
STATE INSURANCE CARES-Friends of Lovers Key - A Conservation Success Story
Florida's second most visited state park holds a remarkable story of conservation triumph that nearly wasn't. Lovers Key, now a pristine coastal sanctuary, once faced imminent development into a canal-lined McMansion community in the late 1970s. Today, this environmental treasure stands preserved through the tireless efforts of an all-volunteer organization working to protect its unique ecosystems.
Jim Remis, President and Chair of Friends of Lovers Key (FOLK), reveals the inner workings of this citizen support organization that partners directly with state park rangers to maintain and enhance this beloved natural space. While many visitors come solely for the gorgeous beaches, FOLK's mission extends far beyond sand management to comprehensive environmental stewardship. Their work has become especially critical during what Remus describes as "a master class in hurricane recovery" following multiple storms including Hurricane Ian.
The park's remarkable resilience shines through in stories of sea turtle nesting success, with widened beaches providing safer hatching grounds and dedicated volunteers adopting nests. Meanwhile, the Welcome and Discovery Center – built to withstand Category 4 hurricanes – continues operating despite infrastructure challenges. Popular summer camps have returned, introducing a new generation to environmental stewardship across the park's four distinct ecological zones. FOLK's annual gala consistently sells out months in advance, demonstrating the community's passionate support for this conservation success story.
Discover how you can join this vital preservation effort through volunteering, membership, or simply visiting to experience one of Florida's last unspoiled coastal treasures. With no paid staff and complete reliance on community support, Friends of Lovers Key exemplifies grassroots conservation at its finest – ensuring this paradise remains protected for generations to come rather than becoming another development casualty along Florida's coast.
Friends of Lovers Key
Jim Remis -President
8700 Estero Blvd Ft Myers Beach, FL, 33931
contactus@friendsofloverskey.org
Ft Myers Beach-Good Neighbor
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