Help Us Collect Propagules

Help SCCF's Coastal Watch restore hurricane-damaged mangrove habitats in Southwest Florida by collecting mangrove propagules for us to use in restoration plantings. This initiative is a partnership with Captains for Clean Water.

coastal watch captains for clean water

How to Participate

Red mangrove propagules look like green and brown cigars or long green beans. You can find them on beaches, floating in water, or stacked up along seawalls or boat ramps. Gather them anywhere from Charlotte Harbor to Marco Island! 

Store propagules vertically, with the brown side down. Keep buckets in cool, dry areas where they are not directly exposed to the elements.

Good Propagules

Proper Storage

Collection Region:  Charlotte Harbor to Marco Island

How NOT to Participate

DON'T collect mangroves that are connected to the tree or are cracked, dried out, or broken in half. It is illegal to collect propagules from state parks, national parks, and private property. Do not store mangroves with water in the buckets — They will be fine as long as they are not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Avoid Cracked, Dried, and Broken Propagules

Leave Propagules On the Tree

DON'T Collect from Parks or Private Property

Propagule Drop-Off Sites

  • SCCF Bailey Homestead, 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
  • Marine Max, 14030 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
  • Marina Mike's, 19300 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33908
  • Bay Water Boat Club, 5124 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
mangrove planting