Environmental Management Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key Preserve

Shortly after Labor Day there will be a maintenance dredging project along the eastern edge of the Shell Key Preserve along Oceanview Drive in Tierra Verde. This privately-funded dredging project is necessary to maintain historic navigability. If you have questions about the dredging please call the Water and Navigation section at (727) 453-3385.

Shell Key Preserve was established in 2000 with the cooperation of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Designed to protect sensitive marine habitats, this 1,800-acre Preserve includes one of the county's largest undeveloped barrier islands (Shell Key) as well as numerous mangrove islands and expansive sea grass beds. Shell Key has been designated as one of the state's most important areas for shorebird nesting and wintering and it serves as an important study area for these species. It also is an important area for recreation. A balance for both uses was established by restricting public use to the northern and southern ends of the island. A central core area for conservation is off-limits to the public. Boating, camping, and beach-going activities are permitted in public use areas of the Preserve. Visitors can access Shell Key only via a water vessel. No restroom facilities are provided.

For Shell Key Preserve rules, regulations, click here.

Preserve Hours:
Daily
24 hours a day
Open on holidays

All Shell Key campers are required to obtain a CAMPING PERMIT.

Shell Key Preserve Management

Land management activities at Shell Key Preserve are guided by the 2007 Shell Key Preserve Management Plan.

Activities include:

Restoration
Prescribed Burns
Ecological Monitoring
Long-term Research

For more information and directions to Shell Key Preserve, please contact us.

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