ANEP: About Estuaries - Sarasota Bay

About Estuaries:
Insights on the NEPs - Sarasota Bay

Released in November 1995, the comprehensive management plan for Sarasota Bay focuses on improving water quality and productivity.
Community efforts to improve water quality are focusing on controlling nitrogen. Since 1988, it is estimated that nitrogen loading has been reduced by 47%-58% due to improved wastewater treatment, re-use of wastewater and the construction of stormwater control projects. Reduced pollution has in-turn resulting in a dramatic increase in seagrass acreage and an estimated 38 million more fish, 114 million more crabs and 58 million more shrimp than in 1988.

Wetlands restoration and artificial reef creation (for juvenile fish) are also major features of the management plan. Since 1989, more than $8.5 million in wetlands restoration projects (400 acres) are completed or are planned. Nine additional artificial reef sites have been permitted or are in the permitting process; two reefs have been refurbished since 1995.

Significant land acquisition efforts to protect bay habitat are underway.

Changes in local landscaping and maintenance practices are also proposed to reduce fertilizer and pesticide runoff. The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Program is being implemented with twelve model yards created. "The Gulf Coast Heritage Trails" system has been conceptually adopted by the community as a mechanism to develop stewardship and promote eco-tourism.

For more information about the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program:

Call (941) 955-8085

Write us at SBEP, 111 South Orange Avenue, Suite 200W, Sarasota, Florida 34236

E-mail us at brie@sarasotabay.org

Please visit our website at http://www.sarasotabay.org