Tigertail Lagoon/Sand Dollar Island

Sand Dollar Island protects Tigertail Lagoon and the city of Marco Island, Florida, a barrier island community. The island was migrating landward, squeezing the lagoon and reducing coastal protection. This project restored the sand spit, a coastal lagoon, and mangrove shorelines by reestablishing an adequate flow channel. Restoring Sand Dollar Island maintains coastal protection for the community from sea-level rise, storm surges, and erosion. This also maintains an important recreation and tourist area for activities like birding, kayaking, and fishing. This protected area provides habitat to many species of birds, sea turtles, manatees, and seagrasses.