wealth of knowledge about resiliency and sustainability, and we want to document it for everyone’s benefit.” Residents have already been sharing tips informally through platforms like Facebook, and this program aims to organize and preserve that information.

How to Participate

SanCap Resilience has created an online form where community members can submit examples of resilience practices. Submissions should focus on one topic per entry and include:

• What was done and how it was implemented.
• Effectiveness, materials used, sourcing, and approximate costs.
• Compliance with building codes.

Multiple submissions are encouraged, as the group seeks a wide range of solutions, including wind-proofing homes, flood resistance, energy resilience, sustainable landscaping, and more.

Future Plans: A Resiliency Symposium

Steering Committee Member Miriam Pepper shared plans for an early 2025 resiliency symposium. The event will showcase practical solutions, provide a platform for knowledge exchange, and feature vendors offering materials for building and landscaping improvements.

Get Involved

• Submit Your Resilience Practices: Submit here
• View Sample Submissions: View here
• Learn More: Visit sancapresilience.org or find SanCap Resilience on Facebook.

This initiative provides an opportunity for the community to share valuable insights, fostering a stronger and more prepared SanCap for the future.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided an update on the Sanibel Causeway construction project.

Traffic Updates

• McGregor Boulevard: Both directions of traffic have been shifted to the south side of the road from approximately 1/2 mile from Shell Point Boulevard to west of Port Comfort Road. This shift is necessary to allow crews to reconstruct the underground pipe crossing under the north side of the road. McGregor is scheduled to remain reduced to one lane in each direction through early 2025.
• Eastbound Shoulder Closure: Motorists should expect the eastbound (south/beach side) shoulder on McGregor to be fully closed to access. Crews have completed work to reinforce the shoreline, as well as paving of the area. Work continues to place sand along the shoulder. The contractor is scheduled to remove the barrier wall in early December.
• Temporary Lane Closures: Motorists should expect temporary daytime lane closures on McGregor, both eastbound and westbound from Shell Point to Punta Rassa Road, for crews to move equipment and materials as necessary.

Causeway Islands Updates

• Barrier Wall Removal: Crews will begin removing the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands in preparation for final asphalt. The Causeway Islands Park remains closed to public access.
• Pedestrian Traffic: Lee County is installing a post and rope system to temporarily delineate pedestrian traffic on the Causeway Islands during the upcoming recreational facility reconstruction.

Toll Plaza Updates

• Traffic Stops: Motorists should expect traffic to be intermittently stopped at the staging area entrance as equipment crosses the road with materials for work on the south side of McGregor and on the south side of the toll plaza.
• Armor Stone Placement: Crews are currently placing armor stone near the south side of the road by the toll plaza.

Additional Information

• Roadway Stabilization and Pond Construction: Crews are continuing to install sod for roadway stabilization and pond construction in the coming weeks. Earthwork (grading) and debris removal continues along the Causeway Islands. Expect construction equipment periodically entering/leaving the travel lanes when necessary. The contractor is limiting the interruption during peak hours.
• Westbound Merge Location: The westbound merge location is west of the toll plaza. Motorists are urged to use caution and obey the 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles and equipment continue to enter/exit the staging area near the location.
• Off-Island U-Turn: Crews continue work in the area of the off-island U-turn under Span A.
• Oversized Vehicles: Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island. Please be patient as travel may be slower than usual.
• Bicycles and Pedestrians: Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
• Speed Limit: Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph throughout the work zone.

For more information about the project, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.

FDOT reminds motorists to use caution while driving through the work zone and to obey all posted speed limits and signs.

2024 JOG N JAM: A Fun-Filled Fundraiser for FISH of Sanibel-Captiva

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and enjoy an evening of live music and fireworks at the annual JOG N JAM fundraiser on December 7, 2024. This event supports the mission of FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, the islands’ only wrap-around social service organization, providing vital food programs, education, senior services, financial assistance, and disaster recovery aid.

JOG: Run for a Cause

Morning Schedule:

• Registration: 6:00 – 6:45 AM at The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
• 10K and 5K Walk/Run: Begins at 7:00 AM, timed by Lin-Mark Sports’ Chronotrack Timing System.
• Kids Fun Run: Starts at 9:00 AM at the Sanibel Community Park, 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Registration Details:

• $45 through December 6 ($55 on race day); $10 discount for ages 16 and under.
• Kids Fun Run: Free for ages 10 and under (registration required).
• Virtual 10K/5K Option: $50, available through December 7.

All participants will receive a finisher’s medal and T-shirt, with additional awards for top runners and age group winners. Team registration closes on December 6 at 6:00 PM.

For course maps, packet pick-up details, and parking information, visit FISH Jog N Jam.

JAM: Concert and Fireworks

Evening Schedule:

• Time: 5:30 PM at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva.
• Featured Band: Funk You, an electrifying eight-piece band blending modern and vintage sounds with soulful grooves and high-energy beats.

Special Features:

• Fireworks Display: A dazzling intermission show.
• Raffle Prizes: Unique experiences and gift baskets donated by community members.

Concert Details:

• Tickets:
  • $75 for adults and $25 for ages 7-17 through December 6.
  • $150 for adults on the day of the concert (if available).
• Limited parking at ‘Tween Waters; overflow parking at Castaways Beach & Bay Cottages, with shuttle service included.

Event Guidelines:

• Attendees may bring beach chairs or blankets.
• Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
• No outside food, beverages, or alcohol allowed.

Purchase concert tickets and raffle entries at FISH Jog N Jam or by visiting the FISH center at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Why Participate?

FISH Executive Director Maria Espinoza emphasized the importance of this event:
“JOG N JAM is not only a fun-filled celebration but also a vital fundraiser that supports our year-round programming and disaster recovery efforts. It’s a testament to the strength and resiliency of our community.”

Event Merchandise:
Browse exclusive event merchandise at JOG N JAM Shop.

Join the Celebration:
Whether you’re running, jamming to Funk You, or cheering on participants, the 2024 JOG N JAM is a day to come together, celebrate community, and support a worthy cause.

For additional information or questions, call FISH at 239-472-4775.

The City of Sanibel recently shared an update on its stormwater management efforts during the past hurricane season. The Public Works Department actively managed the city’s weirs, proactively adjusting water levels in anticipation of potential rainfall from storm events.

Sanibel Slough: The Island’s Water Management Backbone

The Sanibel Slough system plays a vital role in managing surface water across the island, spanning from Beach Road on the east end to the Chateaux Sur Mer subdivision in the west. This system helps store freshwater generated by rainfall, maintains the island’s freshwater basins, and protects properties from flooding due to rainfall.

However, the slough and its associated weirs are not designed to mitigate storm surges like those experienced during Hurricane Ian (2022) and this year’s Tropical Storm Debbie, along with Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The Challenges of Storm Surge

Unlike rainfall, which accumulates gradually, storm surges cause a rapid influx of water from the Gulf and bay, overtopping the island’s barriers and inundating canals and the slough system. This season, Sanibel faced three major storm surges in quick succession, compounded by an already saturated ground from an unusually wet rainy season.

• The storm surges led to significant, island-wide flooding, overwhelming roads and the slough’s weir structures.
• Surge waters lingered for over 24 hours, highlighting the challenge of managing such high volumes of water.

Proactive Stormwater Management

In preparation for potential storm events, the city takes steps such as lowering the Sanibel Slough’s water levels to accommodate expected rainfall. However, storm surges remain beyond the capacity of the island’s stormwater systems.

The city advises residents to:

• Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about local forecasts and potential storm threats.
• Prepare Properties: Take measures to safeguard homes and belongings.
• Follow Guidance: Adhere to evacuation orders and updates from city authorities.

Continued Commitment to Improvement

The Public Works Department will continue to assess and address stormwater infrastructure issues, adhering to the city’s weir policy.

For more information or questions about Sanibel’s stormwater management, email [email protected].

Additional Resources

• To review the presentation slides from the November City Council meeting on stormwater management and Hurricane Milton, click here.
• For detailed information on storm surge, visit the National Hurricane Center’s Storm Surge Overview.

By proactively managing its stormwater systems and preparing for weather challenges, Sanibel continues its efforts to protect the community while encouraging residents to stay informed and prepared.

After a two-year hiatus due to Hurricane Ian’s impact, the cherished Annual Luminary Stroll is returning to Sanibel this week, reigniting the community’s holiday spirit and celebrating the city’s 50th year of incorporation.

Event Details:
Date: December 6, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM (with festivities beginning earlier)
Location: Periwinkle Way and Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel

Hosted by the SanCap Chamber, the Luminary Stroll will transform Sanibel into a festive wonderland, featuring illuminated luminary bags along the Shared Use Path, from the Sanibel Lighthouse to Tarpon Bay Road and Palm Ridge Road. This glowing pathway will guide attendees to vibrant hubs of holiday cheer, brimming with activities, treats, and entertainment provided by local businesses and organizations.

A Celebration of Community and Resilience

Originally established to support local retail and restaurants, the Luminary Stroll has become a signature event, symbolizing the island’s unity and resilience. This year, it marks a significant milestone—the city’s 50th incorporation anniversary—and showcases Sanibel’s recovery and vibrancy post-hurricane.

Kicking off at 3:30 PM, Mayor Richard Johnson will welcome attendees at Tahitian Gardens, joined by special guest and WINK News Chief Meteorologist Matt Devitt, who will broadcast live from the event. At 5:30 PM, the official lighting of the luminary bags will signal the start of a magical evening.

Event Highlights

• Live Performances: Enjoy music, choirs, and dancers at various locations.
• Santa’s Arrival: Meet Santa Claus and join in holiday sing-a-longs.
• Shopping & Dining: Local businesses will feature special sales, festive menus, and activities.
• Interactive Fun: From a petting zoo and pony rides to craft stations and face painting, there’s something for everyone.

Key locations along the stroll include:

• Tahitian Gardens: Featuring live music, games, giveaways, and a selfie station by the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
• Periwinkle Place Shops: Hosting a children’s choir, live music, and exclusive offers.
• Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ: A free holiday concert by FGCU’s Bower School of Music.
• The Community House: Refreshments and entertainment.

Other stops, such as Jerry’s Foods, MacIntosh Books + Paper, and Coastal Vista Design, will offer everything from caroling and wine tastings to unique photo opportunities and holiday treats.

Special Touches

This year’s Luminary Stroll brings new elements to honor the community’s perseverance and the city’s milestone anniversary, creating a festive atmosphere that underscores the spirit of togetherness.

Sponsors: The event is made possible by presenting sponsor Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, along with contributions from other local businesses and organizations.

Parking: Free parking is available at designated locations, including East End Shops, Olde Sanibel Shoppes, and Periwinkle Place.

Admission: The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact the SanCap Chamber at 239-472-1080 or visit sanibel-captiva.org.

Don’t miss this beloved holiday tradition—celebrate the magic of the season and the strength of the Sanibel community at the 2024 Luminary Stroll!

Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the season at the 36th Annual Luminary Festival! This beloved community event brings together residents, visitors, businesses, and organizations to celebrate the holiday spirit.

When:

• Sanibel: Friday, December 6th
• Captiva: Saturday, December 7th

Where:

• Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

As you stroll along the enchanting Periwinkle Way, you’ll discover a delightful array of activities for the whole family.

What to expect:

• Festive decorations and twinkling lights
• Live music and entertainment
• Delicious food and drinks
• Fun-filled activities for kids
• Visits with Santa Claus
• A captivating live nativity scene
• Unique shopping opportunities at local businesses

Don’t miss the opportunity to support local businesses and experience the warm, community-oriented atmosphere of the Luminary Festival. Mark your calendars and join us for a memorable evening!

The 36th Annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade  will take place on December 7, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This holiday celebration showcases beautifully decorated boats parading along the water, offering a fun and unique way to experience Christmas in Florida.

Event Highlights:

• Boat Parade: Watch as various boats adorned with dazzling lights and decorations sail along the route.
• Judging & Categories: Boats will be judged by a panel across multiple categories, with winners and runners-up recognized. There will also be a People’s Choice Award, where spectators can vote for their favorite boat.
• Entry Fees:
  • Non-commercial boat entry: $40
  • Sponsored boat entry: $75
  • Payments can be made by cash, check, or credit card (note: a 90-cent transaction fee applies to credit card payments).

If you’re interested in entering a boat, it’s a great opportunity to get involved in the community celebration. For those who prefer to watch, find a spot at one of the local restaurants along the route to enjoy the view.

Sanibel property owners are reminded that the final pass for storm debris pickup will begin soon, and all storm-related debris must be placed in the public right-of-way by Sunday, December 8th. This is a crucial step in the recovery process, and failure to comply with the deadline will result in property owners being responsible for the proper removal of any remaining debris.

Deadline for Debris Placement

The City of Sanibel has secured FEMA reimbursement for debris removal costs related to commercial properties, including condominiums. These property owners are now also able to place their storm-generated debris on the public right-of-way by December 8th.

The public right-of-way refers to the area of property that extends from the street to the sidewalk, ditch, utility pole, or easement. Property owners are asked to place only loose debris in this area to ensure proper collection. Bagged debris will not be accepted for pickup, as this is a FEMA requirement for reimbursement eligibility.

What You Need to Know About Debris Separation

To streamline the debris collection process and help ensure your debris is picked up efficiently, please separate the debris into the following categories:

• Vegetative Debris: Whole trees, tree stumps, branches, trunks, and other leafy material.
• Building Demolition Debris: Damaged components of buildings and structures, such as wood, drywall, glass, metal, roofing materials, tile, furnishings, and fixtures.
• Appliances (White Goods): Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, heat pumps, ovens, ranges, washing machines, clothes dryers, and water heaters.
• Electronic Waste: Computers, televisions, office electronic equipment, etc.
• Household Hazardous Waste: Materials that are ignitable, reactive, toxic, or corrosive, such as paints, cleaners, pesticides, etc.

By placing debris in the correct categories, residents and property owners help ensure that the debris removal process runs smoothly and efficiently.

Key Considerations for Debris Placement

Please follow these important guidelines to ensure the debris is collected properly:

• Avoid placing debris under low-hanging power lines or utility lines.
• Do not place debris within four feet of:
  • Mailboxes
  • Water meters
  • Fire hydrants
  • Any other above-ground utilities
• As debris is cleared, small items like nails, screws, and pieces of material may fall into the roadway. To help prevent flat tires, residents are encouraged to collect and dispose of these small items from in front of their properties.

Final Pass of Debris Pickup

Once the debris trucks make their final pass starting on December 8th, they will not return. After this date, it will be the responsibility of the property owner to remove any remaining debris.

It is important to act quickly to ensure your debris is collected before the deadline.

Contact Information

For any questions or additional information, please contact Public Works at (239) 472-6397.

This final storm debris pickup marks a significant step forward in the recovery efforts for Sanibel, and timely cooperation from residents will help ensure the community can continue to rebuild efficiently and safely.