Discover Englewood 2023
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1491872
T hanks to the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, about 8 acres of woodlands next to the Don Pedro Island State Park may soon be set aside from development. And if conservationists have their way, the land will eventually be added to the barrier island state park on the Cape Haze Peninsula in the Charlotte County portion of Englewood. The Conservation Foundation announced the purchase, stating the group used money from its "dedicated land fund, multiple liquid assets and a short-term loan," to make the $2.69 million purchase, completed Dec. 15. "We are grateful to those who have contributed to our Land Fund, as well as the landowner who worked with us for three years to enable a conservation partnership," Conservation Foundation President Christine P. Johnson stated. "It is our hope to now resell the property to the State of Florida as an addition to Don Pedro Island State Park, protecting the park's natural beauty and enhancing recreation opportunities for all to enjoy." Don Pedro is a state park in two pieces. The state of Florida bought 129 acres of Don Pedro Island – including its secluded pristine beaches and its pavilion and picnic area – in 1985 to conserve as a state park. Fifteen years later, the state bought 100 more acres of mainland property across the narrow channel to the island. The mainland portion, now called Don Pedro Landbase, includes hiking trails, a kayak rental and launch, and parking for the ferry to the beaches. The beach portion of the state park was closed following Hurricane Ian on Sept. 28. Mother Nature Gets a Boost Local foundation adds to Don Pedro Island State Park Conservation Foundation buys 8 acres of woodland next to recreation area A snowy plover sits on its sandy nest on the barrier island portion of Don Pedro State Park in Englewood. PHOTO BY MARY LUNDEBERG Gopher tortoises have established burrows on conserved land at Don Pedro State Park in Englewood. NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA 18 18 Discover Englewood 2023