Next sessions held for Preserving Paradise program
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that for the fourth session of Preserving Paradise — a water quality education program for regional business leaders — participants headed out on the water to enjoy a fishing day on the Caloosahatchee River and in the Pine Island Sound.
The SanCap Chamber, SCCF, Captains for Clean Water and The Everglades Foundation have partnered to lead the program, which launched in early August.
On Sept. 17, the group met at the Sanibel Marina before splitting up with local fishing guides. Experts from the leading organizations joined each boat to provide teaching moments, such as the diverse species of fish found in the estuary, their habitat requirements and the environmental threats that face maintaining clean water and sustainable fisheries.
EXPLORING OYSTERS, SEAGRASS
On Sept. 3, the leading organizations hosted the third session of the program.
Following a tour of the SCCF’s Marine Lab at Tarpon Bay, the group got out into the field. Aboard an Adventures in Paradise vessel, participants enjoyed the morning on the water learning about the SCCF’s River, Estuary, and Coastal Observing Network (RECON), visiting a restored oyster reef, and trawling for fish within seagrass habitats. Marine Lab Director Dr. Eric Milbrandt was alongside guiding the group on the R/V Norma Campbell.
Participants then spent the afternoon at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille discussing legislative advocacy as it pertains to Everglades restoration and water quality in the region. They heard presentations from The Everglades Foundation Director of Engagement & Outreach Keely Weyker, SCCF Chief Executive Officer James Evans, SCCF Policy Associate Allie Pecenka and Captains for Clean Water Director of Policy Jessica Pinsky.
Weyker discussed the ongoing need to advocate for federal funding for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Evans and Pecenka focused on agency advocacy for the Everglades and regional water quality, while Pinsky explored how businesses can be instrumental players in getting legislators to support environmental causes.