In a powerful display of collaboration and coastal stewardship, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) partnered on Dec. 19 with the Sanibel-Captiva Sail and Power Squadron, MANG Gear, and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to plant 700 mangroves on Givney Key, a vital rookery island located at the southern end of Matlacha Pass.

The restoration effort focused on stabilizing shorelines and enhancing habitat on Givney Key, an ecologically significant island that supports nesting and roosting waterbirds. Following significant damage from Hurricane Ian, Givney Key has experienced a drastic decline in nesting birds over
the past three seasons. Natural recovery has been slow, prompting the four partners to come together to give the island a much-needed helping hand.

Volunteers from the Sanibel-Captiva Sail and Power Squadron traveled to the island on their own boats, providing the volunteer force necessary to complete the planting in challenging coastal conditions.

MANG Gear supplied the majority of the red mangroves planted at the site, supporting the restoration of critical shoreline habitat. Staff from J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge transported the mangroves and SCCF staff to the island and provided on-site guidance, as Givney Key is owned and managed by the Refuge.

“Mangrove restoration is essential to the long-term health of our coastal waters and wildlife,” said SCCF Coastal Watch Director Kealy Pfau. “This project highlights what is possible when community partners unite around a shared conservation goal.”

The 700 newly planted mangroves will help strengthen Givney Key’s resilience, improve water quality in Matlacha Pass, and support the diverse bird species that depend on rookery islands for nesting and roosting.

This project reflects a continued commitment to collaborative conservation and the protection of Southwest Florida’s coastal habitats for future generations