About the Friends of Matanzas Pass Preserve
Matanzas Pass Preserve is an independent Preserve where all work activities are under the supervision of a designated Lee County Land Steward. The Friends of Matanzas Pass Preserve (the "Friends") has been granted a tax exemption under the provisions of Section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Friends are dedicated to the preservation, protection and enhancement of the natural and fragile beauty of the Preserve to create a legacy for future generations. Click here
to download a copy of a brochure on the Preserve. We have a Board of Directors elected annually by the membership.
As a Citizens Support Organization (CS0), the Friends work with the Lee County
Parks and Recreation Department:
* To provide volunteers to assist in mitigation and restoration activities;
* To conduct interpretative walks in the Preserve;
* To engage in public speaking on matters regarding the Preserve;
* To promote the planting of native plants and trees on Estero Island;
* To pursue fund raising to support the Friends' mission.
For detailed information on Matanzas Pass Preserve, please refer to the Lee County Land Management Plan. https://www.leegov.com/parks/Documents/Conservation%202020/Land%20Stewardship%20Plans/MPP.pdf
Members of the Friends removing exotic plants
Guided tours
Education in the Preserve
What We Do
Members of the Friends support a number of activities that further the preservation, protection and enhancement of the Preserve. For example, such projects include removing exotic vegetation, planting suitable native trees and plants, and repairing boardwalks and trails while participating in regular workdays. The Friends also have a strong educational mission that is implemented through a number of programs including:
* guided nature tours:
* instruction to college and secondary students on the Preserve's unique ecosystem;
* innovative Earth Education program for elementary students;
* providing speakers to local organizations;
* participating in events like Visions of the Past;
* publishing a regular newsletter, The Mangrove, as well as native plant articles. View plant ID articles
here. (back issues can be viewed by clicking in the table below.)
* carry out fundraising activities.
Application forms to become a member of the Friends are available by clicking this link: Membership Application
Board of Directors
Friends of Matanzas Pass Preserve Board of Directors 2023
Gini Smith - President
Betty Simpson – Vice President
Vicki Little - Secretary
Terry Cain – Treasurer
Randa Veach - Director
Mary Rose Spalletta - Director
Lee County Parks and Recreation Liaison Personnel
Greg Kosik – Land Steward
Christine Bailey – Site Manager
Tom Barnes – Site Supervisor
