Like the conservation pioneers of 1954 who saved Corkscrew’s forest from the ax, the Corkscrew Cypress Council Members demonstrate to the community and the world how a small, committed group of people can make a lasting difference – before it is too late. 

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a unique subtropical freshwater forested wetland located in a strategically important location in our community. The wetlands recharge the local aquifers, rivers, and estuaries, providing the right conditions for fishing and coastal recreation as well as clean drinking water and water for agricultural productivity. In addition, the mosaic of forested and graminoid wetlands store floodwaters, deter saltwater intrusion and relieve drought stress, thus reducing the risk of wildfires. Corkscrew provides an important connection for wildlife and water to coastal habitat in the Estero Bay
Aquatic Preserve and Delnor-Wiggins State Park via the Estero, Imperial, and Cocohatchee rivers. It also provides connectivity to important habitat in southeast Lee County as well as the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge and the Big Cypress National Preserve. Council Members commit five-year support to sustain Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary for future generations.