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| Celebrating 50 Years |
| 50
years ago, we went to the moon! That same year, and much closer to
home, the Florida Legislature established the Boca Ciega Bay Aquatic
Preserve and launched our community into a new generation of
environmental advocacy. Sponsored
by the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, the Boca Ciega Bay 50th
Anniversary Celebration was attended by State Officials, County
Commissioners, Mayors, Municipal Elected Officials, County and City
Staff. This citizen-driven and science-based program featured
educational kiosks, interactive activities, a virtual reality (VR)
headset experience, and special prizes. The event was held at St
Petersburg College Seminole Campus and spearheaded by Friends’ life
member Terry Fortner. The
honorable Roger H. Wilson was recognized for his life-long service and
commitment to Tampa Bay’s natural resources. Roger served in the
Florida State of House Representatives from 1968-1976, where he
authored the 1969 Bill that established Boca Ciega Bay Aquatic Preserve
and the 1972 Bill that established Pinellas County as an Aquatic
Preserve. Due in large part to Roger’s service, there are now 42
aquatic preserves in Florida. |
About the Friends of the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves
The Friends of the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves, Inc.
is a 503c nonprofit organization founded in 2019. The Friends is a
citizens support group that supports the efforts of the Tampa Bay
Aquatic Preserves.
As citizens who support the management and conservation of our Tampa Bay aquatic preserves, our non profit group is capable of enhancing the efforts of our governing agencies, scientists, and employees who study, administer, and care for these extensive aquatic preserves in the Tampa Bay area.
As citizens who support the management and conservation of our Tampa Bay aquatic preserves, our non profit group is capable of enhancing the efforts of our governing agencies, scientists, and employees who study, administer, and care for these extensive aquatic preserves in the Tampa Bay area.
Positively Impacting Our Preserves
Positive impacts we provide, include:
- Funding projects
- Providing volunteer support
- Advocating for preservation and restoration efforts
- Enhancing educational curriculum in our schools
- Providing community outreach and education