Audubon Society Sues Over Kingston Development Near Corkscrew Swamp

The National Audubon Society has filed a lawsuit against two federal agencies, challenging their approval of the 6,700-acre Kingston development in eastern Lee County.

The project, which calls for 10,000 homes and 750,000 square feet of commercial space, borders the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Collier County. Audubon argues the plan threatens the sanctuary’s water quality, wildlife corridors, and ecological integrity.

Key concerns include fertilizer runoff contaminating wetlands, construction cutting off Florida panther travel routes, and development interfering with prescribed burns needed for habitat management.

After years of unsuccessful discussions with the developer, Audubon says the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ permit fails to protect the environment, leading to the lawsuit.

The 13,000-acre Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, home to the world’s largest stand of old-growth bald cypress trees, attracts more than 80,000 visitors annually. Conservationists say the case could set a precedent for how Florida balances growth and environmental preservation.