Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve

The Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve (NCAP), designated in 2020 by the Florida Legislature, is Florida’s 42nd aquatic preserve and the state’s first new aquatic preserve in 32 years. It encompasses 800 square miles of coastal waters, including 625 miles of shoreline, along Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, making it the second-largest aquatic preserve in Florida.

Last Modified: Monday, Jul 01, 2024 - 01:34pm

Pinellas County Aquatic Preserves

 

The Boca Ciega Bay and Pinellas County aquatic preserves (referred to collectively as the Pinellas County Aquatic Preserves) were designated in 1969 and 1972, respectively.

Boca Ciega Bay was designated as an aquatic preserve to aid in halting the wholesale dredging and filling of the bay that occurred with the finger fill developments of the 1950s. Pinellas County Aquatic Preserve was designated to help prevent the events in Boca Ciega Bay from being repeated elsewhere. 

Last Modified: Tuesday, Jun 18, 2024 - 07:02pm

Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve

 

"Very rarely can you be on the water or stand at the water's edge and see a shoreline as protected as Pine Island Sound. It is rimmed with mangroves and other vegetation that protect both the surrounding land and the water within." - Erick Lindblad, former executive director for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

 

Last Modified: Monday, Jul 01, 2024 - 01:34pm

Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve

"Imagine Florida without its tourism-driven economy: without fishing, boating, wading and beachcombing. Thankfully, you won't have to because the state's 41 aquatic preserves (AP), including Lemon Bay AP, will help safeguard Florida's environment and quality of life for generations to come." - U.S. Senator Bill Nelson

 

Last Modified: Monday, Jul 01, 2024 - 01:34pm