Land Conservancy
HISTORY
In 1998, GICIA leaders recognized there was a significant amount of vacant island property. Left unprotected, it would only be a matter of time before these properties would be developed resulting in the loss of critical native bird and animal habitat. So, with the support of generous GICIA members, the Land Conservancy was established. Through this program, the GICIA has successfully acquired almost 250 acres of property and pristine grass flats, which will continue to provide necessary wildlife habitat while decreasing the island’s build out density.
When combined, the almost 250 acres of land conservancy property and 35 acres of bike path property total nearly 290 acres of land on and around Gasparilla Island that is owned, maintained and protected by GICIA. The visual impact of these properties create a natural green belt that stretches many miles and are critical to preserving the natural beauty of Boca Grande. This is yet another example of how your GICIA membership and annual support enhances the quality of life on our special island.
LAND CONSERVANCY
1. The Preserve at Mercabo – 30 acres of property located at the northern edge of the Boca Grande Causeway.
2. Tract “A” a 35 acre parcel that provides much needed bird and wildlife habitat.
3. “The Ed Mund and Jinny Pratt Hardwood Hammock” was restored with over 5,500 native plants.
4. Loomis Key is an island fringed with mature mangrove forest.
5. Tract “B” is a 15.8 acre parcel which is visible from Gasparilla Road and the GICIA Bike Path. Facing Gasparilla Sound it features a lovely, winding, walking path.
6. Tract “C” is a 6.2 acre parcel that has been restored.
7. Nearly 89 acres of Grass Flats provide habitat for fish, manatees and turtles.
8. Hoagen Key is a 38 acre island just north of Boca Grande Isles.
9. Sam Murphy Park is located at 350 Park Avenue. It is a restful green oasis in the busy downtown area.
10. The “Peninsula” parcel is located at the entrance to the Bayou.
11. The GICIA Bike Path totals nearly 35 acres, runs from 1st Street to the north and is a 5 mile green gateway to Boca Grande.
