But in the 1960s, under private ownership, the island's wetlands were drained by ditches. Soon, the island became badly infested with exotic plant species. As the exotics proliferated, the variety of native birds and animals plummeted. What was once a unique example of original Florida habitat veered dangerously near oblivion.

Endangered Wood Storks find safety among the wetlands on Little Pine Island. Once on the verge of extinction, today there is a significant population of Wood Storks foraging on the island.

As standing fresh water returns to Little Pine Island, tiny fish like this Sailfin Molly are once again flourishing, providing food to support other wildlife in this vital wetland.

Then, in 1996, Mariner Properties Development, Inc. stepped forward. With the guidance of scientists and the oversight of state and federal agencies, the job of removing the exotics began. Working with chainsaws and other hand tools, work teams began removing an average of 30 tons of exotic biomass per acre - an amount roughly equal to the full cargo capacity of a tractor-trailer. Although laborious and time-consuming, hand-removal ensures millions of exotic plant seeds are taken away, reducing their regeneration on the island.

As the work progressed, something amazing happened: When the exotics were removed, the island began to come alive. Birds and animals began returning, and native seeds which had lain buried and dormant for 30 years began sprouting anew. Today, Little Pine Island stands as a shining example of what a public/private partnership can accomplish.