Preserving the Pristine Beauty of Fort Pierce Shores
Preserving the Pristine Beauty of Fort Pierce Shores
At Spunky's Surf Shop, we cherish the natural beauty of our local beaches and the vibrant ecosystems they support. Fort Pierce Shores, located on the southern tip of North Hutchinson Island, is a prime example of such a coastal treasure. This area boasts unspoiled beaches, diverse wildlife, and lush vegetation, making it a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Threat of Overdevelopment
Unfortunately, this idyllic shoreline faces the looming threat of overdevelopment. Developers are proposing projects that encroach upon the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), aiming to utilize public right-of-ways for private gain. Such developments not only jeopardize public access but also threaten the delicate coastal ecosystem that makes Fort Pierce Shores unique.
Environmental Significance
The beaches of Fort Pierce Shores are more than just picturesque; they are vital habitats for several protected species. Three of Florida's sea turtle species—Loggerhead, Green, and Leatherback—nest along these shores. Additionally, the area is home to the Gopher tortoise, a keystone species whose burrows provide shelter for over 150 other species. The preservation of sea oats and sea grapes, protected under Florida law, is crucial as they play a significant role in stabilizing the coastline and supporting local wildlife.
Community Efforts to Preserve the Shoreline
Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc. (FPSP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding this coastal gem from overdevelopment. Their mission is to maintain the natural state of the beach, ensuring that both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy its unspoiled beauty. FPSP is actively working to guarantee public access to the beaches in St. Lucie County by seeking a Judicial Declaration to affirm the public's right to use the dry sand beach, as provided for in Florida Statute 163.035.
How You Can Help
As members of the surfing community, we have a vested interest in preserving the natural landscapes that provide us with endless enjoyment. Here are ways you can contribute:
Share Your Beach Memories: FPSP is collecting statements and photos that demonstrate the public's long-standing use of these beaches. Your personal stories and historical photos can serve as powerful evidence in the fight against overdevelopment. Submit your contributions to fortpierceshorespreservation@gmail.com.
Support FPSP: Consider donating to Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc. Your contributions will aid in covering legal fees and other expenses necessary to protect our beaches. Please note that donations are not tax-deductible. Donations by check can be made to:
Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc.
2301 Okeechobee Rd. #15
Ft. Pierce, FL 34950
Stay Informed and Engaged: Join FPSP's mailing list to receive updates on developments and opportunities to get involved. Email fortpierceshorespreservation@gmail.com to be added to the list.
The preservation of Fort Pierce Shores is not just about protecting a beach; it's about maintaining a way of life and an environment that supports diverse wildlife and offers natural beauty for all to enjoy. At Spunky's Surf Shop, we stand with FPSP in their mission to protect our cherished coastline. Let's work together to ensure that Fort Pierce Shores remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.
For more information, visit the Fort Pierce Shores Preservation website
At Spunky's Surf Shop, we cherish the natural beauty of our local beaches and the vibrant ecosystems they support. Fort Pierce Shores, located on the southern tip of North Hutchinson Island, is a prime example of such a coastal treasure. This area boasts unspoiled beaches, diverse wildlife, and lush vegetation, making it a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Threat of Overdevelopment
Unfortunately, this idyllic shoreline faces the looming threat of overdevelopment. Developers are proposing projects that encroach upon the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), aiming to utilize public right-of-ways for private gain. Such developments not only jeopardize public access but also threaten the delicate coastal ecosystem that makes Fort Pierce Shores unique.
Environmental Significance
The beaches of Fort Pierce Shores are more than just picturesque; they are vital habitats for several protected species. Three of Florida's sea turtle species—Loggerhead, Green, and Leatherback—nest along these shores. Additionally, the area is home to the Gopher tortoise, a keystone species whose burrows provide shelter for over 150 other species. The preservation of sea oats and sea grapes, protected under Florida law, is crucial as they play a significant role in stabilizing the coastline and supporting local wildlife.
Community Efforts to Preserve the Shoreline
Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc. (FPSP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding this coastal gem from overdevelopment. Their mission is to maintain the natural state of the beach, ensuring that both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy its unspoiled beauty. FPSP is actively working to guarantee public access to the beaches in St. Lucie County by seeking a Judicial Declaration to affirm the public's right to use the dry sand beach, as provided for in Florida Statute 163.035.
How You Can Help
As members of the surfing community, we have a vested interest in preserving the natural landscapes that provide us with endless enjoyment. Here are ways you can contribute:
Share Your Beach Memories: FPSP is collecting statements and photos that demonstrate the public's long-standing use of these beaches. Your personal stories and historical photos can serve as powerful evidence in the fight against overdevelopment. Submit your contributions to fortpierceshorespreservation@gmail.com.
Support FPSP: Consider donating to Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc. Your contributions will aid in covering legal fees and other expenses necessary to protect our beaches. Please note that donations are not tax-deductible. Donations by check can be made to:
Fort Pierce Shores Preservation, Inc.
2301 Okeechobee Rd. #15
Ft. Pierce, FL 34950
Stay Informed and Engaged: Join FPSP's mailing list to receive updates on developments and opportunities to get involved. Email fortpierceshorespreservation@gmail.com to be added to the list.
The preservation of Fort Pierce Shores is not just about protecting a beach; it's about maintaining a way of life and an environment that supports diverse wildlife and offers natural beauty for all to enjoy. At Spunky's Surf Shop, we stand with FPSP in their mission to protect our cherished coastline. Let's work together to ensure that Fort Pierce Shores remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.
For more information, visit the Fort Pierce Shores Preservation website