SAVE OUR PINES DAY  SUNDAY MARCH 17, 2024

Like some sinister fairy tale, the Fort Zachary Taylor Australian pine trees have faced the most adverse conditions. From being slotted for destruction by man to bracing against brutal hurricane winds, these pines have managed to stand the test of time for over fifty years making them rich in history and cultural significance. But not without a fairy godmother, of course. The Save Our Pines grassroots organization for two decades has stepped up and stopped the chainsaws and nurtured the existing plants. They helped organize and facilitate trimming before and after each hurricane and now, today are trying to pass state legislation to permanently save the pines. The Save Our Pines Organization knows their work is far from done and needs the community’s help to solicit our state legislators help in passing a legislative exemption that would safeguard them for future generations.

“They shield the Fort from the incessant pounding of mother nature,” said Helen Harrison, who initially spearheaded the Save Our Pines campaign. Back in 2006, in accordance with state statutes the pines were labeled invasive by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and about 100 trees were removed with more to follow to make way for concrete pavilions and replacement natives. Save Our Pines rallied both public and political support to leave the remaining pines in their natural state, however without an exemption reforestation is currently illegal and loss by attrition is winning. We now need to complete our mission with a planned program of controlled new growth to replace the ones lost to age. This along with the natives would be a balanced solution.

Why are these spindly, bushy trees so important? Back in the 60s, the pines were used to keep the fill in tact. Now, full grown, they serve another purpose shading the crowds and softening the landscape. Locals and visitors alike understand, without these pines, Ft. Zach would be a hot, barren, and unenjoyable destination. For many, it is the backyard of Key West used for birthday parties, weddings, yoga, sunsets and event viewing such as the powerboat races. As one of the most profitable recreational parks in the state of Florida any change that would diminish its popularity would substantially reduce the local and state revenue it generates.

Without the trees protecting Ft. Zach, would Ft. Zach be the place we love to go? Please know these pines are not saved yet!

In 2015, Mayor Craig Cates proclaimed the third Sunday in March as “Save Our Pines Day in the Southernmost City of the Continental United States.” This anniversary visit ww.saveourpines.com and make a donation or email [email protected] to help the cause!

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