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27.6469° N, 82.7314° W — SHELL KEY PRESERVE

Protecting public access to Southwest Florida's waterways

A nonprofit dedicated to preserving public paddling, boating, and coastal access to Shell Key Preserve and the other Southwest Florida waterways we all share — through education, research, and advocacy.

Kayaking SW Florida's waterways in calm smooth waters
Shoreline of Shell Key nature preserve

OUR MISSION

Committed to charitable public-interest legal, educational, and advocacy efforts

Southwest Florida Eco-tourism Alliance is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. We protect and preserve public access to Southwest Florida waterways, including Shell Key Preserve. We promote safe, responsible, environmentally respectful paddling, boating, and coastal recreation for everyone.

WHAT WE DO

Three ways we work to keep these waters open to everyone

Paddling past the mangroves of Shell Kay nature preserve

Protect Access

Safeguarding public paddling, boating, and coastal access to Shell Key Preserve and regional waterways.

Shoreline of SW Florida waterways

Educate

Informing paddlers, boaters, residents, policymakers, and agencies about lawful, responsible access.

The sun sets over the Shell Key nature preserve

Advocate

Supporting public-interest legal and advocacy efforts that protect public trust access to Florida's waters.

WHY IT MATTERS

These waters belong to the public — but access isn't guaranteed

As government policy and competing interests grow, the right to paddle, boat, and enjoy the shorelines of Southwest Florida needs active protection. We believe informed communities and transparent government decision-making are the best tools for keeping these waters open and healthy for generations to come. Our focus is to lessen the burdens of government by providing education, public awareness, and policy analysis concerning lawful public access, recreational safety, responsible stewardship, and transparent government decision-making affecting public waterways.

GET INVOLVED

We'd like to hear from you

Reach out to us for more information or to learn how you can participate in our public advocacy initiatives and community programs.

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