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The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Offers 10 Free Guided Kayak Trips of Sarasota Bay

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SARASOTA, FL - The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) has scheduled 10 free guided kayak excursions throughout Sarasota Bay from December through April. The first two trips are to Neal Preserve on Saturday, December 3 and Saturday, December 17. Neal Preserve is the newest preserve in Manatee County scheduled to open later in 2012. All of the individual kayak excursions require prior 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.

Additional trips are planned for Leffis and Jewfish Key (1/7 and 1/21), Lido Mangrove Tunnels (2/4 and 2/18), Blind Pass (3/3 and 3/17), and Lyons and Blackburn Bay (4/7 and 4/21). 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 Program is for experienced kayakers.