Photo © George Blakely

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Become a Good Steward

County officials and local residents have gone through great lengths to protect this beautiful and important resource. Property owners adjacent to the allée can play an important role in the continued health of these trees. By allowing leaves to decompose around the base of the trees, the tree creates its own organic mulch. This serves as a ground cover and protects the trees’ roots during extreme weather shifts. Also, by allowing the aerial roots to extend to the ground, the trees develop stronger support for their extensive canopies.

Bring Attention to the Trees

Residents can encourage Lee County or the State of Florida to pursue designation for either the trees’ scenic or historic value. In designating the trees, Lee County would be able to pursue more sources of funding for maintenance. Such attention to the trees would raise awareness of the history of Gasparilla Island.