More BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Video) deployments for the Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve staff at several of the hardbottom monitoring sites as part of the Springs Coast Resiliency and Biodiversity Monitoring Network. This week we deployed the BRUVs at two of our shallow sites that we are monitoring for the grant. Many fish species and several sharks were very interested in the sardine filled PVC tube.

Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve staff visited Anclote Key for a site visit for the RESTORE grant for the SCAR MAPS project. The project will evaluate the effects of marking an existing pole and troll zone on private submerged lands to hopefully see a reduction in prop scar in the area.

Staff from Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve (NCAP) joined UF to conduct fish trawls off Anclote Key to sample fish population in the SCARMAPS quadrats. In addition to fish populations, data was gathered on water quality conditions, large predators in the quads and prop scar conditions. The 6-meter trawl was towed behind the boat in 2-minute segments, and all fish were counted and measured for the project. 

Early detection and rapid response is the most effective form of invasive species management, so when a downstream neighbor contacted RSAP staff alerting them of a school of tilapia moving in and several plecos hanging around, we had to call in for assistance from the Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve (NCAP). While Trisha was giving the kayak tour, Joe (RSAP) and Tyler (NCAP) searched the lower river for invasive fish and removed 11 plecos.

Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve assisted in helping with hardbottom monitoring in Saint Martin's Marsh Aquatic Preserve and in Natures Coast Aquatic Preserve. Sponge, coral, invertebrates and many other aspects are being monitored as part of a 3-year grant project for the area.

This week NCAP participated in the International Coastal Cleanup event held at Linda Peterson Park by the IFAS/Sea grant office on the coast of Hernando County. NCAP staff, and some staff from BBSAP, launched out of the Bayport boat ramp on the airboat to retrieve hurricane debris in the areas further away from where event volunteers on kayaks could reach.

As the regional manager for Florida’s Big Bend Region, it’s my pleasure to welcome you to the breathtaking Nature Coast. Designated as an aquatic preserve in 2020, this hidden gem just north of St. Petersburg is a sanctuary of life and adventure. From its vast seagrass meadows to the awe-inspiring tiger sharks, graceful osprey, playful river otters and everything in between, the Nature Coast is teeming with biodiversity.