<strong>From staff reports</strong>

Recently, a combination of high winds, storms, and king tides caused a significant breach in one of Harbor Island’s rookery lagoons. If neglected, the impact of this breach will be devastating for a substantial portion of wildlife on Harbor Island.

Over time, the influx of saltwater will transform the lagoon into a saltwater tidal basin, causing a portion of the island’s bird population, both seasonal and permanent, to leave for new nesting areas.

The process of repairing this breach needs to be completed in the near future.

Concerned residents are asking for donations in an effort to meet a fundraising goal of $9,000. These donations will assist in reducing repair costs and also ensure that both permanent and seasonal birds continue to call Harbor Island home.

Donations will be used to help pay local contractors to remove debris (fallen trees, limbs and other obstructions), repair the breach, fortify the lagoon and help pay labor costs.

The rookery is one of four on Harbor Island with freshwater lagoons that provide permanent and seasonal homes to numerous types of egrets, herons, ibises, and other bird species. In addition to birds, turtles and alligators are also regular visitors to these rookeries.

The Go Fund Me campaign can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/harbor-island-rookery-restoration-project.