SCCF Annual Report 2020-21

Annual Report
July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021

SCCF's mission
is to protect and
care for Southwest
Florida’s coastal

ecosystems.

OUR WORK FOCUSES ON:
Environmental Education

Land and Wildlife
Policy and Advocacy
Sea Turtles and Shorebirds
Water Quality Research

Cover photo by HOW YOU Please become a member or renew your membership by
Shane Antalick CAN HELP using the enclosed envelope or donating at www.sccf.org.

TDear Valued Members and Friends,
his year was a remarkable turning point for SCCF. We
adopted a bold and broader mission statement – to

protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal
ecosystems. After more than five decades, we rebranded

with a fresh logo that reflects our expanded focus on land,

water, and wildlife.

Our team worked wonders this year despite a global

pandemic. We adapted, enhanced our resilience, and

flourished thanks to the incredible generosity and support Ryan Orgera Don Rice
of our members and community. As a trailblazing leader in

conservation since our incorporation in 1967, SCCF officially

declared this year that in order to protect Sanibel and Captiva we must be the voice for larger

systems beyond our shores.

After all, no island can be just an island when we are taking a stand for clean water, resilient

coasts, healthy wetlands, and thriving wildlife.

With unprecedented support from our donors, we retained our roots in land conservation as we

strategically targeted and acquired more than 84 acres. From a capital campaign that wrapped up

five months early for critical wetlands on Sanibel, to mangroves along the Caloosahatchee and near

the causeway toll both, to salt flats in San Carlos Bay, we invested in lands with enduring value.

(See page 10.)

We established with evidence our credibility as a highly prominent authority on water quality

research and other environmental policy matters throughout our region. James Evans began as our

new Environmental Policy Director, taking the helm of a critically important movement to advocate

for our environmental needs. In March of 2021, we entered into a partnership with the Conservancy of

Southwest Florida to hire a shared hydrologic modeler, Paul Julian, PhD. In that same month, Captiva

Erosion Prevention District approved a grant to create a partnership on coastal resilience. In April, we

signed an agreement with the Center for Coastal Solutions of the University of Florida to undertake

joint water quality research, share data, and work toward finding policy solutions for our waters.

By strengthening our wildlife protection initiatives, our team managed to care for nearly a

thousand sea turtle nests, monitor our shorebirds, discover rare land turtles, restore oyster reefs, and

so much more you will learn about in this report.

We also sustained and enhanced our education programming in the face of seemingly

insurmountable obstacles. Thanks to the incredible creativity and commitment to science of our

dedicated educators at the Sanibel Sea School, we safely educated children and families, following

Centers for Disease Control guidelines. We also brought you virtual Evenings at the Homestead,

the astounding astronaut (and more) Kathy Sullivan through the Paul McCarthy Memorial Lecture,

insightful water quality and management presentations, and SCCF’s first-ever City Council

Candidate Forum on the Environment.

Our entire team, from scientists to administration staffers, pulled together to make this year

a success.

The truth is that this year’s challenges were met by the most extraordinary generosity and

support—two things for which our islands are renowned. We have never experienced a place with

folks so willing to care, so willing to help. We are so grateful for all that you have done for us this

year, and in turn for what you have allowed us to do for our shared natural world. Stay well and stay

connected to nature.

Warmly,

Ryan Orgera Don Rice
CEO President

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 1

Water Quality Research

Red Tide and Water Quality localized cell counts can provide local guides by Coastal Watch and
Research Expands guidance to beachgoers so they the results may bolster scientists’
Red tide research at the SCCF can avoid a bloom. Since 2018, red understanding of how red tide
Marine Laboratory consists tide sampling has been expanded events can injure and kill
of expanded monitoring to a grid of sites in the Gulf of shorebirds.
during red tide events, routine Mexico and around the islands
monitoring in the Gulf of Mexico through funding from the Vince Two Academic Partnerships
and Caloosahatchee, and an family and Goldman Sachs Gives.
investigation of sick shorebirds This systematic sampling effort With the River, Estuary and Coastal
and their fish prey that were is conducted every three months Observing Network (RECON) as
suspected to be related to and fills in data gaps missing from one of the best and most reliable
red tide toxins. The expanded the state of Florida’s sampling at coastal sensor networks in Florida,
monitoring of the dinoflagellate the swimming beaches. SCCF’s water quality research and
that causes red tide, Karenia reputation has attracted many
brevis, was greatly aided by Sickened Shorebird Study new colleagues eager to work on
dedicated volunteers who brought In collaboration with the University marine biological research and
in water samples from all parts of Florida (UF) and Clinic for hydrological research around
of the islands. After the samples Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), Sanibel and Captiva. SCCF signed
are analyzed, the information the Marine Lab was able to obtain agreements with the Florida Gulf
is updated to a map showing National Oceanic and Atmospheric Coast University (FGCU) Water
locations and concentrations Administration funding to measure School and UF Center for Coastal
sampled from the past seven days red tide toxins (brevetoxins) in Solutions to share data, coordinate
to share with SCCF members and sickened shorebirds and their research, and expand the impact of
local media outlets. Generally, potential planktivorous fish prey SCCF Marine Lab research beyond
algal blooms are patchy, so highly items. The fish were collected from this region.

2 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

City of Sanibel and Captiva Water Quality Projects Continue

Jordon Marsh was constructed to The Jordan Marsh, East End management practices in
decrease nitrogen and phosphorus in canals, and neighborhood their neighborhoods. The
the Sanibel Slough. ponds were sampled in lab staff are also actively
cooperation with the City engaged with the Captiva
Drone aerial by Leah Reidenbach of Sanibel’s Community for Community Panel to
Clean Water program and provide data analyses and
city staff. The nutrient and recommendations for the
water monitoring efforts island’s planned conversion
at the Jordan Marsh and from septic tanks to a
Slough provide guidance centralized sewer system
to improve management of and advice for decreasing
stormwater and encourage nutrient concentrations in the
citizens to employ best water surrounding the island.

Four Acres of Oyster Reef Ding Darling Partnership Volunteer boat captains collect
Restored SCCF’s longstanding baitfish for a red tide toxin study on
SCCF has been leading oyster partnership with J.N. “Ding”
reef restoration efforts in the Darling National Wildlife shorebirds.
Charlotte Harbor region since Refuge led to the new Marine
2008. In partnership with the Laboratory facility being
Lee County Division of Marine finished in 2018. SCCF continues
Resources and Florida Fish to conduct monthly water
and Wildlife Conservation quality monitoring and annual
Commission, the lab has seagrass surveys in the refuge
restored four acres of reef. Our to evaluate the effects of
monitoring of restored reefs flow and rainfall on the health
and reference reefs continues to of the marine ecosystem. In
support the need for successful collaboration with the refuge
oyster reef restoration in Florida. biologist, manager, and deputy
In collaboration with FGCU manager, SCCF relocated a
researchers, the transport of continuous sensor that provides
larvae and oyster settlement are detailed information about
being modeled and monitored in impounded areas of the refuge
the lower estuary, San Carlos Bay, that can be restored with
and Pine Island Sound to better additional culverts or bridging
inform future restoration efforts. along Wildlife Drive.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 3

Sea Turtles Understanding How
Sand Properties Impact
SCCF Monitors Sea Turtle Harmful Algal Bloom Study Hatching Success
Nesting, Hatching on The immediate impacts of harmful
Several Fronts algal blooms on sea turtles are clear: Beach erosion due to storms,
almost 1,300 sick or dead turtles were hurricanes, and sea level rise
Florida hosts the world’s documented during the 2018 red tide is an increasing problem in
largest population of nesting crisis. However, the long-term effects Florida, where one of the
loggerheads (Caretta caretta), of a catastrophic bloom are not well anthropogenic responses
making SCCF’s work critical understood. Does exposure to the is beach renourishment.
for the conservation of the toxins negatively impact health after the While this can create nesting
species. Thirty years of nesting bloom has dissipated? Could unhealthy habitat, changes in the
data on Sanibel suggest that turtles produce poorly provisioned physical properties of non-
nesting on our beaches is on eggs, reducing hatching success? Are native sand may alter critical
the rise. This encouraging news the toxins transferred from the nesting characteristics of the nest
is a testament to decades female to her hatchlings? If so, how do microclimate, such as sand
of concerted conservation the toxins affect the embryos? temperature, moisture, gas
efforts, but the population exchange, and porosity. SCCF
remains imperiled. Sea turtles In 2019, SCCF’s sea turtle team set is characterizing how the color,
face enormous challenges in out to assess these potential threats. grain size, bulk density, and
Florida, including harmful algal After three years of data collection, compaction of sand affects on
blooms, fisheries, sea level we have learned that livers sampled sea turtle incubation Sanibel
rise, coastal development, and in 2019-2020 tested positive for and Captiva.
ocean pollution. In addition brevetoxins, indicating maternal
to protecting nests laid on transfer does occur. The next step will Shane Antalick
Sanibel and Captiva, SCCF is be to explore the relationships among
devising creative ways to learn maternal health, hatch success, and
more about these problems to pathological abnormalities in hatchlings.
inform management and policy A comprehensive evaluation will be
solutions. completed when analyses are finalized
in 2022.

Shane Antalick Installing monitoring station
photographed this
hatchling close to the Where Do Sea Turtles Establish Residency?
Sanibel coastline.
Between 2017 and 2019, SCCF satellite-
tagged 14 endangered green sea turtles
(Chelonia mydas) that nested on Sanibel
and Keewaydin. The goal was to delineate
sites that may serve as high-use areas for
reproductively active females. Modeling
shows waters surrounding Cape Sable, Florida
Bay, and the Marquesas are important foraging
areas that support individuals tagged on Southwest
Florida beaches. Understanding where green sea turtles
forage and remain resident is key to designing surveys to
assess foraging resources and protection strategies to
improve recovery trajectories.

It Takes a Team
“Each season presents different challenges and victories, and we are so fortunate to have a team that can
adapt to the shifting demands every year,” says Coastal Wildlife Director Kelly Sloan. “The tenacity of our
amazing staff and volunteers allows us to contribute to the ongoing protection of sea turtles.”

4 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Shorebirds 20 Years
monitoring these precious plovers
Shorebird Nesting, Unexplained
Illness Closely Monitored SANIBEL NESTING STATS WILSON’S PLOVERS
The end of the 2021 shorebird • 1 nesting pair
nesting season marked an important SNOWY PLOVERS • 1 nest attempt
milestone for the SCCF Shorebird • 4 nesting pairs • 3 chicks fledged
Program: Staff and volunteers • 9 nest attempts
completed the 20th season of • 4 nests hatched 12 chicks
monitoring snowy plovers (Charadrius • 3 chicks fledged
nivosus) on Sanibel and Captiva. A • 5 nests failed
summary of two decades of research
will be produced prior to the 2022 Totals don’t include North Captiva or Bunche Beach
season.
In 2021, least terns (Sternula
antillarum) were observed foraging
along Sanibel’s shoreline, but
ultimately did not nest on the island.
A single pair of Wilson’s plovers
(Charadrius wilsonia) successfully
fledged three chicks and four pairs of
snowy plovers fledged three chicks.
All chicks were banded to allow
researchers to track their movements.
SCCF continues to conduct year-
round, monthly surveys of Sanibel
and Captiva to count all shorebirds,
document the presence of threatened
and endangered species, and resight
banded birds.
In the early spring, dozens of sick
and dead seabirds were observed
on the causeway and Sanibel’s
beaches. The majority were young
royal terns (Thalasseus maximus).
SCCF partnered with local agencies
to determine the cause of the
mortality event, and research into
whether it’s linked to red tide toxins
(brevetoxins) is ongoing. Dozens
of shorebirds were admitted to
the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of
Wildlife (CROW), including snowy
plovers and migratory species, such
as sanderlings (Calidris alba), ruddy
turnstones (Arenaria interpres), and
least sandpipers (Calidris minutilla).
Some were rehabilitated and released
but others did not survive. Specimens
were collected for testing and results
are pending. These illnesses and
deaths in the spring are especially
concerning because it means a loss
of potential nesting adults for the
breeding season.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 5

Policy & Advocacy Year in Review

Estuary Tours Raise Awareness About Water Quality Lake Okeechobee System
and Restoration Needs Operating Manual (LOSOM)

During the past fiscal year, SCCF took local, state, and federal leaders The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
on informational tours of the Caloosahatchee estuary and Pine Island is developing a new operating
Sound to discuss water quality issues, policies, and restoration needs. plan for Lake Okeechobee that will
Tours included South Florida Water Management District Governing go into effect in 2022. The Lake
Board Chairman Chauncey Goss, Sanibel Mayor Holly Smith, Miami Okeechobee System Operating
Commissioner Ken Russell, Congressman Byron Donalds (District 19), Manual (LOSOM) will guide
and Congressman Charlie Crist (District 13). how the lake is managed and
determine when and where water
James Evans Becomes New SCCF and Conservancy Team Up is released. SCCF policy staff
Environmental Policy Director to Hire Hydrologic Modeler have been evaluating modeling
data and working with local
In September 2020, James Evans In March, SCCF partnered with stakeholders and elected officials
joined SCCF as the Environmental the Conservancy of Southwest to support a plan that will balance
Policy Director following the Florida to hire Paul Julian, Ph.D., the needs of the Caloosahatchee
retirement of longtime director as a new hydrologic modeler. and west coast communities with
Rae Ann Wessel in May 2020. This partnership expands the other parts of the system. Public
Prior to joining SCCF, he was the organizations’ scientific capabilities outreach on preferred alternatives
Director of Natural Resources and fills an important need for will be critical to ensure that a
for the City of Sanibel, where he modeling expertise in the region. balanced plan is adopted.
spent more than 20 years as a Julian worked for the Florida
biologist and resource manager. Department of Environmental
His expertise made for a seamless Protection for the past 10 years as
transition. the Everglades Technical Lead.

6 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Action Alert Victories and Advocacy During Legislative Session Coastal Watch Invites
Action alerts are a critical tool for connecting advocates with Community to Grow Mangroves
environmental issues. During the past year, more than 5,000
advocates responded to SCCF’s calls to action and sent almost Coastal Watch had a banner year
30,000 emails to legislators and/or agency representatives. with the successful launch of
Because of your advocacy, successes in the 2021 legislative session “Back to Our Roots,” a community
included: advocacy initiative to learn about,
• $522 million for Everglades Restoration projects grow, and restore mangroves on
• $400 million for the Florida Forever Land Acquisition Program Sanibel and Captiva. More than
• $500 million for Resiliency Grant Trust Fund Program to address 150 mangrove propagules were
shared with individuals who cared
flooding and sea level rise for them at home. The budding
• $500 million for septic-to-sewer and wastewater infrastructure mangroves will be planted at a
local restoration site to stabilize
projects shorelines and prevent future
• $750,000 for Sanibel Sewer Phase IV Expansion Project erosion. Back to Our Roots will
• Passed SB 776/HB 783 Racketeering of Aquatic and Wild continue annually to help restore
multiple sites throughout Sanibel
Animal Life, which gives more options to Florida wildlife and Captiva.
agencies for prosecuting wildlife trafficking crimes

Southwest Florida Adopts Resiliency Compact

Southwest Florida communities local governments to unite
took their first step towards collectively against the impacts
making the region more resilient of sea level rise, harmful algal
to the impacts of climate change blooms, increasing storm intensity,
and sea level rise. By April 2021, and other climate change-driven
had officially joined all local issues. Policy staff worked
governments in Charlotte, Lee, closely with Florida Gulf Coast
and Collier counties officially University, the City of Sanibel, and
joined the Southwest Florida nongovernmental organizations to
Regional Resiliency Compact. The usher in its adoption.
Compact will enable participating

Drone aerial at Franklin Lock New Drone Expands Water
Quality Monitoring Capabilities
A picture is worth a thousand
words. By documenting water
quality and ecological conditions,
SCCF scientists can now track
water quality visually over time.
A Coastal and Heartland National
Estuary Partnership (CHNEP)
grant allowed the purchase of
a professional-grade drone and
staff training. The images are
incorporated into the weekly
Caloosahatchee & Estuary
Conditions Report and posted
on SCCF’s new Aerial Water
Quality Website to help make a
compelling argument for coastal
ecosystems protection and
restoration.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 7

Campers Return
to the Waters

Summer camp is the heart and soul of Sanibel Sea School, Shane Antalick Ocean Tribe Paddling Club
so after a temporary COVID hiatus, staff were thrilled to
welcome campers and counselors back to campus. In June, Embarks on Enchanting
Sanibel Sea School kicked off 20-plus unique weeks of camp
for kids ages 4 to 17 that ran through August. From “Sea Squirts Excursions
Camp” for the littlest ocean explorers to teen adventure-based
paddle camps, there was an ocean-themed camp for everyone. Through monthly meetups
on local waters, Ocean Tribe
This year was extra special because Paddling Club members gather on
Sanibel Sea School opened a brand- paddleboards and kayaks to enjoy
new summer camp location at SCCF’s the ocean together. The mission
Bailey Homestead Preserve. The vast of the club is to assist Southwest
grassy spaces and lush nature trails Florida’s paddling community
created spaces for campers to explore with exploring and learning more
and play games while being immersed about the marine ecosystem to
in Sanibel’s natural environment. inspire stewardship. The Ocean
Campers used the pavilion as a home Tribe Paddling Club has grown to
base for lunch, activities, and circle 50-plus members from all walks
time, and traveled to the beaches of life.
each day in vans.
Many magical ocean moments Paddling around San Carlos Bay,
happened at both the Flagship and Bowman’s Beach, and Sanibel’s
Homestead locations: hundreds of winding canals, the group
cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus) enjoys encounters with the local
gliding through the shallows, epic surf wildlife. Members have explored
paddle races, rainy afternoon card sand flats teeming with tidal
games in the Kennedy Building, and sea creatures and wading birds
snorkeling in the bay at sunset. The and were enchanted by glowing
best part was seeing campers reunite bioluminescence on an evening
together on Sanibel, creating new paddle with club coordinator
ocean memories that will last Kealy McNeal.
a lifetime.
Interested in becoming a member
of the Ocean Tribe Paddling Club?
Visit oceantribeoutfitters.org.
See you on the water!

8 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Shane Antalick Bringing the Gulf to Landlocked Scholarships Provide Ocean
Communities Education for All

Fewer school-based field trips happened in 2020, so At Sanibel Sea School, cost is never a
Sanibel Sea School educators made sure to bring the barrier to learning about, and loving,
ocean to kids in Fort Myers. Partnering with Childcare Sanibel’s ecosystems. In the 2020-21 fiscal
of Southwest Florida, The Heights Foundation, and year, 202 scholarships were granted—which
Pine Manor Community Improvement Association, equated to approving 100 percent of
educators offered interactive classroom visits to teach scholarship requests.
kids about Southwest Florida’s marine ecosystems.
The classroom visits included special guests such DONOR-SUPPORTED SCHOLARSHIP FUND
as sea urchins, anemones, and slimy mollusks that MADE POSSIBLE:
students were able to hold and observe. These hands-
on experiences allow students to connect to the ocean  44 scholarships for children to attend
and see the real-life wonders that live just beyond the
Sanibel Causeway. day programs
Sanibel Sea School’s landlocked programs are offered
to these community organizations free of charge  129 scholarships for children to attend
and are funded by our generous, donor-supported
scholarship fund. weekly summer or winter camps

 Field trips for 247 public school students

 Long-term partnerships with three
organizations: The Heights Foundation,
Childcare of Southwest Florida, and
Pine Manor Community Improvement
Association

 Meaningful experiences for 1,344

landlocked children in the region

 $34,042 in financial support for

summer camp tuition assistance

No Child Left on Shore
No Child Left on Shore is a hands-on learning
program that fills a vital need to provide
the children of Southwest Florida with an
informative and fun way to gain experiential
knowledge of the ecology of the local marine
environment. This enriching initiative enables
local youth to form a deeper connection to their
coastal surroundings and sparks their curiosity.

This environmental education outreach project
is a partnership between SCCF and Captiva
Cruises that provides on-the-water field trips for
local youth groups who don’t have the financial
or logistical means for this type of opportunity.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 9

Year of Land Acquisition

A Hallmark Year for Land Preservation

Before its 2020-21 fiscal year, SCCF had not had a significant
increase in its preserved land portfolio since the acquisition
of the Bailey Homestead Preserve a decade ago. This past
year demonstrated that SCCF’s proud history as a land trust
continues as approximately 84 acres were donated or acquired
in four significant locations.

Gretchen C. Valade Preserve Cape Coral Parcel Puschel Preserve
With a gift from her family to The family of Dr. Franklin Miles Saving 12.25 acres on Sanibel
recognize their mother’s stature donated 44.27 acres of land in through the Periwinkle Wetlands
as a longstanding SCCF major Cape Coral to SCCF. Surrounded campaign was the pinnacle of a
donor, the Gretchen C. Valade by already protected land owned great conservation year. SCCF is
Preserve has saved 2.2 acres by the State of Florida, this extremely grateful to lead donors
along Sanibel’s Pine Avenue estuarine habitat will benefit Roberta and Philip Puschel and
and San-Cap Road. The removal smalltooth sawfish, diamondback the 175 additional donors who
of exotic trees and bushes will terrapins, marine mammals, and made this acquisition possible.
bring in sunlight and restore this many wading bird species. Restoration is already underway,
preserve as prime tortoise habitat. as well as plans for creating
It will also provide deeded unique community space along
bay access for water quality the preserve’s Periwinkle Way
monitoring. frontage.

McGregor Acreage
Using the new Land Acquisition and Improvement Fund
made possible by a very generous anonymous donor,
SCCF acquired three parcels near the Sanibel Causeway
tollbooth on McGregor Boulevard. Totaling 25.25 acres,
these parcels were important acquisition targets because
many of the adjacent lots are privately owned and some
development has already occurred. Mangrove habitats
reduce hurricane impacts and are invaluable for many
species of marine and terrestrial wildlife.

10 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Thank YouVolunteer Thanks

We Couldn't Do it Without You!
We’re so grateful to all of our dedicated volunteers, who continued
to engage with SCCF and offer their time and energy during this very
difficult year. We could not have continued our good work without you!

Hammerheads Socially distanced sea turtle
The Hammerheads were essential volunteers painted thousands of
in keeping operations running
smoothly despite not being able nest-marking stakes.
to gather for coffee and donuts ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 11
on the porch this year.

Wildlife & Habitat Management

Turtles, Indigo Snakes,
Amphibians in the Spotlight

SCCF Florida Box Turtle Project Terrestrial and Freshwater Turtle With the increasing pressures
Takes Off Volunteer Group placed on this group of turtles,
assistance was needed to help
The SCCF Florida Box Turtle The SCCF Terrestrial and with conservation and research
Project has made big strides this Freshwater Turtle Volunteer efforts on Sanibel. This has been
year with more residents and Group was launched in July a highly successful effort that has
businesses reporting turtles that 2020 with about 20 helpers. increased awareness around the
they encounter. Robust publicity island of the issues turtles are
distributed through SCCF, media facing and also brought in large
outlets, and word of mouth has amounts of data from surveys and
brought awareness to the project, incidental occurrences.
resulting in a sharp increase of
reports. Radio and GPS telemetry SCCF Joins International Effort
are providing a glimpse of to Combat Turtle Trafficking
their annual cycle and activity. In February 2021, SCCF Wildlife
Monitored box turtles that were & Habitat Management Program
released after a 2019 confiscation Director Chris Lechowicz was
of poached turtles have shown a appointed to the Collaborative
variety of behaviors, from setting to Combat the Illegal Trade
up similar home ranges as native in Turtles—a partnership of
wild populations to wandering state, federal, academic, law
great distances. SCCF’s project enforcement, and nonprofit
is quickly becoming the largest conservation professionals
box turtle conservation effort working to battle the trafficking
and second largest dataset in of North America’s native turtles.
the state.

12 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Tracking Elusive Wetland FrogWatch Invasives Removal Ongoing for
Species Frog call surveys in 2020, as Restoration
SCCF research efforts on part of the national FrogWatch Invasive plant removal has been
Florida chicken turtles (D. citizen-science collective, consistent throughout the year
r. chrysea) and Florida mud showed a similar trend as in past with Brazilian pepper (Schinus
turtles (K. steindachneri) have years. Even though the invasive terebinthifolius) the main targeted
accelerated since SCCF was Cuban treefrogs (Osteopilus species on SCCF properties.
able to attach transmitters to septentrionalis) are the dominant This highly invasive tree spreads
these ephemeral (temporary frog in most habitats, green quickly from seeds dispersed
wetland) species, which are treefrogs (Hyla cinerea) are still through bird droppings. Invasive
underground a good portion holding their own in most native cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica)
of the year and only emerge habitats. Unfortunately, the has become more of a threat
when there is plenty of smaller, native squirrel treefrog as habitat management staff
standing water. SCCF staff was (Hyla septentrionalis), whose continues to target new spots.
able to document nesting and numbers have dwindled over This grass has rhizome roots
clutch size on chicken turtles, the years, has not been heard that spread far underground and
and correlate emergence in several years and may have establish new patches.
and dormancy times with succumbed to the Cuban treefrog.
environmental cues that Wildlife Cams
trigger these cycles for both The installation of new wildlife
species. cameras has been very helpful
in monitoring visitor traffic—
Diamondback Terrapin including the nighttime roaming
Protection of coyotes and bobcats—on
SCCF’s comprehensive SCCF’s preserves.
diamondback terrapin
(Malaclemys terrapin) research
in Lee County has led to
the entire Charlotte Harbor/
Pine Island Sound area to
be included in one of five
zones statewide chosen for
bycatch reduction device
(BRD) legislation to prevent
accidental drowning in crab
pots. If this law passes, it will
require BRDs to be installed
on all blue crab traps, which
unintentionally drown
terrapins. BRDs have been
shown to prevent 73.2 percent
of terrapins from entering a
submerged trap where they
are likely to drown.

Eastern Indigo Snake Sightings
Decrease

The Pine Island Sound Eastern
Indigo Snake Project has
had a slow year as sightings
have decreased. There is high
concern on North Captiva that
the increased development of
vacant lots and visitor traffic is
likely causing more encounters
with humans. This may be a
cause of the fewer sightings.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 13

Native Landscapes Wildflower Grant Benefits
& Garden Center and Wetlands Demonstration Garden
Educational Programs The Native Landscapes and
Garden Center received a Viva
Despite pandemic limitations, the SCCF Florida grant from the Florida
Native Landscapes and Garden Center and Wildflower Foundation to revamp
new educational programs thrived. the wetland portion of the
pollinator demonstration gardens
at the Bailey Homestead. With
over 30 species in the garden
that provide year-round blooms,
it is continually abuzz with bees,
butterflies, and other pollinating
insects.

Virtual Evenings at the
Homestead Feature International
Speakers
Evenings at the Homestead
shifted to an entirely virtual
format this year and was able to
present speakers from around
the world to the SCCF audience.
From sea turtles and sawfish to
sand dunes, experts presented a
variety of lectures on topics near
and dear to SCCF’s mission.

The Green Readers Connect
Through Nature-Themed Books

Native Landscaping Grows in Popularity A nature-inspired book club
seemed like a natural fit when
Native plant gardening remains a popular activity, many people were spending a
evident by the fact that more than 12,000 plants lot of time at home this year.
were sold at the Native Landscapes and Garden The Green Readers book club
Center. New and longtime residents continue to transition was born out of the desire to
their yards and landscapes to support local wildlife. SCCF connect with SCCF members in a
staff consulted on 68 different properties and designed different way—through the shared
landscapes and installed plants at 30 residences. experience of reading. Each
During pandemic restrictions, the Native Landscapes and month, topics revolved around
Garden Center shifted to online orders with delivery and each of SCCF’s program areas, a
curbside pickup. Even though the Garden Center is back Facebook group communicated
to being open for in-person visits, customers are still able information throughout the
to shop online and request curbside pickup and delivery. month, and Zoom meetings
These services were popular enough to make them a allowed for informal conversation
permanent option. about the book’s topics.

14 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Weeds ‘n’ Seeds Virtual Walks Pick Preserve Perfect Outdoor Pick Preserve
Enjoyed Nationwide Classroom for The Sanibel
Weeds ‘n’ Seeds, a group School
of amateur botanists, found
a creative way to continue SCCF is committed to providing
exploring the flora around a helping hand in environmental
the island this year. Led education at The Sanibel
by a tenacious group of School. A major component in
volunteers, leaders would fulfilling this mission is SCCF’s
“guide” participants on a virtual Pick Preserve, which is located
walk while another leader directly across the street from
supplemented the information the school. For the past 20 years,
with close-up plant pictures and Pick Preserve has been utilized
descriptions from a home studio. as an outdoor classroom. The
This method allowed participants nature trail, boardwalk, gazebo,
to join in from around the country, and contiguous 400 acres of
and it was so popular, organizers mid-island ridge and interior
are exploring ways to continue a freshwater habitats make the
hybrid virtual/in-person format preserve an ideal setting to
next year. incorporate environmental science
into curriculum goals. SCCF
“Natives in the Garden” educators assist the kindergarten
Combines Art and Nature through eighth-grade teachers at
Artists are creative and adaptive, The Sanibel School with designing
which was showcased by this and conducting grade-appropriate
year’s collaboration with the experiences to complement
Sanibel-Captiva Art League. classroom studies.
Rather than an indoor art exhibit,
the Garden Center showcased
“Natives in the Garden,” a series
of outdoor art pieces inspired by
nature that were complemented
by their botanical surroundings.

Bahama cassia and sulphurs LANDSCAPING WORKSHOP

Promotes Zero-Emission Practices

A variety of policy and advocacy-based educational programs
were presented virtually this year. Topics focused on Sanibel’s water
management policy, renewable energy, the Everglades Agricultural
Area, and Everglades restoration to give participants background
and up-to-date information about these subjects. In addition, as
COVID restrictions eased, SCCF presented an in-person sustainable
land care workshop designed for landscapers that focused on how
lawncare providers can transition to zero-emissions equipment.
Presenters included representatives from equipment manufacturers
as well as the American Green Zone Alliance, which certifies areas
where routine grounds maintenance is performed with low-impact
equipment and people-powered tools.

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 15

Events  World Sea Turtle Day Event
Linda and Nick Linsmayer offered
 Wines in the Wild: HomeINstead a generous challenge grant to
Guests enjoyed Wines in the Wild fund the ongoing research work
from “HomeINstead” this year, as of SCCF’s sea turtle program.
Tom and Linda Uhler, volunteer Attendees enjoyed an engaging
event organizers, pivoted to pull program by Coastal Wildlife
off an enjoyable experience for Director Kelly Sloan and cool
all. SCCF hosts Wines in the Wild treats donated by The Shack
every November when guests of Sanibel, which is generously
normally stroll under the stars donating 25 percent of the
among stations offering fine wine proceeds from its “sea turtle
and gourmet small plate pairings inspired” custard.
on the grounds of the historic
Bailey Homestead Preserve.

 McCarthy Lecture:
Kathryn Sullivan

During the 3rd Annual Paul
McCarthy Memorial Lecture,
insights from “the most vertical
person on Earth,” former
astronaut and National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration
Under Secretary and
Administrator Kathryn D. Sullivan,
Ph.D., sparked intrigue into the
exploration of our planet.

SAVE the DATE Virtual Annual Meeting
The SCCF Annual Meeting went
Nov. 12: Wines in the Wild virtual this year, as the Board
Nov. 13-14: SCCF Tennis Tournament of Trustees inducted three new
Dec. 7: SCCF Annual Meeting members and said thank you to
Feb. 4: Paul McCarthy Memorial Lecture outgoing Trustees.
March 19: The event formerly known as Octifest on the Beach
March 25: SCCF Volunteer Party
April 16: Beer in the Bushes, SCCF signature fundraising event

16 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Fiscal Responsibility and
Membership Support

Operating Financial Statement July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021

Operating Income 6/30/2021 Operating Expense 6/30/2021
Salary & Benefits $2,330,032
O perating Contributions General Operations
Physical Plant/Land $508,575
Annual Fund Drive (AFD) $1,141,695 Propety/Liability Insurance $175,961
Grant Expense
Major Gifts $520,101 Public Relations/Fundraising $242,545
$91,313
Education Expense
Retail Expense $222,562
Grant Income $246,209
Special Events Expense $52,596
E ducation Income Miscellaneous Expense $70,919
Memorials/Bequests Expense
Programs $5,191 $9,199
$11,867
Tuition $249,704
$-
Retail Income $164,904

Contract Services $93,886

Special Events Income $164,377

Miscellaneous Unbudgeted Income $48,849

Memorials/Bequests $309,284

Endowment Fund Support* $284,605

Program Income** $560,922

Carry forward to FY2021-2022*** $74,158

Total $3,789,728 Total $3,789,728

NOTE -

* 4.5% of the average value for the last 12 quarters.

** Designated Program Area contributions. Legacy Society

*** Designated Funds and Grant Income are carried We are grateful to all the Legacy Society
forward to the next fiscal year as project expense members who have made planned
continues. gifts and bequests to support the
SCCF endowment funds. If you have
Volunteers FY 20-21 remembered SCCF in your estate planning,
please let us know so we may thank you
Individuals Hours now for the gift you have planned to make
in the future. Because the December 2020
Administrative 4 589 Annual Membership Meeting was held
virtually, we felt we should wait to properly
Board & Committees 29 1128 recognize new Legacy Society members
Dean and Mayri Caple until we could all
Coastal Watch 35 558 be together again. The Caples will be
recognized for induction at our upcoming
Hammerheads (Carpenters) 8 2538 Annual Membership Meeting on December
7, 2021. To pursue your own induction that
Marine Lab 7 410 evening, please contact Development
Director Cheryl Giattini at 239-822-6121 or
Native Landscape & Garden Center 10 554.5 [email protected] to learn more.

Sea Turtle Conservation 77 4195 Members & Supporters
SCCF gratefully recognizes the 6,563
Shorebird Monitoring 9 317
individuals who agreed to stand and be
Special Events 15 360 counted as members and supporters during
FY2020-2021. We hope reading this annual
Terrestrial Turtle Conservation 18 261 report will motivate all our valued members
to renew their places in the SCCF family for
Trail Blazers 6 144 the coming year!

Weeds & Seeds 3 806

Wildlife & Habitat Management 4 46

FY 20-21 TOTAL 225 11,906.5

ANNUAL REPORT FY2020-2021 | 17

Donor Recognition

In the interest of devoting more annual report The entire list of much-appreciated supporters
space to coverage of the work our members can be found by following this QR code or visiting
support, we are changing the way we recognize sccf.org. All your generous gifts made it possible
our valued donors who made gifts during for SCCF to maintain cash flow,
FY2020-2021. The donors who made more balance our operating budget,
significant gifts—whether to our Annual Fund demonstrate matching funds for
Drive, Periwinkle Wetlands land campaign, or public-sector grant proposals, and
other funding appeals across all our program move forward on truly exciting and
areas—are recognized here. important initiatives.

Thanks to all the individuals, families, and businesses in the
SCCF family who have helped to support our mission
with your gifts of time, talent, and treasure!

Mark and Molly Valade Barbara and Tom Dunham Allison Havill Todd
Philip and Roberta Puschel Dehmlow Family Fund Jackie and Roy Sweeney Fund
Nancy Dehmlow
Anonymous Gretchen Banks of The Greater Cincinnati
Fred and Alice Stanback Anne Nobles and David Foundation
Johnson
Jim and Gaye Pigott Jill and Dan McCormack Jackie Sweeney
Estate of Iona Lakus Wescustogo Foundation Boler Family Foundation
Jim and Elizabeth Birmingham
Robert and Elizabeth Nanovic Mary Jo Boler
Anonymous The Haas Family
Bill and Jeanie Haas

The Vince Family Harry and Betty Taif Shipley Foundation, Inc.
Robin and Liselotte Vince Common Trust Richard and Feyza Shipley
The Hendry Family Foundation
Pfeifer Realty Group Estate of Tom Pick
Amy and Rob Parish Mary Ellen and Eric Pfeifer Sue Pick
Joan and Bill Grabe
James and Vedna Welch Leah and Doug Beck Todd and Barbara Bluedorn
Al and Sally Hanser Susan and Cliff Beittel
Foundation Bill and Ruth Brooks
Deborah La Gorce L.A.T. Foundation Middendorf Family Foundation
Blake and Jan Devitt Frank and Pat Middendorf
Strada Education Network Lee Anne Tauck AWC Family Foundation
Bruning Foundation David and Mika Filkins

18 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Barbara and William Millar Rod and Gerry Verblaauw J.S. Plank and D.M. DiCarlo Family
Cathy Linnemann Nik and Elissa Khakee Foundation, Inc.
Dana DiCarlo
Joan and Donald Sherman Sehgal Family Foundation
The Keith Campbell Foundation for the Suri and Edda Sehgal Gwendolyn McCullen Trust
Paul and Lucy Roth Mark and Larkin Hammond
Environment, Inc. John and Linda Wulff Howard and Brenda Sheridan
Mike and Cannella Mullins
Dave and Ellen Raisbeck Wimmer Brothers Realty, Inc. Ann Dempsey
Mark and Debbie Wimmer Mike and Debbie Szymanczyk
Rice Family Fund
Don and Joyce Rice National Christian Foundation Charles and Sue Turner
Wayne and Linda Boyd Scott and Amanda Dinger Robin Krivanek
Linda and Tom Uhler Bette Harig
Anonymous Jay and Cindy Brown Fran Cameron
Patricia Smith Wilmeth of the Fund Greater Chip and Nancy Roach
David and Brenda Bass Nathalie and Richard Pyle
Milwaukee Foundation Linda and Nick Linsmayer Bill Riley and Susan Forster
Steph and Kim Wilmeth Miller Stan and Connie Grayson Dennis Rupert and Karen Johnson
Sally Wilmeth and Terry Geurkink
Madison Community Foundation The Wilshire Charitable Foundation Brad and Shelli Stanback
Samuel Powers and Kelly Smith-Powers Andria and Paul Heafy Solstice Charitable Foundation
Evelyn Rose and Jonathan Silverman
Butler Family Foundation Christie Allen
Todd and Leanne Marcum Alfonso Barroso Jack McCarthy; Micheal and Maryellen
Southwest Florida Community Foundation McCarthy; Jack and Maureen Ghublikian;
Capitol Group Foundation
Dustyn Corace Doug and Sherry Gentry Cathy McCarthy
Bank Of The Islands Jeanette Mihaly
Lorraine Winpenny

Charles and Linda Adams Bill and Jo Guenzel Tom and Merni Libonate Shirley Schlossman Bill and Margie Abraham
Howell-Adams Family Pat Harig John MacLennan Peter and Chris Schluter Stephen and Ellen Baugh
James D. Harvey The Mariel Foundation Laurence Schmukler and Laura DeBruce and Jeffrey
Foundation Katherine Hauser Anne H. Magoun
Jane and Don Adams Edward and Ellinor Mancheski Foundation, Mariana Pardo Blackman
John and Nancy Ake Jodi Schwartzel Robert and Dixie Bowden
Anonymous Hayward Inc. Laura and Shawn Shaffer John and Debra Bullock
Shane Antalick Jeff Hayward and Fred and Judith Barbara Shane Doug and Robin Cook
Jane and Buzz Shepard Ralph and Billye Curtis
Photography and Madeline Etkin Mancheski Skinner Family Fund The Daley Family
Marketing The Hedden Family Mark and Julie Marinello Patrick and Kathryn Daley
Paul G. Arpin Charitable McCallion & McCallion of the Door County Mary Duchi
Trust Foundation Community Foundation, Walter and Mary Emily
Michael and Christine Jeff Hedden Real Estate Inc.
Attardo Mark and Richie Heiman Jim and Susan McCallion Twin Lakes Charitable Gross
Gregory Balestrero and Susan and George Heisler Antonette and Bruce Fund Peter Haffenreffer and
Frances Higgins Scott and Yuka Superior Title Services
Jeffrey P. Beale McDonald Kyle and Christine Mallory Marshall
Edgar and Kathryn Beyn Hendershot Douglas McLemore Szymanczyk Wade and Tracy Harrison III
Helen Bickell Gwenda Hiett-Clements Harold and Shirley Miller Breese Tomick Dorothy Lichtenstein
Gene and Lynne Blanc Robert Petty and Carol Tom and Pam Miller Susan Turner Gene and Linda Massey
Lynn and Jacqueline John and Kay Morse Uhler and Vertich Virginia McKay and Richard
Boynton Hitselberger Ronald Mycock and Lynn Financial Planners
Keith N. Browning Family Jocarno Fund Bob and Betty Van Tassel Henry
Foundation Jensen's On The Gulf Bernard William and Ann Carol McNaughton Beebe
Keith and Pamela Jensen's Twin Palm Robert Owens Vanderbilt Bruce and Evelyn Neill
Browning David and Ellen Petrick Bill and Judy Walter Network for Good
Anthony Brunsing Resort and Marina Thomas Piraino and Ed Wheeler and Anne Bob and Mary Ellen Paulson
Bill and Tory Burch Bailey's General Store Haslem James Pick and Rosalyn
Steven and Gail Burke The Johnson Family Barbara McWilliams Thomas and Carla White
Vibeke and Gustav HRK Foundation Dan and Pam Prevo Tommy and Trudy Laudati
Christensen Arthur Kaemmer John and Joleen Raho Williams Geoff and Robbie
Rick and Lisa Chubb Tiffani Kaliko and John Kay Redmond Jim and Linda Winn
Scott and Dana Crater Lamson and Sally Susan Miles Yeckel Roepstorff
Robert Debolt Silvia A Component Fund of John and Karen Ryan
Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Michael and Donna Rheinfrank the Maine Community Sargent Family Foundation
Grille Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Cynthia Sargent
Jim and Dulce Doss Kaplowitz Bill and Patty Zimmerman Linda Scherer
Hans and Leslie Fleischner Sonya Keene and John Foundation Ari Zweiman and Ashley James Schubert
Janet Frane Hiram Rogers and Jean Timmer Timothy and Judith Sear
Ted Gasteyer Moy Staritch Foundation, Inc.
Alice and Richard Godfrey Mike Kelly Gauger John and Bonnie Strand
Mason and Janie Goss John and Wendy Kindig Don and Nancy Rolley Nanelle Wehmann
Porter and Mariel Goss SEBA Foundation Peter and Peggy Sharon and Donald Welch
Shelley and Bill Greggs Steve King and Sam Wendy West
Sandy Gross and John Rosenblum Phil and Tina Weyman
Hutton Boren King Doug and Kris Ryckman
Robin Kirk Donna Salsburey HOW YOU CAN HELP
Stephanie Koven Sanibel Captiva Beach Please become a
Aimee La Gorce-Jeans member or renew your
Peter and Ann Lambertus Resorts membership by using
Lawson Family Charitable Sanibel Captiva Trust the enclosAeNdNeUnAvLeRlEoPpOeRTorFY2020-2021 | 19
donating at www.sccf.org.
Foundation Company
John and Sue Lawson Sanibel-Captiva Audubon

Society
Karen and Bill Sartoris

Memorial Donations Peppy Linden Nancy Curtin Chip and Nancy Roach
Joan Lipsig Ralph and Billye Curtis Geoff and Robbie
Ann Bair Dr. George Irwin, Jr. Shelley and Bill Greggs Richard and Barbara Holly Davies
Lanny Reddick Kathy and Carter Barger Gwenda Hiett-Clements Carolyn DeCoster Roepstorff
Sara and Stan Hoover John and Kay Morse Miller Arlene and Michael Joan and Bruce Rogers
Dr. Christina Barklley Jan and Michael Diane and Leroy Neitzel Joseph Moore Carol and Bill Rosenberg
Julianne Kirkpatrick Anne Nobles and David Linda Mui Doran Paul and Lucy Roth
Johnson Les Novitsky Lynda Dunham Sanibel Captiva Trust
Jane and Frank Bopp Patricia and Hoy Johnson Martin and Enid Packard Linda Estep
Mary and John Hartman Ryan Orgera and Alicia Dr. James B. Pick and Dr. Anita Force Marshall and Company
McConnell Inge Santos
Len Clements Robert and Mary Tighe Rosalyn M. Laudati Bob Marshall Peter and Chris Schluter
Lisa and Doug Walston Geoff and Robbie Richard and Pamela Bill and Kathy Fox John and Donna
Williams Chris and Kristin French
Gary Cole Thomas Wilson Roepstorff Schlosberg Walter and Methel Gale Schubert
Edward and Lynn Neal Linda and Tom Uhler Peggy and Jim Doug and Sherry Gentry Shirley Schulz
Karen Walker Dave Jensen Carol Gestwicki Candy Scothorn
Marc and Cheryl Giattini George Peters Swartchild June Getford Renny Severance
Dawn Coleman Rae Ann Wessel Mike and Lynn Asensio Sandra Teger Marc and Cheryl Giattini Rick and Amelia Siders
Phyllis Kilby Baker Hostetler Debra Walters Ron and Phyllis Gibson Nancy and Steve Siegel
Louise Johnson William Warshaur Phyllis Gresham Patricia Slater
Patricia Rae Crane Steve and Karena (Reynoldsburg office) Roberta Washlow Alyce and Kim Hager Lynne and Jerry Stern
Joyce Ferfecki Baker Hostetler Jeffry Wineman Mark and Larkin Diane and Bob Stocks
Janet Rupert Johnson Ms. Liz Wolf Ellen Strobel
(Columbus office) Dianne Yonkers Hammond Ty and Jan Symroski
Dick Curtin Ted Koven Patricia Conard Birk Bette Harig Maureen and Mark
Nancy Curtin Koven Foundation Deborah Boiarsky Helen Plunkett Pat Harig
Stephanie Koven Chesapeake Utilities Margaret and Brooks Charles and Marilyn Hart Tesoro
Carl and Emy Dietz Barbara Lensing and Jack Thomas
Anne Kniskern Larry and Charlotte Family Robbins Paul and Rachel Tritaik
Ruth Lewis Derrick Kowitch Suzie and Bryan Gunn Peter Herlich Mark Twombly and Susie
Louise Kowitch Deborah Kennedy- Denny Rees Kim Herres
Sally Ditton Beth and Mark Rees Gwenda Hiett-Clements Holly
Robert Ditton Arthur Mason Caranna and Charles Doug Hinshaw and Sue Linda and Tom Uhler
Stephen and Marion Hall Caranna Carol Rothman Rae Ann Wessel
Nancy Dixon Teresa Krebs Armand and Beverly Ball Roediger Michele and Valerie
Charlie Dixon Paul McCarthy Barney and Carol Lentz Dana and Bill Bennett Jeff Holck
Dan and Janet Dixon Jack McCarthy; Ray Malone Raymond Dandeneau Janie Howland Whalen and Summer
Patrick Muldowney Hope and Strati Gina, John and Johnny Michele and Valerie
The Donahower Family Micheal and Maryellen Lynda and Stephen
Linsay Meisner-Jensen McCarthy; Jack and Nacht Demertzis Jensen Whalen and Summer
Maureen Ghublikian; Terri Donlin Huesman Lee Demertzis Gini Jones Susan and Brian White
Wanda Dubbe Cathy McCarthy Scott Pearson Brenda Fodor Wally Kain Thomas and Lena
Fran Cameron Plantation Village John and Debbie Barbara Kallman
John and Lynne Steve Mihaly Edward Ptaszek Mike Kelly Williams
John and Nancy Ake George, Joe and Mary Friedlund Dan and Liz Kennedy Debbie Williamson
Comings Don and Dee Hunter Schein Birgit Miller Robin Kirk Patricia Smith Wilmeth
Jeanette Mihaly Paul Schmidt Rebecca Moss James and Vedna Welch
Betty Eertmoed Mark Senff Fund Greater
Gary Eertmoed Ron Moffat Linda and Kevine Amelia Samples Foundation Milwaukee Foundation
Russel and Helen Kirk Shaughnessy Cheryl and Jim Samples Deborah La Gorce Sally Wilmeth and Terry
Arnold Frazier Rita and Jeff Moffat Jeff and Lisa Troike Pam Leskowyak Geurkink
Susan Davenport and Michelle Acciavatti, Dean Dee Serage-Century Darla Letourneau Patricia Wilson
Donald H. Monroe Nicholas, and Tom Van Amanda Accamando Erick and Ellen Lindblad Patricia Zapf
Gary Internicola Steve Adams Hollebeke and Tom Van Tom and Mimi Adams Barbara Linstrom
Margaret Bardin Hollebeke Donna Aldrich John MacLennan Martha Siders
Dick Gause Fred and Gail Brown Gary Wadman Red and Kristie Anders Janice Manley Rick and Amelia Siders
Carol and Bill Rosenberg Dave Gibson Laura and Todd Mark Andrews Richard Mark and Ellis
Robert and Cherry Wedekind Sara and Marc Aune Stanley Smith
Shawn Giles Alec and Kathy Susan and Cliff Beittel Robinson Barbara Heady
Darlene Prendergast Monroe Wightman Karen Bell Howard and Judith
Bruce and Evelyn Neill Leigh Ann Wilson Landmark Design of Stephanie Smith
George Haines Bruce and Evelyn Neill Mayer Craig and Karen
David and Ann Packman Janet Tarbox Tom Pick Sanibel Caryn Hodes and Ed
Mary Sue Webb Judith Adler Mike Billheimer and Mary McCowen
Frank Hambrick Bill Webb Patti and Jay Bach McClure
Debbie and Eugene Janice Block Chaddock Ann Williams Dana Mehlig Shelby Steen
Sheilah Morley Blue Coyote Business Elizabeth Modys Lance and Mina Steen
Baker Donna Aldrich and Ron Chaddock Melanie Moraga
Ben Bishop Lynn and Richard and Social Club LLC John and Kay Morse Tom Stoel
Andrew M. Havill Bernice and Tom Bishop Todd and Barbara Becky Mulka Carol Stoel
Allison Havill Todd Wayne and Linda Boyd Braman Diane and Leroy Neitzel
Kenneth and Patricia Barbara and Ivan Bluedorn Jerry and Sharon Nelson Kent Tarrier
Don Herman and Jaye and Bill Boswell Amy Nowacki Jane Mason
Hartley Kleinberg Burow Burgess Kathy Boyd Robert and Nancy Orr
Suzanne Zoss Fran Cameron Nancy Clark Wayne and Linda Boyd Marjorie and Joe Dan Valentine
Gwenda Hiett-Clements Salvatore and Michelle Bill and Ruth Brooks Ada Shissler
Ulrich Herter Jenny Kraus Dick Brown Pacheco
Missy Apmann Jim and Lois Purviance Cottone Drs. Kelton and Betsy Martin and Enid Packard Kari N. Wagner
Jon and Nancy Apmann Joan Sperry Peter and Sue Danford Patricia Smith Wilmeth Gary and Nancy Wagner
Konstandina DeMerell Tom and Judy Ware Judy and Bruce Eissner Burbank
Jill Miller Bill and Tory Burch of the Fund Greater Terry Webb
John H. and Carolyn T. Tony Mulinare Lisa Marks Fisher and Kate and Elan Bush Milwaukee Foundation Bobbie Banach
Hoagland Anonymous Fran Cameron Helmut and Ilona Peters
The Mariel Foundation Holland Brad Fisher Denise and Andrew David and Ellen Petrick
Anne H. Magoun Gayle Nemeth Peter and Ginny Cindy and Kevin Pierce
Holli Laone Carnell Douglas and Susan Potts
Sidney and Colleen Foreman Wendy and Dean Cerdan Nathalie and Richard
Hughes Maria Heeke Olsen Doug and Linda Garde Karen Clarke and Pyle
Gram and Hughes Good Marc and Cheryl Giattini Marc and Cheryl Giattini Nancy Riley and Michael
Wendy and Dean Cerdan Stan and Connie Barbara Bolt Galloway
Vibes Account Arlene Dillon and Dan Coccoloba Chapter of Kathryn Ringland
Julie Gram and Honore Grayson
Wexler Eugene Halladay the Florida Native Plant
Hughes E. Franklin Hirsch Society
Caryl Lasko Barbara and Tom Cooley
George and Jackie
Cooper

20 | SCCF — SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Board of Trustees & Staff — FY2020-2021

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sandy Gross John Raho
Don Rice, President Nik Khakee Chip Roach
Deborah La Gorce, Vice President Tom Libonate Laura Shaffer
Susan Beittel, Treasurer Jill McCormack Ty Symroski
Ran Niehoff, Secretary Anne Nobles Christine Szymanczyk
Dick Pyle

STAFF NATIVE LANDSCAPES & GARDEN CENTER
Jenny Evans, Native Landscapes & Adult
ADMINISTRATIVE Education Director
Ryan Orgera, Ph.D., CEO Becca Grotrian, Garden Center Manager
Wendy Cerdan, CFO & Director of Operations Emily Harrington, Horticulturist
Cheryl Giattini, Development Director Em Hayes, Grower
Barbara Linstrom, Communications Director Sue Ramos, Customer Relations
Jeff Siwicke, Facilities & Events Manager Interns: Sriram Narasimhan, Adam Tardif,
Ashley Graham, Grants & Operations Manager Glorimar Rivera Zamorano
Karen Nelson, Communications Consultant
Doug Cook, Designer SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL
Cathy Chestnut, Editor Nicole Finnicum, Director
Justin Proctor, Special Projects Manager Shannon Stainken, Education Programs Manager
Christina Gould, Office Manger
COASTAL WILDLIFE Kealy McNeal, Conservation Initiative
Kelly Sloan, Director Coordinator & Marine Science Educator
Audrey Albrecht, Coastal Wildlife Manager/ Dana Donkle, Marine Science Educator
Shorebird Biologist Joey Garofano, Marine Science Educator
Jack Brzoza, Sea Turtle Biologist Brianna Machuga, Marine Science Educator
Andrew Glinsky, Research Associate Intern: Kim Bouwkamp
Courtney King, Sea Turtle Technician
Megan Reed, Sea Turtle Technician WILDLIFE & HABITAT MANAGEMENT
Interns: Malina Barker, Hollis Hatfield, Taylor Chris Lechowicz, Director/Herpetologist
Lawrence, Emily Skinner, Sabrina Sorace, and Victor Young, Conservation Land Steward
Aaron White Dustin Lucas, Field Technician
Mike Mills, Wildlife Technician
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY Interns: Juliana Koller and Kaity Seitz
James Evans, Director
Leah Reidenbach, Research & Policy Associate
Holly Schwartz, Policy Associate
Paul Julian, Ph.D., Hydrologic Modeler
Intern: Luke Miller

MARINE LABORATORY
Eric Milbrandt, Ph.D., Director
Richard Bartleson, Ph.D., Research Scientist
A.J. Martignette, Lab Manager
Sierra Greene, Research Assistant
Leah Reidenbach, Research Associate
Mark Thompson, Research Associate
Interns: Jivan Khakee and Joseph Young

Publication of this annual report was generously underwritten by:
“As the oldest locally owned and managed community bank in Lee County and on the
islands, Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank cares deeply about the natural beauty
we all value in Southwest Florida. Now more than ever, it is a great comfort to know SCCF
stands strong in its environmental stewardship for the place we call home. For more than
five decades, SCCF has been a leader in fighting to keep Sanibel, Captiva, and this entire
region so special. We are honored to be one of their partners in making that happen.”

Geoffrey Roepstorff
CEO, Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
P.O. Box 839, Sanibel, FL 33957 | (239) 472-2329 | www.sccf.org | [email protected]