A preserve on Sanibel is back open to the public after a major transformation.
The Puschel Preserve was used as a debris piling site after hurricane Ian devasted the island.
After 2.5 years of debris clearing, replanting, invasive species management and setbacks from subsequent storms, the preserve is back to serve its original purpose.
The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation is saying a huge thank you to all the volunteers who helped.
SCCF stepped in to acquire the property on Periwinkle Way in 2021 when it was nearly re-developed for 13 homes.
Thanks to donations from 150 families, it has remained a crucial wildlife corridor. It now houses a solar charging station, gardens, a trail and marsh land.
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest breaking news and weather alerts.