Category: Island Update

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has reported a successful sea turtle hatchling season, with 21,261 loggerhead hatchlings and 255 green turtle hatchlings documented as of August 27. The islands have seen a total of 868 loggerhead nests and 21 green turtle nests this season.

The SCCF continues to monitor and protect these vital species. If you come across any issues with sea turtles or nests on Sanibel or Captiva, please contact the SCCF’s Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

For more information or to track turtle nests, visit the SCCF’s Sea Turtle Tracking Portal at https://sccf.hammerhead360.com/

On August 19, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve two significant agreements aimed at improving water quality in the Caloosahatchee River. These agreements, made through interlocal partnerships with the South Florida Water Management District, will fund the construction of two key projects.

The first project is a creek-diversion system and shallow open-water wetland treatment area at Bob Janes Preserve, located north of North River Road in Alva. The $2.5 million in grant funds will be used to restore the property to a more productive, native ecosystem while providing water-quality benefits for the Caloosahatchee River.

The second project, funded with $1.5 million in grant funds, will construct the Palm Creek Filter Marsh Project within the Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve East, south of Bayshore Road and east of Interstate 75. This project will include a series of ponds and a wetland network designed to treat surface water by removing nutrients and improving overall water quality.

Both projects aim to address the Total Maximum Daily Load for total nitrogen in the Caloosahatchee, in line with the state of Florida’s Basin Management Action Plan.

The grant funding, provided by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, will cover construction costs for both projects. Construction is expected to begin in the spring and be completed by the summer of 2027.

Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE) has announced that it will be temporarily closed from September 7 to September 30, with plans to reopen on October 1. During this period, the Tarpon Bay recreational area, including the launch ramp, will be unavailable.

General Manager Adam Sauerland shared that, “September is generally a very slow time for us and the island in general during a normal year. Many of the hotels, condos, and resorts are still recovering, so we anticipate demand will be lower than usual and justify a temporary closure until we begin to see snowbirds return and the holidays near.”

TBE, a concessionaire for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, offers a variety of activities such as tram tours, kayak tours and rentals, bike rentals, paddleboard rentals, hobie fishing kayak rentals, pontoon rentals, and fishing charters. The nature-themed gift shop will also be closed during this time. Regular operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with rentals stopping at 3 p.m.

For more information or to make reservations, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900. Tarpon Bay Explorers is located at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

The Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club is excited to announce the return of its annual Sanibel Shell Show, taking place on March 5-6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and March 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Community House (TCH) on Sanibel Island.

This world-renowned event will showcase top-tier artistic and scientific competitions, along with beautifully crafted shell creations for sale. Attendees will also have the chance to explore shell sales and visit an array of fantastic vendors.

In celebration of the 89th anniversary of the Shell Festival, the event will be presented as the 89th Sanibel Shell Show and Festival, jointly hosted by the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club and the Sanibel Community Association.

TCH will also offer a variety of family-friendly activities, including daily scavenger hunts, a dedicated kids’ activity area, face painting, and a living shell exhibit designed to educate young visitors about conchology and seashells. The club invites families to join in the fun and make memories together.

Proceeds from the event will support the Shell Club’s grants program and The Community House’s operational and program budgets. These annual grants contribute to education and research in conchology and malacology, as well as conservation and water quality efforts throughout Southwest Florida.

For more information, visit Sanibel Shell Club.

The Community House is located at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

The City of Sanibel has announced that Turner Beach Park will be closed to the public beginning September 5 for the staging of equipment and materials in preparation for the upcoming beach renourishment project on Captiva Island.

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) has shared the following details about the project:

“A new beach renourishment project will soon begin on Captiva, aimed at strengthening our shoreline, protecting properties, and preserving the natural beauty of our beaches. Construction is expected to run 24 hours a day, continuously, over an estimated 56-day period. This schedule will help minimize disruption and allow for the swift completion of the work. Once completed, the project will offer long-lasting benefits for residents, visitors, and the island’s unique ecosystem.”

Turner Beach Park, located at 17200 Captiva Drive, Captiva, is owned by Lee County and maintained by the city. For any inquiries, you can contact the Captiva Erosion Prevention District at 239-472-2472.

For additional details, please visit Sanibel Public Beach Information.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions during sea turtle nesting season, as hatchling disorientations are rising at an alarming rate.

As of August 19, almost 9.5% of sea turtle nests (84 out of 884) on Sanibel and Captiva had already shown signs of hatchling disorientation — nearly double last year’s total of 5.9% disoriented nests. With two months left in the 2025 nesting season, SCCF warns that the percentage is likely to increase further.

Why Disorientations Are Rising

According to SCCF sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber, recent hurricanes have significantly worsened light pollution impacts on the beaches:

• Hurricane Ian (2022) and Hurricanes Milton and Helene (2023) stripped away dune vegetation that normally shields artificial light.

• Hurricane Debby (2024) flooded beaches, washing away many nests and skewing disorientation data from last year.

• With fewer natural barriers, artificial lights from coastal properties and inland glow are more visible to hatchlings.

Normally, hatchlings navigate by heading toward the brightest horizon — the reflection of the moon and stars on the ocean. Artificial lights confuse this instinct, leading hatchlings inland where they face risks of dehydration, predators, vehicles, or death before reaching the Gulf.

How the Community Can Help

Exterior Lighting

Follow the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) “Low, Shielded, and Long” principles:

• Low: Mount lights as low as possible and use the lowest wattage.

• Shielded: Direct light downward and block visibility from the beach.

• Long: Use long-wavelength amber, orange, or red bulbs (560 nm or greater).

Interior Lighting

• Ensure no indoor light is visible from the beach at night.

• Close curtains/blinds, move lamps away from windows, or install tinted window film.

• Both Lee County and the City of Sanibel require at least 45% window tint, though shoreline properties may need darker 15% tint for effectiveness.

Using the Beach at Night

• The best option is no lights at all.

• If lighting is necessary, use only certified sea turtle-friendly red flashlights or headlamps. Note: not all red lights are turtle-safe — approved products must meet wavelength and intensity standards.

Why It Matters

“Every disoriented nest represents hatchlings that may not survive,” Weber explained. “By making small changes — from turning off lights to using turtle-safe bulbs — residents and visitors can give hatchlings the best possible chance of survival.”

Learn More

• Certified Wildlife Lighting – FWC

• FWC Sea Turtle Lighting Guidelines (PDF)

• City of Sanibel Lighting Guide (PDF)

• What is Wildlife-Friendly Lighting?

• Sea Turtle-Friendly Flashlights

FISH of Sanibel-Captiva is reminding the community that discounted registration and ticket pricing for the 2025 JOG N JAM will close after August 30.

Event Overview

JOG N JAM is a two-part annual fundraiser that blends fitness, music, and community support:

• Race Day: November 1, 2025 at The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
  Events include a 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.

• Concert Night: December 6, 2025 at ’Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva
  The evening features the Ben Allen Band and a fireworks display.

Early Pricing (Ends Aug. 30)

• Race Fees: $45 for the 10K or 5K; $35 for ages 16 and under. Prices increase after Aug. 30.

• Concert Tickets: $75 for adults; $50 for ages 7–18; four-pack for $200 while supplies last.

What Participants Receive

• 10K/5K: Finisher medal, event T-shirt, and eligibility for age-group awards with an island-themed flair.

• Kids Fun Run: Free with registration; includes a finisher’s ribbon and a treat.

• Concert: Food and beverages available for purchase; shuttle services provided for easy access.

Why It Matters

“JOG N JAM is more than an event — it brings the community together to support neighbors in need,” said Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH of Sanibel-Captiva. Event proceeds fund FISH’s core service pillars — Food, Island-Based Education, Social & Senior Services, Helping Hands — and long-term disaster recovery.

How to Register & Buy Tickets

• Race registration (10K, 5K, Kids Fun Run):
  https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Sanibel/10K5KRace4FISH

• Concert tickets:
  https://jamwithfish.rsvpify.com/

Sponsorships

Sponsorship opportunities are available for island and local businesses.
events@fishofsancap.org

About FISH

Learn more about FISH programs and impact: https://fishofsancap.org/

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce (SanCap Chamber) is set to host the islands’ first-ever Sunrise Sale on August 30 from 7:07 a.m. to 2 p.m. The new event, planned for the holiday weekend, is designed to support local businesses and encourage both residents and visitors to shop, dine, and celebrate island spirit.

Exclusive Deals and Giveaways

The Sanibel-Captiva Sunrise Sale will feature:

• Exclusive discounts up to 50%

• Tiered sales and BOGO offers

• Free gifts with purchases

• In-store perks such as complimentary breakfasts, mimosas, chair massages, and more

• Giveaways throughout the day (with the biggest savings and prizes available early in the morning)

Participants are encouraged to arrive early, as the best deals and giveaways will be available in the morning hours.

Pajama-Party Theme

Adding to the fun, some businesses will reward shoppers who arrive in their pajamas with extra discounts and free items. Audrey Stewart, co-owner of Adventures in Paradise Outfitters and A Little Adventure, who helped bring the idea to Sanibel, described the event as:

“Black Friday, island style — only at sunrise instead of midnight. More than just the year’s best deals, it’s a new tradition that brings neighbors, friends, and visitors together for a morning full of laughter, camaraderie, and island spirit.”

Passport Program and Grand Prizes

Shoppers can pick up a passport map from the SanCap Chamber Visitor Center or at any participating retailer. Each purchase earns a passport sticker, and shoppers who collect 10 or more stickers will be entered into a drawing for one of two grand-prize island merchandise baskets, filled with gifts from participating businesses, restaurants, and resorts.

Strong Community Participation

Chamber President and CEO John Lai credited the idea to Audrey and Josh Stewart, who had success with a similar event at their St. Petersburg store. He noted that more than 45 local businesses and restaurants have joined the effort, creating a festive, island-wide shopping experience.

“Labor Day weekend has always been a busy time on the islands. This is a great way to showcase that our businesses are open, welcoming, and ready to celebrate,” Lai said. “We invite everyone to shop, enjoy lunch, and make a full day of it.”

Event Details

Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
⏰ Time: 7:07 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Businesses across Sanibel and Captiva, from the east end of Sanibel to the north end of Captiva
Passport maps: Available at the SanCap Chamber Visitor Center, 1159 Causeway Blvd., Sanibel

For more information, visit sancapsunrisesale.com or call the chamber at 239-472-1080.

Sanibel residents will soon have an opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted household chemical waste at a community collection event. The initiative, hosted by the City of Sanibel in partnership with Lee County Solid Waste, will take place on September 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Sanibel Public Library, 770 Dunlop Road.

Safe and Convenient Disposal

The event provides residents with a free, drive-through drop-off process, making it simple and convenient to dispose of hazardous household products such as:

• Leftover paints and cleaners

• Herbicides and pesticides

• Automotive fluids

• Pool chemicals

The collection is part of an interlocal agreement between the city and county, designed to protect both people and the environment by keeping potentially harmful substances out of the regular waste stream.

Residential Only – Business Options Available

The event is limited to residential waste only. Businesses that require chemical waste disposal are asked to call 239-533-8000 to schedule an appointment for the monthly business collection at Lee County’s Household Chemical Waste drop-off facility, located at 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers.

Items Not Considered Chemical Waste

Certain items do not qualify as chemical waste and can be set out with regular household garbage, including:

• Empty paint cans and dried paint

• Empty automotive fluid containers

• Small-engine equipment (pressure washers, lawnmowers, etc.)

• Small electronic parts (routers, mice, keyboards)

• Small appliances

• Tires

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has reported that Lee County’s Conservation 20/20 land acquisition program has secured 31,722 acres of conservation land since its approval by voters in 1996. The program, reaffirmed by 84% of voters in 2016, was designed as a willing-seller initiative to protect ecologically sensitive lands across the county.

Funding Concerns

Although a 2021 county ordinance pledged to replenish the program’s acquisition fund, county staff have recommended not adding new funds for the upcoming fiscal year, citing ongoing economic challenges related to hurricane recovery.

Currently, the program’s fund balance is about $19 million, while nominated properties awaiting purchase are valued at approximately $47 million. Purchases moving forward will be determined through a tiered point-system, prioritizing properties based on environmental and community impact.

Potential Impact on Sanibel

One property potentially affected by the funding pause is the Sanibel Community Church site, which has been placed on the Tier 2 nomination list. Properties in this category may still be acquired, but only after Tier 1 properties are processed.

“These properties provide critical benefits, including storm protection, flood control, water recharge, wildlife habitat, public access, and recreation,” said Holly Schwartz, SCCF Policy Associate. “There may still be a possibility for Tier 2 properties to be purchased, but it will depend on how Tier 1 properties are prioritized.”

Next Steps

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to adopt the countywide budget at its final public hearing on September 16. The SCCF emphasized its continued support for the program and plans to advocate strongly for replenishment in future budgets.

“As successful as Conservation 20/20 has been, thousands of acres of wetlands and uplands are converted to high-density development each year,” Schwartz said. “It is essential to strike a balance between growth and environmental protection to safeguard Lee County’s ecosystems and tourism-driven economy.”

For more information on the county’s tiered land acquisition system, view the presentation from the Conservation Land Acquisition and Stewardship Advisory Committee (CLASAC) meeting at Lee County’s document portal.