Chapter Conservation Win: Sarasota Audubon Defeats Development Proposal That Would Harm Adjacent Celery Fields Wetland Restoration

In a major conservation win, Sarasota Audubon Society successfully led efforts to block a housing development proposed directly on flood-prone land that drains to the Celery Fields, Sarasota County's iconic, restored wetland and birding destination. On February 7, the Sarasota County Commission voted 5–0 to deny the rezoning, citing overwhelming evidence of environmental and public safety risks presented by Sarasota Audubon.

From the beginning, the chapter mobilized a broad coalition of birders, scientists, and neighbors. Sarasota Audubon crafted a strategic campaign—presenting compelling bird data, organizing community voices, and delivering a powerful presentation at the commission meeting.

A central focus of their argument was the land’s severe flooding risk. The proposed site is 67% floodplain and lies adjacent to the Celery Fields, which doubles as the County’s largest stormwater holding space.

During Tropical Storm Debby, the Celery Fields and the adjacent property experienced extensive flooding, an undeniable sign that it is unsuitable for residential development. Sarasota Audubon emphasized that any attempt to develop the land would likely exacerbate flooding in neighboring communities, a public safety concern that resonated deeply with both residents and commissioners.

The chapter also provided evidence of potential ecological impacts using eBird data. Nearby Ackerman Park, once home to more than 170 bird species, now hosts fewer than 60 after another development surrounded it. Allowing development here would shrink critical buffer zones, pushing bird species inward, increasing competition, and degrading the ecosystem.

Sarasota Audubon further reminded commissioners of their own precedent: The County had previously entrusted the chapter with the Quad parcels. The Quads create an important buffer zone for the Celery Fields, affirming the importance of protecting the area’s perimeter.

This vote is a testament to Sarasota Audubon’s trusted leadership, science-based advocacy, and deep commitment to protecting habitat, wildlife, and community resilience.

This article was published in the Audubon Florida Naturalist Summer 2025 magazine.