In celebration of Earth Day, Sanibel School students partnered up with SCCF to plant marsh grasses in SCCF’s Pick Preserve on April 22. 

This planting was made possible through a generous donation from Bank of the Islands, which donated the 500 salt-tolerant plants. 

“We have enjoyed such longstanding and meaningful relationships with both SCCF and The Sanibel School over many years in different ways,” said Robbie Roepstorff, president of Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands. “Being able to come together for this special Earth Day event was both memorable for the students and a positive step forward for our island community’s continuing hurricane recovery.”

The Pick Preserve is located right across the street from the Sanibel School, making it the perfect outdoor classroom for students to immerse themselves in hands-on learning. After seeing the changes the preserve underwent after recent hurricanes, students were inspired to plant marsh grasses to help restore this recovering habitat. SCCF’s Coastal Watch was on site to help transport grasses and oversee the planting.

Marshes act as a natural barrier for future storms, providing critical protection for the island. The Pick Preserve is a vital link within the surrounding preserved lands, enhancing the function of interior freshwater habitats. This restored marsh will serve as a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife, including the rare Sanibel Island rice rat (Oryzomys palustris sanibeli), which is endemic to Sanibel.

The preserve was named for Tom and Sue Pick, who purchased the property to be held as an SCCF preserve in perpetuity.