Rae Ann Wessel reflects on her 42-year career as a water advocate and scientist in Southwest Florida as she joins us on her last day of work as SCCF Natural Resources Policy Director. Over several decades, Wessel gained a solid reputation as one of the most articulate voices for Caloosahatchee and Everglades restoration that our region has ever known. For the past 14 years, she took on an unexpected role in policy as she helped Sanibel and Captiva islanders learn how interconnected the islands' water quality is with the greater Everglades ecosystem and how to make their voices known to water managers and policymakers. She also talks about how important SCCF research is in providing a scientific basis to calls for change.

Wessel also talks about retiring at a time when COVID-19 is dominating life and limiting travel and socializing. Through it all, she maintains her trademark sense of humor and keeps a positive attitude toward the unexpected path that lies ahead for her.