Sarasota Bay Estuary Program excursion: Lido Mangrove Tunnels

The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) has several upcoming free kayak excursions in Sarasota Bay. The next trips include the Lido Mangrove Tunnels (2/2 and 2/16), Blind Pass (3/2 and 3/16), and Lyons and Blackburn Bay (4/6 and 4/20). All of the SBEP kayak excursions require online registration at sarasotabay.org.

The SBEP Bay Wise Kayak Tour Program is a fun learning opportunity to discover the plants, animals, habitats, and restoration projects that distinguish Sarasota Bay. Brad Tanner, a professional guide and the School Programs Coordinator for Mote Marine Laboratory, is the kayak tour leader. Brad is also a member of the SBEP Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC).

Additional information and online registration is available at sarasotabay.org. Participants are required to bring their own kayak and gear. Outfitters throughout the region rent kayaks and offer demonstrations and beginner classes. The Bay Wise Kayak Tour Program is for experienced kayakers.

The late Jack Taylor, a respected marine biologist and former member of the CAC, launched the kayak tour program in 2007 as part of a SBEP Bay Partners Grant. Jack earned a post graduate degree in Marine Biology from the University of Florida. He was active with many conservation groups throughout the region and some of his poetry is also posted on the SBEP website’s Creative Expression Gallery.