Mudflats, Mangroves, and Declining Wildlife

Erosion is a major concern in coastal communities. Finding ways to reduce impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes is on the minds of many individuals. As water levels rise and time is limited, finding the most effective techniques to not disturb natural processes is vital. Sand bars shift, change shape, and disappear. Naturally, they evolve over years and are also impacted by nearby projects of sand being put on local beaches. Sands on South Beach frequently erode and form sand bars by Caxambas and Dickmans Island. Beaches connected to land can majorly benefit from native plants that have adapted to tolerate inundation of salt water and sand. These plants can still allow for pathways to the beach while enhancing the beauty and stability of the waterfront. Mangroves are the number one defense to inland areas. Protecting and restoring mangroves helps protect natural areas and homes. Mudflats and seagrasses are next in line as they dissipate waves and trap sediment.

Dredging out mudflats and seagrasses takes away the natural barriers and kills nearby mangroves. Sand Dollar Critical Wildlife Area has become completely unstable after Hideaway’s dredge project took over. This unstable system creates a constant money flow to the project to continually dig and pile up sand at least twice a year. Sand is not protecting inland areas. It quickly erodes and clogs the lagoon and nearby homes during storms. This repetitive activity is damaging the ecosystem and negatively impacting water quality. Year-round surveys have shown massive declines in bird species both during migration and nesting. We are increasing our water quality samples and deceased bird samples to test for toxins.

Without providing any time for the natural area to restore itself, mangroves, mudflats, and seagrasses will never restore to their full ability to provide protection. Marco Island was lucky in the 2025 hurricane season. Going forward, there needs to be a balance in urban areas, finding coexistence and using proper restoration techniques to prevent erosion for as long as possible. Nature knows best and once altered too much, it is harder to return to what it once provided to us all.