‘Ding’ Darling Refuge Prepares to Remove Dead Vegetation

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, with the support of “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society (DDWS) and its donors, is preparing now to remove and mulch most of what’s left of the trees flooded by Hurricane Ian along Legion Curve on Sanibel-Captiva Road and the refuge Botanical Site. The work requires a special machine rental and dry conditions, so the refuge is coordinating it to happen sometime in the April-May time frame.

“In order to do this work in a sensitive manner, it takes specialized equipment that many contractors don’t have,” said Refuge Manager Kevin Godsea. “We have come up with a better plan that we think will satisfy our habitat management goals and eliminate unsightly dead vegetation along Sanibel-Captiva Road.”

“We are happy to help move this habitat conservation measure forward,” said Ann-Marie Wildman, DDWS executive director. “This is such an important project that will meet the refuge mission to conserve Sanibel Island. Now more than ever, we need your help to accomplish this. Make a difference!”

Contact Wildman at wildman@dingdarlingsociety.org or 239-789-8991 to donate to this cause.

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