Rediscovering the Real Florida at River Oaks Preserve

Tucked away in the heart of Estero lies a remarkable project dedicated to preserving the real Florida. River Oaks Preserve, a 10-acre parcel purchased by the Village of Estero in May 2022, was intentionally saved from development to remain wild and natural. Managed by the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, this living landscape is being carefully restored to provide a sanctuary for both wildlife and people.

A Living Classroom in Action

On a recent morning, Florida Gulf Coast University students arrived at River Oaks Preserve to earn their Service-Learning hours. After being welcomed by volunteers, the students rolled up their sleeves and got to work. The ground, still damp from a soaking rain, was perfect for planting native species. They began by pulling invasive weeds, observed a planting demonstration, and then set native plants like spider lilies, spartina, pond cypress, mulberry, swamp dogwood, blue-eyed grass, and purple lovegrass into the soil.

Hands-on experiences like these are at the heart of the Preserve’s mission—connecting the next generation with Florida’s natural heritage while advancing the restoration of native habitats.

Restoring and Preserving the Land

Since its purchase, the Coccoloba Chapter has taken major steps to restore and protect this land, including:

• Removing invasive and exotic plants.
• Establishing electrical service and a solar-powered irrigation system.
• Setting up retail and propagation nurseries to expand native planting options.
• Launching a long-term planting program to restore natural habitats.
• Mapping gopher tortoise burrows.
• Securing nearly $27,000 in USDA funding to support the work.

This progress would not have been possible without the dedication of 157 volunteers, including 97 FGCU students. Together, they’ve logged an impressive 6,200 hours of volunteer service in just sixteen months.

Why It Matters

Every acre of Florida that gets paved over means the loss of crucial wildlife habitat. Too often, developments introduce non-native landscaping that fails to support pollinators, birds, rabbits, and other native wildlife. River Oaks Preserve serves as a reminder of what’s at stake—and what can be saved.

Natural areas like this aren’t just for animals; they are vital for people too. Studies show that spending time in nature improves cognition, mental health, and even boosts empathy and cooperation. Simply put, everyone benefits from preserving natural Florida.

What You Can Do

You don’t have to be a student or a scientist to make a difference. Start in your own backyard:

• Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers that support pollinators and wildlife.
• Encourage your HOA to dedicate space for natural landscaping.
• Visit the native plant nursery at River Oaks Preserve. Volunteers are eager to provide free landscaping advice and help you choose the right plants for your vision.

Looking Ahead

River Oaks Preserve is still in its early stages, but its potential is extraordinary. Already home to gopher tortoises, rabbits, squirrels, and even a bobcat, the Preserve will only grow more vibrant as demonstration gardens mature. Visitors will one day walk through trails alive with the fragrance of fiddlewood, sweet acacia, Simpson stoppers, and the brilliant blooms of scarlet hibiscus and Jamaica caper trees.

The long-term master plan envisions small buildings to replace storage containers, creating space for classrooms, educational programs, and community gatherings. Imagine teaching a workshop, hosting a youth field trip, or volunteering alongside neighbors—all surrounded by Florida’s native beauty.

A Community Treasure

Thanks to the leadership of the Village of Estero and the tireless work of the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, River Oaks Preserve is more than just land—it’s a priceless community resource. It preserves the best of our natural heritage while offering opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with the wild Florida that still remains.

River Oaks Preserve is located at 9541 Broadway Ave E, Estero, FL. It is open to the public on Sundays and Tuesdays from 9 AM to 1 PM, or by appointment.

To learn more, visit www.FNPSCoccoloba.org.