We all know the old adage of “location, location, location”. This is particularly true for those involved in the Sanibel Island real estate industry in any way. Of course, even Sanibel Island hotels, restaurants, and other industries are well aware of the value of the location as well. What happens when the location begins to lose some of its charm or value? For instance, what if storms and human activities like road building somehow begin to degrade the natural qualities of the location?

This is exactly what occurred in the Clam Bayou area of Sanibel and why volunteers of all kinds are required to help it regain its natural and tourism value. Fortunately, the City of Sanibel, along with a host of partners that include the Nature Conservancy and the SCCF Marine Lab, have pulled together to create an excellent program of restoration.

This program is a unique way to protect your professional interests through volunteerism. Now, this isn’t a simple or casual sort of volunteerism, and there will be no envelope stuffing or community socializing involved. Instead, you will be asked to help with reef building efforts that might include the installation of oyster shell bags, the planting of red mangroves and various sea grasses, and other generally labor-intensive efforts.

When done the area will be returned to its status as a living reef that provides nursery habitat for fish, shrimp, and crab. It will also begin to attract the birds, mammals, and other creatures that bring visitors to the region. Consider the significance of a healthy population of manatees, wood storks, and other endangered species to the entire area. Consider the value such noble creatures have for your business interests in Sanibel. The Community Based Oyster Restoration led by the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation is an ongoing initiative that everyone interested in tourism and real estate should support.