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.

A group of people are picking plants in a field.

Members of the Friends removing exotic plants

A group of people are standing in the woods looking at trees.

Guided tours

A group of people are standing in the woods talking to each other.

Education in the Preserve

A group of people are sitting around a table playing blackjack.

Casino Night

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 bi-weekly 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 quarterly newsletter, The Mangrove (back issues can be viewed by clicking in the table below.)
* Carry out fundraising activities like the Casino Night to better provide activities in the Preserve.


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
Drew Ogden - Director
Randa Veach - Director
Fran Myers - Director
Julie Hull - Director
Shannon Smith-Pineiro - Director
Ann Alsop - Emeritus

Lee County Parks and Recreation Liaison Personnel
Greg Bauer – Land Steward
Christine Bailey – Site Manager
Tom Barnes – Site Supervisor