The Key Largo Angler’s Club faced the challenge of ensuring unobstructed views and access to the water along its shoreline consistent with its historic character. Mangrove growth, while ecologically beneficial, had begun to encroach on these areas, necessitating a trimming plan that balanced ecological preservation with the club’s practical needs. WGI was tasked with assisting the Key Largo Angler’s Club in securing authorization from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to trim the mangroves along the shoreline. Mangrove ecosystems are vital for coastal protection, biodiversity, and the overall health of marine environments. In Florida, these ecosystems are protected under the 1996 Mangrove Trimming and Protection Act to ensure their preservation and sustainability. To achieve this balance of maintaining aesthetics without compromising the ecological integrity of the mangroves, WGI’s arborists and environmental scientists meticulously prepared a mangrove management plan with detailed trimming plans designed to fall within the FDEP’s exemption criteria. Through diligent preparation and innovative planning, WGI successfully obtained the necessary exemption verification from the FDEP. The Key Largo Angler’s Club was able to proceed with its mangrove management plan, achieving its goals of maintaining shoreline views and access while contributing to the conservation of Florida’s precious mangrove ecosystems.

Project Highlights:

• This project exemplifies how environmental stewardship and practical needs can be harmoniously balanced through careful planning and adherence to regulatory frameworks. WGI’s approach highlights the importance of detailed environmental assessments, professional expertise, and innovative solutions in managing protected natural resources like mangroves.

Services Provided:

• Environmental