Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve

Project Spotlight

"Because of its pristine condition, Cockroach Bay has become established as Tampa Bay’s premier estuarine outdoor classroom for generations of students of all ages."

Randy Runnels, Aquatic Preserve Manager

Islands in Cockroach Bay

Key Accomplishments

Mangrove restoration

Reclaiming Habitat

Over the past century, much of the land adjacent to the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve was either farmed or quarried for shell. In recent years, the Southwest Florida Water Management District has led a variety of agencies, organizations and individuals in the conversion of fallow farm fields and shell pits into a mosaic of coastal habitats. The wetlands and other habitats that result will be instrumental in "polishing" runoff from inland agricultural and industrial operations. Because projects like this require major site alterations, and because they are often near sensitive natural habitat, resource protection becomes an especially important aspect of planning and construction. The Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves Program draws upon knowledge of site conditions and ecosystem function to help ensure that the maximum net benefit to the environment is achieved.

Quick Facts about Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve

Location:

Hillsborough County

Acreage

8,000 acres of sovereign submerged lands

Contact:

Randy Runnels
Aquatic Preserve Manager
130 Terra Ceia Road
Terra Ceia, FL 34250
941-721-2068

Download a printable version of this page.

Further information about Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve

Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve Management Plan

The Spoonbill - Spring 2008

The Spoonbill - Fall 2007

Mangrove roots

Mangrove forests, oyster reefs and seagrass beds support abundant wildlife.

Eggs of a moon snail

A "sand collar" of eggs produced by a moon snail will yield a new generation of marine life.

Kayaker

Kayaks are a popular means of navigating shallow waters in search of big gamefish.

Sunset

Sunset doesn’t end the enjoyment of this exceptional area.

The name "Cockroach Bay" may have originated with early explorers who observed numerous horseshoe crabs in the area.
This is the only aquatic preserve in Florida in which the submerged land of the preserve is not state-owned. The submerged lands are owned by Hillsborough Port Authority.
The preserve includes two paddling trails that wind through mangrove labyrinths.
Numerous mangrove islands provide nursery areas for snook, red drum, and other gamefish.
Submerged habitats include seagrass beds, hardbottom, and oyster reefs.
Archaeological sites indicate the importance of this area to pre-Columbian Native Americans.

Last updated: November 19, 2008