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LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Local group gives thanks for UTV to help Stump Pass

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May 15, 2020
By Marcy Shortuse
To the Editor: Stump Pass Beach State Park is finally receiving a much needed vehicle to transport rangers and volunteers around the park’s 1.3 miles of trails and shoreline. The UTV will be most helpful to park staff and volunteers as they work on the many projects such as shorebird stewarding, sea turtle patrol, removing […]

To the Editor:
Stump Pass Beach State Park is finally receiving a much needed vehicle to transport rangers and volunteers around the park’s 1.3 miles of trails and shoreline. The UTV will be most helpful to park staff and volunteers as they work on the many projects such as shorebird stewarding, sea turtle patrol, removing heavy debris from the beach and eradicating invasive species.
The new vehicle is being made possible thanks to monies raised by the Friends of Stump Pass (FOSP), a subgroup of Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS), during the “Beach Bash” fundraiser. The event was held January 25, 2020, at the scenic Sunset Terrace, located at the Lighthouse Grille in Englewood. Over 120 FOSP friends came together at the sold out event to show their support at the enjoyable evening that offered fantastic food, caribbean music, and silent auction. The popular event raised $9,259.24 (after expenses) with a goal of purchasing the new Polaris Ranger 500 for use at the park.
FOSP would like to thank event sponsors: Coastal Engineering, Coastal Wildlife Club, Howell Concrete & Land Service, Ingman Marine, Leslie Brown Team Keller Williams, Nature Connections Photography, Lemon Bay Playhouse, Kathleen Damewood/Re/Max Alliance Group, and Oils 4 Healthy Living for their generous support in helping them reach this ambitious goal.
The mission of FOSP: To preserve nature and protect wildlife by connecting people to the unspoiled beauty of Stump Pass Beach State Park.
Friends of Stump Pass is a subgroup of Barrier Island Parks Society, Inc. (BIPS). BIPS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and the official Citizen Support Organization, CSO for the Florida Park Service. BIPS supports four local barrier island state parks. 
We are a passionate group of volunteers dedicated to preserving nature and protecting wildlife by connecting people to the unspoiled beauty of Stump Pass Beach State Park. We are always looking for like-minded friends to join us. Please download form and mail to us at the bottom of the form https://bit.ly/2YNL1PU.
The park is habitat to endangered and threatened species. Pets are not allowed on the beach at the park at any time. Leashed service dogs are permitted by law. 
Stump Pass Beach State Park is located on Manasota Key in Charlotte County. The park has a $3 entrance fee per car, and $2 walkers, boat or bicycle.
Carol McCoy, Chairperson
Friends of Stump Pass