The FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plan to restore a shorebird nesting site at the lab. FWC has already committed $28K to the project. Why is this important? Because nesting habitat for shorebirds has disappeared along much of the northern Gulf coast due in large part to habitat destruction and degradation, leading to shorebirds abandoning these historic sites.

We will target state-threatened least terns and black skimmers, both of which require open, sandy areas free from disturbance and predators.  Restoration includes removing undesired vegetation and installing suitable nesting substrate underlain with geotextile material to impede vegetation growth. Oyster shell hash-sand material will cover limestone aggregate that will help stabilize the site and provide storm protection. Restoration and enhancement of this site creates marvelous opportunities for community engagement and student research on habitat conservation, restoration and enhancement techniques at the FSUCML’s new outdoor classroom.