In 1970s, Marty Bluewater bought land on island planned for 800 homes; he is now its only resident

Protection Island, once envisioned as a holiday community for 800 homes, has become a sanctuary for wildlife, with a single human resident.

In the 1970s, Marty Bluewater purchased a parcel of land on the island, then slated for development. However, the island's ecological significance soon came to the forefront. Conservationists launched efforts to protect its vital wildlife habitat, leading to a pivotal decision.

In 1982, the entire 400-acre island was designated a National Wildlife Refuge. This move aimed to preserve the natural environment and its inhabitants. Bluewater, who had invested in the island years prior, was granted permission to continue living there.

Over the decades, as the planned community never materialized and development ceased, Bluewater remained. He has since become the island's only human resident, living amidst the protected wildlife that now calls Protection Island home.