Egmont Key has long stood as a vital ecological sanctuary and a beacon of our region’s cultural and historical heritage. However, in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the fragile balance of this cherished island has been severely disrupted. 

The challenges posed by the collaborative management nature of the island have been brought into stark relief—Egmont Key was closed for over six months following the storms and recently reopened. Wildlife habitats are at risk, and the island's historic and cultural sites are falling into disrepair. Without swift, coordinated action, we risk losing not only a crucial ecological haven but also a living monument to our shared past. 

Join the St. Pete Chamber for The State of the Island, a collaborative forum designed to assess the current conditions, share updates, and establish a clear path forward for the island’s restoration and future stewardship. Members of the business community along with key stakeholders at the local, state and federal level will come together to discuss and brainstorm ways to strengthen the collaborative management of Egmont Key and surrounding areas. 

8:30am - Arrive at Ft. DeSoto boat ramps, check in

9:00am - 9:45am - Ferry trip via Hubbard's Marina leaving from Ft. Desoto to Egmont Key 

9:45am - 11:30am - On Island Assessment Walk focused on wildlife identification, testing water quality and infrastructure issues 

11:30am - 1:00pm - Lunch and "State of the Island" Forum 

1:00pm - 1:45pm - Wrap up and what's next - Ferry trip back to Ft. DeSoto