Journal #6 Matanzas

Matanzas Pass is a preserve located in the heart of Estero Island. The 60 acre sanctuary separates San Carlos Island and Estero Island. On this field trip we wandered on trails that wind through mangroves and preserved waterfront property. These mangroves protect the area from erosion and storms, through a root system that is effective at dissipating wave surges. Matanzas is one of the few natural habitats left on the Island and is very significant to the history of Ft. Myers beach. While observing the preserve we saw a few dolphins and witnessed how many species live in this coastal habitat. While at the Estero Island Historic Cottage I was introduced to very generous women who informed us how this cabin and preserve originated. The Matanzas Pass(Wilderness)Preserve was dedicated on January 20, 1979 as a sanctuary for native plants and animals and as a learning resource for the Lee County Community. In 1974, Fort Myers Beach resident and nature photographer John Dunning, purchased the property from the Martha Redd estate and then donated 22 acres to The Nature Conservancy and offered to sell them the remaining acres (2008 Lee County Parks & Recreation). Matanzas is a great place to learn about the Ft. Myers beach area and all of the challenges the community has faced. From storms to recessions this small town has thrived and is now a major tourist “hot spot”. The views of Estero Bay are immaculate from the boardwalk area, and it is a great place to observe nature and learn from the environment. Overall, I believe my experience at Matanzas was exciting and very relaxing. This was a great place to learn about the inner coastal habitats and a little history of Estero Bay.

Bibliography
2008 Lee County Parks & Recreation (http://www.leeparks.org/)

Photo courtesy of Acaptainsblog.com