Restoration progressing at Puschel Preserve
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that restoration efforts are quickly progressing at the Puschel Preserve on Sanibel. As of July 11, the last of the exotic trees such as Australian pine, javaplum and seaside mahoe had been removed or left in place for cavity-nesting birds.
“Contractors have cleaned up any construction and demolition debris from the hurricane on the site and have removed a good percentage of organic debris from the parcel to allow replanting, while leaving enough for wildlife to shelter,” Wildlife and Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said.
A shipment of large cabbage palms was delivered and planted to begin the process of revegetating the preserve. Contractors placed them around water features and the planned trail system, as well as other areas. More plants will arrive soon to begin the fill in other areas, but not make it too dense.
RESTORATION OF CRITICAL HABITATS
The SCCF reported that there are several wetlands on the north side that will be planted with cordgrass, as well as other wetland plants, to re-establish a slice of the iconic open grassland habitat that once dominated Sanibel.
“This open landscape will attract many forms of wildlife from invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals,” he said, adding that the real task will be to keep the native buttonwood from overtaking the open areas over the years.
Upon approaching the Sanibel River, the south part of the preserve gets lower in elevation and should be dominated by buttonwoods, as it was the natural habitat for the water-loving species.
A circular public trail off the city’s Shared Use Path will only traverse the northern section of the property, where there will be a pollinator garden and scenic overlook onto wetland and sculpture gardens. Plantings will occur throughout the wet months to maximize water from rainfall.
The preserve is expected to open to the public by the end of the year.