Eco-friendly Activities in the Greater Fort Myers Area
Working toward a more environmentally sustainable world requires a collective effort, and here in Fort Myers we’ve been doing that for a long time. Take a look at some of the ways locals have been helping protect our wildlife and habitats and see how you can help make a difference during your stay.
Spring marks the beginning of sea turtle nesting season, and it truly takes a village to protect these vulnerable creatures. Light pollution can disorient turtles and put their survival at risk, so between May 1 and Oct. 31 you should be careful to eliminate unnecessary flashlights, phone lights or beach-facing lights. Before you leave the beach, you should remove any obstructions — including beach furniture and cabanas — and fill in any holes in the sand. Click here to learn more about sea turtle conservation organizations including Turtle Time on Fort Myers Beach and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation on Sanibel Island.
We’re dedicated to protecting the manatee population in and around Fort Myers, and everyone has an important role to play. Conservation groups such as the Save the Manatees Club and Friends of Lee County Manatee Group have several tips on how to protect the manatees, including keeping your distance while boating, shutting off the motor when you spot manatees in the water, cleaning up your marine debris and avoiding feeding these wild creatures.
The nonprofit organization ECHO combats hunger with innovative agricultural solutions. Get a firsthand glimpse into their work on a guided farm tour, or join hands-on classes on how to create your own edible garden, cook with tropical produce and brew kombucha from scratch.
Plan your trip to coincide with a volunteer activity that helps the natural environment. From coastal cleanups to tree-planting events and more, there are a number of opportunities to help. Just a few of the organizations that have ongoing volunteer opportunities include the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Keep Lee County Beautiful and Coastal Watch.
Throughout the year, the folks at CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) lead educational tours to share insights into their work. Go on a guided wildlife walk and examine displays at the Visitor Education Center to learn more about the birds, reptiles and other critters that have been rescued and rehabilitated in Southwest Florida.
Go behind the scenes at CROW and watch a trio of river otters cooling down as the day heats up.
