SBEP Releases Ecosystem Health Update for Sarasota-Manatee Bays and Estuaries

WaterAtlas.org — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Sarasota, FL (April 8, 2026) — The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) released its 2026 update to the annual Ecosystem Health Report Card, showcasing conditions for the 2025 calendar year.
About the Report Card
The Report Card uses four indicators of ecosystem health to assess conditions in the five bay segments within SBEP’s jurisdiction. The indicators include total nitrogen, chlorophyll-a, seagrass, and macroalgae. SBEP relies on partners at Manatee County, Sarasota County, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and trained citizen scientists to collect the data.
2025 Ecosystem Health Summary
The Sarasota–Manatee region experienced dramatic environmental swings from 2024 to 2025, including intense hurricanes followed by prolonged drought. These storms brought heavy rainfall, storm surge, and increased nutrient runoff, temporarily impacting water quality; however, conditions improved throughout 2025 as the system began to recover.
Despite these challenges, local bays remain healthy and resilient. Water quality rebounded across most areas, with nutrient levels returning to target ranges after short-term storm impacts. Macroalgae levels, which can increase rapidly due to high nutrients in the water, also remained stable in 2025.
Seagrass, an important indicator of ecosystem health, showed strong recovery in 2024 prior to the storm season, with Sarasota Bay seeing a 24% increase and reaching near-historic levels. Updated seagrass maps will be available in 2027 and will reflect conditions for late 2024-early 2026.
Scientists continue to monitor changes in lower bay segments following the reopening of Midnight Pass, which is increasing tidal flow and influencing water conditions.
Meanwhile, nutrient levels in Blackburn Bay remain slightly elevated due to limited tidal flushing, and although still below regulatory concern, they will require continued monitoring.
Overall, the region’s estuaries are demonstrating strong resilience, supported by ongoing investments in water quality improvements, habitat restoration, and hydrologic management to protect these ecosystems into the future.
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“The Bay continues to show resilience in the face of extreme conditions, largely due to the focus on upgrading wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, but the Bay's future also depends on our individual actions. We can all make a positive impact by managing the runoff from our yards and businesses through the reduction of fertilizer use and the collection of yard debris, dirt, pet waste, and chemicals before they make it into the stormwater system that discharges into our creeks and bays. With a little bit of effort and persistence, we can each help protect the landscapes and waterways we call home,” said Dr. Ryan Gandy, SBEP Executive Director.
Figure 1: Sarasota Bay Ecosystem Health Report Card (2026 update for 2025)

### About the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program: The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is a cooperative partnership among communities, researchers, and governments that strives to improve the health of Sarasota Bay and enhance the area's natural resources for public benefit. Learn more at www.sarasotabay.org

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program to Offer Free Therapeutic Kayak Trips for Veterans

WaterAtlas.org — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Partners with Wayne Adventures to Offer Free Therapeutic Kayak Trips for Veterans

Sarasota, FL (January 7, 2026) — The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP), in partnership with Wayne Adventures, is offering free therapeutic kayak tours for local veterans, with a special focus on those living with PTSD. These guided outings provide veterans with a peaceful opportunity to connect with nature, build camaraderie, and experience the restorative power of Sarasota Bay and its tributaries.

Designed to be accessible and welcoming, the kayak trips require no prior paddling experience. All equipment, instruction, and on-water support are provided. The program emphasizes healing, connection, and shared experience in a safe and supportive environment.

“I want to share with others what water means to me—its unique ability to calm my mind and nourish my spirit,” said Wayne Douchkoff, program guide and owner of Wayne Adventures. “These trips are about more than kayaking—they’re about creating space for healing, understanding, and renewal.”

The kayak tours are made possible through a grant from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and sponsorship by Wayne Adventures, allowing veterans to participate at no cost. In addition to the therapeutic benefits, participants will learn about Sarasota Bay’s coastal ecosystems and the importance of protecting and preserving local waterways. “Our estuary’s natural resilience offers healing and connection, and when we care for it, we all benefit. Through our mission, we create meaningful opportunities for the community, especially those with limited access, to unwind, heal, and reconnect with this restorative space,” said Dr. Ryan Gandy, Executive Director of the SBEP. Several outings will also include coastal cleanup events, giving participants the chance to give back to the environment while enjoying time on the water.

2026 Kayak Trip Schedule All trips are guided and open to participating veterans.

• Saturday, January 10 – Ken Thompson Park, 10 a.m.

• Saturday, January 17 – Whitaker Bayou, 10 a.m.

• Saturday, February 14 – Bowlees Creek, 10 a.m.

• Saturday, March 7 – Philippi Estate Park, 10 a.m.

• Saturday, April 18 – Neal Preserve, 9 a.m.

• Saturday, May 16 – Ken Thompson Park, 9 a.m.

• Saturday, June 13 – Robinson Preserve, 9 a.m.

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program 111 South Orange Avenue, Suite 200W, Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.955.8085 | www.sarasotabay.org | info@sarasotabay.org

The program is currently seeking both veteran participants and volunteers. Volunteers do not need to be veterans to participate. Veterans and community members interested in learning more or signing up are encouraged to contact wdouchkoff@aol.com.

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SBEP Releases Ecosystem Health Update for Sarasota-Manatee Bays and Estuaries

Sarasota Bay Estuary Program to Offer Free Therapeutic Kayak Trips for Veterans