FISH ISLAND

In 2019, a new application threatened Fish Island in St. Johns County with rezoning for development. The applicant initially claimed that a Bald Eagle nest on the island was inactive. Local EagleWatch and St. Johns County Audubon volunteers presented photos and data showing the nest was active. The misinformation about the eagle nest presented by the developer led to a second Zoning Board meeting. Audubon partners Matanzas Riverkeeper and Save Fish Island turned out a vocal opposition to the application, which was denied by the Zoning Board 6-0. Fortunately, the Fish Island landowner began negotiating with the North Florida Land Trust, and both parties reached an agreement to preserve Fish Island. Purchased through the statewide Florida Forever program, the land will eventually become a public park. (Audubon Florida Article)

Over 20 members of the SJCA participated in the January 11, 2020 cleanup of Fish Island.  The City of St. Augustine has asked us to send birders out periodically to help build a data based of birds visitors should expect to see.  We will begin developing an eBird record in the next couple of week to help our members get started on this new phase of our efforts with respect to Fish Island.  Stay tuned for details!