New residents and business owners of Sanibel and Captiva Islands joined SCCF staff members for a day of adventure and learning last week during an Environmental Orientation for New Islanders. The orientation highlighted the different program areas of SCCF and educated attendees about the unique environment of our barrier islands.  

Guests started their day at the Bailey Homestead where they learned about the basic ecology of the islands and visited the Native Landscapes & Garden Center. The group traveled to SCCF’s Marine Laboratory to learn about research projects marine biologists are working on to better understand the waters within the estuaries of Pine Island Sound.

Members of SCCF’s Wildlife and Habitat Management, Policy, and Sea Turtle teams also met up with the group to present their areas of expertise. Attendees were able to ask staff questions about the state of the islands regarding wildlife recovery, habitat loss, and areas of concern on SCCF preserve lands post-Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton. 

After learning about our coastal environment on land, islanders boarded one of Captiva Cruises’ motorized catamarans to get an up-close look at Pine Island Sound. Residents birded from the boat, guided by an SCCF shorebird biologist, followed by a lesson on marine creatures found in seagrass beds by a Sanibel Sea School Marine Science Educator. 

“Enthusiastic, knowledgeable experts shared their depth of expertise to help show all of us why Sanibel is so special, and the intricate balance of plants and animals to make it so. A learning, beautiful day!” Said orientation attendee Jim Toupes. 

Are you a new resident or business owner to Sanibel or Captiva Islands within the last two years? Two more orientation days will be offered this season! Sign up Tuesday, March 4 or Tuesday, April 1 to learn more about what makes the islands’ environment so special and unique! Click here to learn more.