“Our mission is to preserve the natural habitat of the Bocilla Islands Chain while fostering community engagement and environmental education to ensure a balanced coexistence between the ecosystem and local residents.”

Our Purpose

We are Bocilla Islands Conservancy Inc., a public nonprofit, nonpolitical organization working in partnership with the residents of the Bocilla Islands chain: Don Pedro Island, Knight Island, Little Gasparilla Island, and Thornton Key.

Our mission is to preserve the natural habitat of the Bocilla Islands Chain while fostering community engagement and environmental education to ensure a balanced coexistence between the ecosystem and local residents.

The Conservancy can customize conservation easements through land acquisition, ensuring sensitive habitats are preserved and protected to maintain the ecological balance of the islands.

At Bocilla Islands Conservancy Inc., we have the ability to customize how property becomes a conservation easement through the acquisition of land and conservation easements. This ensures that sensitive habitats will be preserved and protected, helping to maintain the balance of the island’s ecosystem.

We are proud to manage several properties on the island, acquired through generous donations, including two beautiful parks: the Aquatic and Marine Life Park and the Eco Educational Island Conservancy Park.

Marine and Pollinator Park – Also known as Driftwood Park
Located at 181 Bocilla Dr., the Marine and Pollinator Park serves as a focal point for marine conservation and education. This park features mini reef habitats designed to enhance local marine ecosystems. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the park and learn about the significance of marine life and the role of artificial habitats in promoting ocean health.
Watch this short video to learn how the property was acquired, the conservation initiatives underway, and the supporters who helped make it possible.

Eco Educational Island Conservancy Park – Also known as the Gnome Garden
Situated at 160 Gasparilla Way, the Eco Educational Island Conservancy Park is designed to be a peaceful retreat for families and individuals of all ages. This park offers a serene setting to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, featuring whimsical gnomes and informative exhibits that celebrate local flora and fauna. Visitors can embark on a delightful adventure as they search for the gnomes and learn about the various trees and plant species on display.
Learn about the history of this park.

We also regularly host events at the Eco Educational Island Conservancy Park, which are listed on our calendar. These activities engage the community and encourage appreciation for our beautiful environment. Together, these parks exemplify our commitment to conservation, education, and fostering a love for nature within our community.

As a group of passionate volunteers, we strive to engage the community through numerous programs aimed at educating and involving residents in conservation efforts. Our Living Lecture Series covers important topics such as protecting sea turtles, saving seagrass, and safeguarding shorebirds. Additionally, we host hands-on programs, such as our Clean Islands initiative, which organizes island-wide cleanups, and our Mini Reef Habitat Program, designed to enhance local marine environments.

Together, we are committed to fostering a vibrant community dedicated to protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of the Bocilla Islands for current and future generations.

Our History

The Bocilla Islands Conservancy has a rich history rooted in the community’s dedication to preserving the unique and delicate ecosystem of the Bocilla Islands chain. In 2015, long-time residents gathered to discuss how to protect the unique environment of the islands, which are characterized by sandy roads, golf carts, vibrant wildlife, and a diverse array of unique flora and fauna. The surrounding protected aquatic preserves play a critical role in maintaining the ecological integrity of the area, and residents recognized the importance of safeguarding these vital habitats for future generations.

An informal gathering among community members sparked the initial discussions that led to the formation of the organization originally named GO-PHER Green. In 2016, this effort was formalized when the organization was designated a public nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity. Little did they know how resonant this conservation mission would be among other islanders. Within just a year, the first conservation easement on private property was donated in 2017, marking a significant milestone for the organization.

Recognizing the need to better reflect their environmental goals, the name was changed to Bocilla Islands Conservancy Inc. The creation of a dedicated website marked another milestone, alongside the introduction of educational environmental programs designed to foster awareness and stewardship within the community. As the organization grew, its mission expanded to include wildlife preservation efforts, focusing on the protection of gopher tortoises, sea turtles, and injured birds.

One notable component of our work involves assisting residents who are building new homes on the island with the relocation of gopher tortoises at no cost. It is crucial for homeowners seeking construction permits to have their properties assessed for the presence of protected species, such as gopher tortoises. To facilitate this process, we trained a specialist within our organization, empowering us to provide this essential service. By doing so, we help expedite the permitting process while significantly reducing costs—eliminating the need to hire an outside, certified professional.

Additionally, we conduct multiple demonstrations promoting native Florida-friendly vegetation and trees while assisting residents in identifying and removing invasive plant species.

Community engagement remains at the heart of our conservancy, evidenced by our island cleanups, which we organize in partnership with local businesses and government agencies. These endeavors not only address environmental challenges but also foster a spirit of collaboration and unity among island residents.

As we reflect on our history, we are immensely proud of what we have achieved as a collective effort. We are grateful for the vision and commitment of our volunteers, past and present, who have dedicated their time and talents to our nonprofit. Together, we continue to grow our environmental initiatives, ensuring a sustainable future for the Bocilla Islands and the generations that will follow.

Close up of a Great Blue Heron Taking Off From a White Sand Florida Beach

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Bocilla Islands Conservancy Overview
Bocilla Islands Conservancy is a public, nonprofit, non-political organization working in partnership with the residents of the Bocilla Islands chain, including Don Pedro Island, Knight Island, Little Gasparilla Island, and Thornton Key. Our mission is to preserve the natural habitat of the Bocilla Islands Chain while fostering community engagement and environmental education to ensure a balanced coexistence between the ecosystem and local residents. The Conservancy can customize conservation easements through land acquisition, ensuring sensitive habitats are preserved and protected to maintain the ecological balance of the islands.

Disclaimer:
The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and reflects the views and opinions of Bocilla Islands Conservancy members. It is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. Bocilla Islands Conservancy assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or the accuracy of the information provided. Visitors are encouraged to consult qualified professionals regarding any concerns or decisions. By using this site, you agree that Bocilla Islands Conservancy and its contributors shall not be held liable for any actions taken based on the information presented here.