Join the 30th Annual Great Bay Scallop Search - Volunteer Opportunity

Saturday, August 2, 2025
9 AM - 1 PM
3 Locations: Tierra Verde, St. Pete, Palmetto

Where: Volunteer boaters, kayakers, and snorkelers will assemble at the following locations:

Fort De Soto Park boat ramp, 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Grandview Park boat ramp, 3734-3814 6th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St. W, Palmetto, FL 34221

Tampa Bay Watch, in partnership with the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, invites snorkelers, boaters, and kayakers to participate in the 30th Annual Great Bay Scallop Search on Aug. 2, 2025. Volunteers will help monitor the health of the bay scallop population, with this year’s event expanding to include Emerson Point Preserve in Palmetto, Fla. Your involvement is crucial in supporting Tampa Bay’s ongoing marine conservation efforts.
Details

Since 1993, this event has been a cornerstone of our efforts to monitor and document the health and status of the local bay scallop population. Volunteer snorkelers and boaters will meticulously search designated sites within Middle and Lower Tampa Bay, Boca Ciega Bay, and the newly added Emerson Point Preserve in Palmetto, Florida. The search outcomes vary annually, influenced by factors such as water quality, red tide, rainfall, and storms. The record high was set in 2009 with an impressive 674 scallops found.

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Caryn Nesmith

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