Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve

Project Spotlight

"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, like, Lemon Bay, will help safeguard Florida’s environment and quality of life for future generations to come."

U.S. Senator Bill Nelson

Mangroves and seagrapes by the shore

Key Accomplishments

Volunteers in water quality monitoring training

Water Quality Monitoring

In 1996, the Charlotte Harbor Estuaries Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Network was developed. At sunrise on the first Monday of each month, 20 citizens in Lemon Bay monitor 12 sites for 19 key water quality parameters. These data, as well as findings from other water quality monitoring programs, are used to compare relationships between locations, time and parameters. A summary of the results was presented at the 2005 Charlotte Harbor Watershed Summit and will be published in Florida Scientist. Water quality conditions in Lemon Bay show average conditions, with very high nutrient, chlorophyll and bacteria levels associated with summer rain events. Comprehensive watershed management activities will be directed toward reducing detrimental conditions.

Quick Facts about Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve

Location:

Charlotte and Sarasota counties

Acreage

8,000 acres of sovereign submerged lands

Contact:

Heather Stafford
Aquatic Preserve Manager
12301 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33955
941-575-5861

Download a printable version of this page.

Further information about Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve

Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve Management Plan

Bald eagle

Manatee grass

Child holding a horse conch

Young naturalist holding a horse conch

Lemon Bay, the smallest of the 5 Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves, was designated as an aquatic preserve in 1986.
It is long, narrow and shallow. Two Gulf passes and 7 tributaries flow into the aquatic preserve, creating a diverse network of mangroves, marsh grass, and vast expanses of seagrass meadows which cover most of the underwater habitats.
Over 150 species of birds, 100 species of invertebrates, and 200 species of fish reside in the bay.
Residents and visitors enjoy fishing, kayaking, birding, wading and beachcombing. Ski Alley, the Intracoastal Waterway and several anchorages are popular with recreational boaters.

White pelicans

White pelicans in residence for the winter

Last updated: June 20, 2008