Australian Pine Replacement:

As a function of preserving native habitat on Shell Key, the original Management Plan required all non-native vegetation to be eradicated. This requirement meant the removal of the "Australian" pine forest on the south end of the island.

In an effort to accommodate the desires of Shell Key visitors - and to stem the possibility of increased erosion, the county has successfully planted many dozens of native trees. We are grateful to county personnel and volunteers for their efforts to replant the island with these native species.

More tree images here...

October 2008 images here ...