Category: Island Update

Visitors traveling along Sanibel-Captiva Road may notice areas of dead vegetation, particularly near the curve by the American Legion where cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) are being removed from J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge lands. This activity is part of the ongoing habitat restoration efforts being undertaken by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) in response to the unprecedented impacts of recent hurricanes.

As the largest private landowner on Sanibel, managing over 1,800 acres of land, SCCF is committed to restoring preserve lands to protect wildlife habitats and ensure the safety and appearance of the island.

Post-Hurricane Challenges in Vegetation Restoration

The extensive damage caused by Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton has left a significant mark on Sanibel’s conservation lands. The severe storm surges brought prolonged saltwater inundation, leading to the loss of many less salt-tolerant plant species, such as gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba).

While some vegetation died immediately after Hurricane Ian in September 2022, others succumbed over time. Initial restoration efforts in early 2023, supported by state-funded contractors, included the removal of dead vegetation across SCCF and city properties. However, this funding ended in spring 2023, prompting SCCF to fund private contractors to continue the work across preserves like Gulf Ridge, Sea Spray, and West Sanibel River Preserves.

Unfortunately, the saltwater intrusion from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in September 2024 caused additional damage, resulting in the loss of trees that had been on the brink of survival since Ian.

Current Restoration Efforts

SCCF is actively working with private contractors to remove remaining dead vegetation on conservation lands. This initiative is critical to reducing wildfire risks and creating space for native plants to regenerate, allowing wildlife habitats to recover. Additionally, SCCF’s Coastal Watch has spearheaded community efforts, including volunteer-driven clean-ups and native plantings.

It’s important to note that live native trees, such as cabbage palms, are not being removed during this recovery phase. The only exceptions involve the removal of live invasive exotic species like Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia), and climbing cassia (Senna pendula), which are addressed during dead vegetation removal.

Supporting the Community

Beyond habitat restoration, these efforts aim to improve the visual landscape along roadways, benefitting both residents and the island’s tourism-driven economy. SCCF remains committed to working alongside the community to restore Sanibel’s natural areas following these severe storm events.

How You Can Help

Restoring Sanibel’s conservation lands is a time-intensive and costly process, prioritized by risk to wildlife, residents, and visitors. If you have questions or concerns about SCCF’s restoration efforts or want to learn how you can contribute, please contact SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz at clechowicz@SCCF.org.

Thank you for your continued support and patience as we work toward a healthier and more vibrant ecosystem for our community and wildlife.

The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) has announced that the highly anticipated “Time Machine” Porch & Patio Social has been rescheduled to Jan. 31 due to unfavorable weather conditions.

ORIGINAL POST (Jan. 21, 2025):
Mark your calendars for the “Time Machine” Porch & Patio Social hosted by the Captiva Civic Association (CCA). Originally planned for Jan. 23, the event will now take place on Jan. 31 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center, located at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

As part of the Porch & Patio series, this casual cocktail party promises an evening of fun, featuring live music, refreshments, and hors d’oeuvres. Guests will also witness the grand opening of Captiva’s Time Capsule, sealed 25 years ago, offering a glimpse into the island’s history from the year 2000.

Adding to the excitement, attendees are encouraged to embrace nostalgia by dressing up as their favorite decade. The event is sponsored by the Pfeifer Realty Group as part of the 2024-25 Porch & Patio series.

While the event is free, registration is required. For more information or to register, visit ccacaptiva.org or call 239-472-2111.

Don’t miss this chance to step back in time and connect with the Captiva community!

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) on Sanibel Island has received a significant boost with a $1.2 million grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. This funding will support the construction of a cutting-edge Sea Turtle Complex, set to replace the facility that was tragically destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022.

The new complex will honor Bill and Laurie Harkey, who generously contributed to the project, helping CROW secure over $2.5 million in total funding. In recognition of their support, the facility will be named the Harkey Sea Turtle Complex.

The upcoming facility promises to revolutionize the care and rehabilitation of sea turtles. It will feature advanced medical equipment and specialized tanks, including four oval tanks equipped with life support systems capable of accommodating long-term turtle patients. These tanks are designed to be divided into sections, allowing multiple turtles to be treated simultaneously if needed. Additionally, the complex will house a “fly-away tank,” specifically engineered to support hatchling turtles.

The development is a collaborative effort involving key partners, including ALSI Life Support Systems, Joyce Owens Architecture, Colliers Development Services, and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. Construction is slated to begin this year, with the grand opening anticipated by the end of 2025.

This project reflects CROW’s unwavering commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The new Sea Turtle Complex will not only enhance care for injured sea turtles but also help restore hope for these threatened species and the ecosystem they inhabit.

Stay tuned for updates on this exciting initiative as it unfolds!

The Captiva Island Historical Society (CIHS) is kicking off its season with a Lunch Cruise to Tarpon Lodge on January 21. The event begins at 10 a.m., with participants departing from McCarthy’s Marina, located at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

Event Details

This unique experience includes a round-trip cruise from Captiva to Pine Island. Along the way, local historians Betty Anholt and Brian Holaway will share insights on the historical impacts of hurricanes on Pine Island Sound and the surrounding area.

Once on Pine Island, participants will enjoy lunch at the four-star Tarpon Lodge Restaurant, where owner Rob Wells will discuss the history of the 1926 building and its resilience in the face of hurricanes over the years.

Additional Information

• Cost: $90 per person (includes lunch).
• Presenting Sponsor: The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company supports this season’s CIHS events.
• Reservations: For more information or to secure your spot, visit www.captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org or call 239-472-2323.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a scenic cruise, a delicious meal, and captivating stories about the region’s history!

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on January 20. Adjustments to various departments and services include the following:

Community Development

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21 for regular hours

Domestic Animal Services

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21 at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers

LeeTran

• No service changes:
  Bus, trolley, tram, paratransit, and ULTRA on-demand services will operate as usual.
  • Route schedules and maps are available at www.rideleetran.com.

Library System

• Closed: January 20
• Reopens: January 21
  • Note: The Captiva Memorial Library and Johann Fust Community Library remain closed due to Hurricane Milton impacts.
  • Online library resources are available at www.leelibrary.net.

Parks & Recreation

• Open: Beaches, parks, preserves, and boat ramps
• Closed: Swimming pools, recreation centers, and administrative offices on January 20
• Reopens: January 21

Solid Waste

• No changes to collection schedules on January 20
• Closed: Solid Waste offices and the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility (6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers)

For further information, please contact the respective departments or visit their official websites. Lee County thanks residents for their understanding and wishes everyone a meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

After more than two years of recovery and rebuilding following the devastation of Hurricane Ian, Annette’s Beach Book Nook is celebrating its grand reopening at a new location in the Santini Marina Plaza, Fort Myers Beach. The event will take place on January 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., marking a significant milestone in the beloved bookstore’s journey back to serving the community.

When Hurricane Ian struck on September 28, 2022, Annette Stillson’s bookstore was flooded, and she lost approximately 5,000 books. Determined to rebuild, Stillson began restocking by donating her own personal book collection and crowd-sourcing inventory from supporters nationwide. Today, the store boasts an even larger inventory than before, thanks to the generosity of people across the country who sent thousands of books. Among the donations is a 1936 first-edition copy of Gone with the Wind, which is now available for $350.

The bookstore’s new location within the plaza is between The Islander gift shop and Leani’s Casual and Swimwear.

The reopening celebration promises to be a special event. About 24 local authors will sell their books both inside and outside the store. In a gesture of gratitude, Stillson is allowing the authors to keep 100% of their profits during the event. Stillson’s simple pricing model makes books affordable: most used hardbacks are priced at $5, and paperbacks are 50% off the listed price.

Stillson expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the store’s recovery:
“I feel blessed. I didn’t expect it. People from all over the country sent books, dropped them off at my house, or mailed them to the store. I ended up with more books than I started with.”

She also credited Yariv Shaked, the plaza’s owner, for his support. Shaked built the bookcases in the new store, providing vital assistance during the rebuilding process.
“It’s important to have a bookstore up and running,” Shaked said. “There aren’t many bookstores in Southwest Florida. People love the bookstore because you can find something you won’t find anywhere else.”

Annette’s Beach Book Nook is located in the Santini Marina Plaza at 7205 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. The store is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The inventory includes books for all interests, with many rare and vintage finds.

Annette’s Beach Book Nook is more than just a bookstore — it’s a testament to the resilience of the Fort Myers Beach community. Join the celebration on January 18 to support a local treasure, meet talented authors, and browse a diverse collection of books that continue to inspire and bring joy to readers.

Trailways Camp, a program that has been fostering connections and community for adults with special needs for over a decade, celebrated a significant milestone on January 7. With support from the SanCap Chamber, the organization inaugurated its new office on Sanibel, marking its first permanent home since its inception 12 years ago.

A New Chapter for Trailways Camp

After receiving its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2022, Trailways Camp was ready to establish a central hub for its growing operations. The new office, located on Causeway Road, is a remodeled space provided by SanCap Gateway Realty at a discounted rental rate.

“The Causeway Road location is ideal for accessibility to both Sanibel residents and those off-island,” said Trailways Camp Vice Chair Sharon Miller. “Being next door to the chamber headquarters also facilitates information sharing and collaboration with the community members and organizations that drive post-hurricane development.”

For years, the team managed operations from homes, donated spaces, storage units, and even “rolling suitcases.” This permanent office space signifies a new level of stability and growth for the organization.

Trailways Camp: A Legacy of Community and Inclusion

Since 2012, Trailways Camp has hosted 37 overnight camp sessions, providing special-needs adults with opportunities to connect, build friendships, and participate actively in community life. This year, the program was recognized as a partner agency by Lee County United Way, further solidifying its role in the community.

John Lai, President and CEO of the SanCap Chamber, welcomed the nonprofit to the neighborhood:
“Sanibel residents Sharon and Jerry Miller, along with their late son Benjamin — a beloved figure on the island — have done incredible work. With support from the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, Trailways Camp can continue to grow and thrive.”

A New Home, A Bright Future

The new office not only provides a dedicated space for meetings and training but also positions Trailways Camp to better serve the community and expand its impact. As the organization settles into its permanent home, it remains focused on its mission of creating meaningful experiences and fostering inclusion for adults with special needs.

For more information about Trailways Camp and its programs, visit Trailways Camp’s website.

The New Year brings fresh resolutions, and cutting energy costs is a goal that benefits both your wallet and the environment. On Jan. 10, National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, it’s the perfect time to adopt practices that reduce your utility bills while improving energy efficiency in your home.

According to SoFi, electricity is the most expensive utility in Florida, followed by gas, cable/internet, and water. With Florida ranked as the third-largest energy-consuming state in the U.S., the potential for cost-saving measures is immense. Small changes in energy use can lead to significant financial and environmental benefits.

Why Cutting Energy Costs Matters

Reducing your energy consumption:

• Saves money at the household level.
• Enhances the nation’s energy security.
• Decreases pollution from non-renewable energy sources.

Here are some practical tips from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to help you get started.

1. Stop “Vampire Loads”

Many electronics consume energy even when turned off, a phenomenon known as “vampire load.” This can account for up to 10% of a household’s total electricity use.
How to combat it:

• Invest in Advanced Power Strips (APS) to automatically cut power to devices when not in use.
• Unplug appliances like chargers and instant-on electronics when not needed.

2. Switch to LED Lighting

Lighting comprises about 15% of a home’s electricity use. Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights can save the average household $225 annually.
Tips for maximum savings:

• Look for LED bulbs with the Energy Star logo for optimal efficiency and lifespan.
• Swap out frequently used bulbs first for the biggest impact.

3. Optimize Space Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling systems are the biggest energy consumers in most homes, particularly during extreme weather.
Ways to improve efficiency:

• Replace old HVAC units with energy-efficient models, like heat pumps.
• Use a programmable thermostat to automate temperature control based on time and occupancy.
• Seal gaps and leaks using caulking and weatherstripping, and consider upgrading insulation.

4. Lower Water Heating Costs

After space heating and cooling, water heating is the second-largest energy expense in a home, costing $400-$600 per year.
Save on water heating by:

• Washing laundry with cold water whenever possible.
• Lowering your water heater thermostat to 120°F for safety and efficiency.
• Insulating your water heater and connected pipes.
• Replacing old water heaters with Energy Star-rated models.

Additional Resources

For more tips on saving energy:

• Visit the DOE’s Energy Saver page: energy.gov/energysaver/energy-saver.
• Explore the FGUA Sustainability page for water and energy-saving strategies: fgua.com/community/sustainability.

By adopting these simple energy-saving practices, you can lower your utility bills, reduce your environmental footprint, and make a positive impact on your community. Start small, stay consistent, and let National Cut Your Energy Costs Day inspire long-term savings!

The Sanibel Captiva Audubon Society invites bird enthusiasts and photography lovers to its “Tips & Tricks” Photography Program on January 29 at 9 a.m. at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, located at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

What to Expect

This free program is designed for beginners and seasoned photographers alike who want to improve their skills in capturing birds and nature. Topics include:

• Lighting and Composition: Mastering the art of creating visually appealing photos.
• Photography Gear: Tips on using various equipment, from smartphones to 35mm mirrorless cameras.
• Subject Techniques: How to photograph birds, scenery, people, and birds in flight.

“Capturing images of birds can be harder than it looks,” said Audubon Board Member Karl Werner. “This program aims to help bird enthusiasts not only with identification but also with producing stunning photos to treasure for years.”

Program Format

The program will have two parts, each lasting 45 minutes to an hour:

1. Classroom Discussion: A comprehensive overview of techniques, tips, and tools.
2. Field Practice: Participants will venture out on Indigo Trail or Wildlife Drive to apply what they’ve learned.

“The bird activity can be unpredictable,” Werner noted. “Be prepared to explore either trail depending on where the action is.”

Important Details

• Meeting Point: Participants should gather at The Roost, next to the refuge’s main parking lot.
• Wildlife Drive Admission: $10 per vehicle or free with an entrance pass or Duck Stamp.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, photography gear, and enthusiasm for wildlife photography!

For more information, visit www.san-capaudubon.org.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your photography skills while enjoying the beauty of Sanibel’s wildlife and natural landscapes!