In 1963, a 10-mile road—dubbed the “Road to Nowhere”—was proposed through Rookery Bay. If built, it would have devastated Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

But this community stepped up.

Local residents rallied together and raised over $600,000 to protect 3,362 acres of land—laying the foundation for what is now the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Today, that protected area has grown to more than 110,000 acres, spanning 40% of Collier County’s coastline from the City of Naples to the Western Everglades, safeguarding the largest continuous mangrove forest in North America—critical for wildlife, water quality, and storm protection—all crucial for our local economy.

Now, it’s our turn.

We’re launching a grassroots campaign to Save the Bay, and we need your help.

In honor of the 63 years since that first community-led effort, Friends of Rookery Bay is working to raise $63,000 by June 30, 2026 to support vital conservation, research, and education programs.

Just like the local students who once collected spare change to protect this place, you can make a difference today.

Sign-up on this page
Set your own fundraising goal
Share your personal link with friends and family
Help protect Rookery Bay for generations to come

It’s as simple as that—and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Thank you for standing up for Rookery Bay!

Participants who raise $250 or more will receive the below limited edition t-shirt as a thank you from us!

We'll also be recognizing the top overall fundraising participant!

Please contact info@rookerybay.org for any questions.

Save the Bay 2026!

Join us in protecting SWFL's most precious resource

Team Members