Marco Island
C-HAWQ Initiative
Where are these islands?
The island locations proposed are in waterways that are unnavigable, shallow, or are areas of highest need to improve water quality.
The exact locations are not yet finalized. More information will be shared here as project details are confirmed.
What will these islands look like?
The new islands are inspired by the current mangrove islands surrounding Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands today. Islands will be shaped to fit any existing sand bars or natural structures. Where islands do not exist today, islands will be intentionally designed for unnavigable areas or areas with poor water quality.
Vegetation planted on the islands will be entirely native species and grown in the local area. Oyster reefs provide further structure and will be sustainably sourced locally where possible.
What types of plants will be used?
Mangroves
Black, white, and red mangroves will be used to provide structure, resilience, and habitat for the islands and local species. Mangrove roots cannot grow with structure so the islands will provide containment to the tress growth size.
Oyster Reefs
Oyster reefs provide habitat for filter feeders and macro-invertebrates like oysters or shrimp. These small creatures help filter the water of particulates which improves the water quality.
Seagrasses
Grasses such as smooth cordgrass and black needlegrass rush will create shallow emergent salt marsh areas. This will also help improve the resiliency of the oyster reefs and newly restored habitats.
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On Sept. 23, Marco Island City Council showed broad support for a potential unsolicited public-private partnership following a presentation by Dan Davies, the owner of Earthwerks and a part-time Marco Island resident.
City Council Meeting 9/24/2024 Video
A full proposal is expected to come before Marco Island City Council at a future date.
Project Status
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