This blog is dedicated to the environmental well-being of our Florida coastal habitat.

This blog is
dedicated to the environmental well-being of coastal habitat.

Friday, December 6, 2013

December 2013 Kayak Trips

Quiet Water Kayak Trips

Enjoy leisurely paddling and observation at a variety of sites difficult to visit by any other means. Kayak, paddles, life vest, etc. supplied. If you haven’t used a kayak before, a short training session before the trip will get you going. Members who bring their own kayak and life vests can participate for a $5 donation to the Society. Otherwise, cost is $20 for members, $25 for non-members unless otherwise noted. State parks require an additional entrance fee.
Call John at 941-966-7308 for info and reservations.
December
Dec  1   South Lido Park / Bird Key   10 am – 1 pm
Dec  3   Myakka River State Park   9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Dec 11   Blackburn Pt. / Oscar Sherer State Park   9 am – 1 pm
Dec 14   South Lido Park / Bird Key   10 am – 1 pm
Dec 15   Myakka River State Park   9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Dec 18   Waterways of Nokomis   12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Dec 21   Little Sarasota Bay / Palmer Pt Park    10 am – 1 pm
Dec 22   Myakka River State Park   9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Dec 25   Little Sarasota Bay / Palmer Pt. Park   10 am – 1 pm
Dec 26   South Lido Park / Bird Key   10 am – 1 pm 

Monday, October 28, 2013

She's studied red tide so much they named it after her

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20131028/COLUMNIST/131029634/2416/NEWS?Title=Ernst-She-s-studied-red-tide-so-much-they-named-it-after-her

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20131028/COLUMNIST/131029634/2416/NEWS?Title=Ernst-She-s-studied-red-tide-so-much-they-named-it-after-her

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Stone Crab Season

Stone crab season opens Oct. 15th – you will soon be seeing a host of media stories about this unique Florida delicacy.

Yes, it is true that stone crabs are able to regenerate harvested claws – this is why only the claws are removed and the crab is returned alive to the water.

Want to learn more?

We have just posted an article on the Marine Scene Plus  Trust me you will learn a lot about what many consider to be the greatest seafood delicacy in the world.

Please use the search function on the Marine Scene Plus and you will find a number of other interesting articles on the subject.  You can also find a number of past articles on a variety of fascinating topics.

Remember, we have migrated the old Marine Scene newsletter to this blog-like format. Please make it a habit to check make from time to time for new articles or just browse back through other topics.

 Note from John M. Stevely












Photos: Bryan Fluech, Fresh from Florida

Tuesday, October 15, 2013


Monday, September 23, 2013

Sarasota Bay Watch 5th Annual Fishing Line Cleanup



5th Annual
Fishing Line Cleanup 

 
     Who:  Volunteers like you who love to make a difference!
     When:  Saturday, October 5th, 8:30 - 12:30
     Where:  Launching from Sarasota Sailing Squadron 
     Registration:  Required, lunch available after the cleanup.  Sign up NOW!
 
 
We collaborate with Audubon Florida to conduct this cleanup now because most birds do not nest in the fall.  We will target removing fishing line from bird nesting habitat islands and coastlines.
Last year Sarasota Bay Watch's Fishing Line (Monofilament) Cleanup  event attracted over 80 volunteers and retrieved three football field lengths of fishing line from the bay coastline!  The materials collected will be weighed and measured and the data shared with scientists working on entanglement issues.  It is a great day to make a real difference for our waterbirds and other marine wildlife.
 
      What you need:  Boat or Kayak preferred.  We will have limited space available on boats and kayaks.  If you don't have a boat, we will  'cab assign' you to a boat captain with space.  Some cleanup can also be done on foot around the bridges, also.
      What to Bring:  Sturdy footwear, sunscreen, eye protection, hat, gloves, water, and an enthusiastic spirit. 

Come, join our volunteer powerhouse that loves our bay
and does the work to keep it healthy.
 
Register today
(This event is nearly here!)

Sarasota witnesses remarkable comeback for endangered green sea turtles

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130922/ARTICLE/130929902/2416/NEWS?Title=Sarasota-witnesses-remarkable-comeback-for-endangered-green-sea-turtles
- Sarasota Herald Tribune

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Sarasota Field Trips Fall 2013


Fall 2013
  
  
  
Sarasota County on the west coast of Florida boasts some of the most amazing coastal flora, fauna, and habitat in the U.S.  Our Southeast Chapter offers a variety of ways to observe and learn about them. We offer kayaking, guided beach walks, seining, and eco-tours at various times throughout the year. 

Marine Life Explorations - Saturday October 12, 9:30 to 11:30 am
Explore the sea life near our shores with American Littoral Society biologists.  Using hand and seine nets, we will be searching shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Sarasota Bay.  Wading shoes suggested. Call  for reservations.  Call  Chuck at  941-488-8998

Quiet Water Kayaking
Leisurely paddling and observation at a variety of sites difficult to visit by any other means.  Kayak, paddle, life vest, etc.  supplied.  If you've never used a kayak before, a short training session before the trip will get you going.  Call John at (941) 966-7308 for reservations.  Members who own a kayak and life vest are welcome to go on trips marked with no asterisk (*) for a $5 donation to ALS. Cost is $20 for members, $25 for non-members unless otherwise noted.  Trips into State parks also require an additional fee.
  

September
21   Bird Key/South Lido Park......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
22   Shell Key Preserve/Pinellas County...........................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
24   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park................................8:30 - 11:30 am

October  
12   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park................................9 am - noon
13   Little Manatee River State Park...................................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
15   Waterways of Nokomis..........................................................9 am - noon
*16  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle....................................................5:30 - 8:00 pm
*17  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle....................................................5:30 - 8:00 pm
19  Myakka State Park.....................................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
20  Bird Key/South Lido Park..........................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
23  Palma Sola Bay/Robinson Preserve.............................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
27  Myakka State Park.....................................................................8:30 - 11:30 am  

NOTE:   November Preview - Myakka Daze!!! All-day trip down the Myakka River. $50 or $30 with your own boat.  Call John for details @ 941-966-7308
 
  

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Monday, September 9, 2013

"Toast to the Coast" National Estuaries Day 2013 Photo Contest

- from Sarasota Bay Estuary Program
SBEP is joining its 27 sister National Estuary Programs around the U.S. in a nationwide "Toast to the Coast" in honor of National Estuaries Day on Saturday, Sept. 28.   
We invite you to join us by lifting a glass, mug, or cup in a salute to our very own Sarasota Bay.

Snap a picture of yourself or a group of friends toasting to Sarasota Bay and email to info@sarasotabay.org to enter SBEP's 'Toast to the Coast' photo contest.

Creativity is encouraged, but all pictures must show Sarasota Bay in the photograph. Please be sure to reference where the photo was taken.

Those wanting to participate should submit a picture by Monday September 23rd. Later that day, an album will be posted on the SBEP facebook page with all the submissions. The picture to get the most "likes" via the album will be named the winner on National Estuaries Day, September 28.

The winning submission will receive 4 Sarasota Bay Explorers tickets. 
 
 
Questions? Contact Stephanie Hames at info@sarasotabay.org, 941-955-8085

State bans tarpon fishing with Boca Grande Grande jig

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130908/ARTICLE/130909665/2416/NEWS?Title=State-bans-tarpon-fishing-with-Boca-Grande-jig-

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Living Shoreline Project at Bay Front Park in Downtown Sarasota


  -copied from Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Newsletter September 2013

SBEP and the City of Sarasota have installed a living shoreline area at Bay Front Park in downtown Sarasota. The project features 150-feet of Florida-native plants. The use of plants will help stabilize the sediments and provide habitat that attract birds and other wildlife. Living shorelines provide a natural alternative to hardened seawalls made of concrete, rock and other materials. The use of plants and sloping shorelines provides a buffer for stormwater pollution running into local waterways.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District provided funding support for the new project and Stantec is the contractor. SBEP and its partners completed the region's first living shoreline project in 2011 at Herb Dolan Park in Bradenton Beach. Concrete rubble was removed from the site and replaced with natural fiber material and native vegetation. The SBEP website provides more information about living shorelines.

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Sarasota Field Trips Summer/Fall 2013

Sarasota County on the west coast of Florida boasts some of the most amazing coastal flora, fauna, and habitat in the U.S.  Our Southeast Chapter offers a variety of ways to observe and learn about them. We offer kayaking, guided beach walks, seining, and eco-tours at various times throughout the year. 
  
Quiet Water Kayaking
  
Leisurely paddling and observation at a variety of sites difficult to visit by any other means.  Kayak, paddle, life vest etc  supplied.  If you've never used a kayak before, a short training session before the trip will get you going.  Call John at (941) 966-7308 for reservations.  Members who own a kayak and life vest are welcome to go on trips marked with no asterisk (*) for a $5 donation to ALS. Cost is $20 for members, $25 for non-members unless otherwise noted.  Trips into State parks also require an additional fee.
  
August      
8   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park.................................8:30 - 11:30 am
10   Caspersen Beach/Lemon Bay................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
11   Bird Key/South Lido Park.......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
15   Don Pedro State Park/Lemon Bay............................8:30 - 11:30 am  $25 member, $30 non
17   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park.................................8:30 - 11:30 am
*20 Sunset/Moonlight Paddle.....................................................6:30 - 9:00 pm
22   Sister Keys/Longboat Key......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
24   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park.................................8:30 - 11:30 am
25   Bird Key/South Lido Park.......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am

September     
7    Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park.................................8:30 - 11:30 am
8    Bird Key/South Lido Park.......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
*12 Sunset/Moonlight Paddle.....................................................6:00 - 8:30 pm
*17 Sunset/Moonlight Paddle.....................................................6:00 - 8:30 pm
19   Stump Pass State Park.............................................8:30 - 11:30 am  $25 member, $30 non
21   Bird Key/South Lido Park......................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
22   Shell Key Preserve/Pinellas County...........................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
24   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park................................8:30 - 11:30 am

October  
12   Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park................................9 am - noon
13   Little Manatee River State Park...................................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
15   Waterways of Nokomis..........................................................9 am - noon
*16  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle....................................................5:30 - 8:00 pm
*17  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle....................................................5:30 - 8:00 pm
19  Myakka State Park.....................................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
20  Bird Key/South Lido Park..........................................................8:30 - 11:30 am
23  Palma Sola Bay/Robinson Preserve.............................10 am - 2 pm  $30 member, $35 non
27  Myakka State Park.....................................................................8:30 - 11:30 am  

NOTE:   November Preview - Myakka Daze!!! All-day trip down the Myakka River. $50 or $30 with your own boat.  Call John for details @ 941-966-7308

Friday, July 19, 2013

Blue World TV

http://www.blueworldtv.com/

2 WEEKS AWAY

Scallopolooze

Two Weeks Away!
Buy Your Tickets Today!




Friday, July 12, 2013

Scallopalooza 3 weeks away

Sarasota Bay Watch
Annual Fundraiser for Scallop Restoration

 
    When:      Saturday, August 3, 2013: 6pm cocktails (cash bar), 7pm dinner
       Where:   
Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL
       Tickets:   $85 per person includes dinner, entertainment, and auction
                        A limited number of tables: 10 persons for $750, 8 persons for $600
       Dress:     Coastal Casual


The Environmental Protection Agency's Gulf of Mexico Program recently awarded Sarasota Bay Watch the Gulf Guardian Award for our scallop restoration project, a ten year intiative to boost the scallop population to a self-perpetuating level. For the past two years with the support of the community, SBW has raised funds at Scallopalooza to enable us to distributed 24 million scallop larvae into Sarasota Bay's seagrass beds. Now in our 3rd year, SBW carries out what Fish and Wildlife Research Scientists consider to be
"the most aggressive scallop restoration in the state of Florida".

Bring your friends and meet new ones at Scallopalooza to celebrate our Gulf Guardian award and raise funds for continued scallop restoration efforts. Join Sarasota Bay Watch and share in this committment to our community.

 
Buy Your Tickets Today!

Monday, July 1, 2013

Trouble Finds Skimmer Chicks by LOU NEWMAN

Please check out Lou Newman's website at http://www.lounewmanphotography.com/other_gal/index.htm    There are many, many more spectacular photos of seashore flora and fauna.
LNX1_6984_2013-06-30_LBK_4X6SS.jpg

Friday, June 28, 2013

Tarpon Pointe Grill & Tiki Bar

 I'm going to try this and report back:
http://tarponpointegrill.com/

Boating on the Braden River with Dave


Sarasota: John Sarkozy kayak events

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

52nd Annual Meeting of the American Littoral Society

52nd Annual Meeting of the American Littoral Society
Cape May, NJ
October 25-27, 2013

   Set in one of the most beautiful coastal communities on the Atlantic, we will enjoy the ocean front views from the La Mer Beachfront Inn (www.capemaylamer.com), and venture out into the natural areas of what has been called "one of the last best places" for bird watching, whale watching and surf fishing clinics. Cape May is internationally recognized as one of the most important migratory bird stop overs in the world, and Delaware Bay is designated a RAMSAR Wetland of International Significance, home to horseshoe crabs, sturgeon and other fascinating marine life.

Our staff naturalists will lead day field trips and night time star and owl walks, discussions and demonstrations to introduce you to the wonderful coastal life of Cape May and the Delaware Bay, and presentations on the work the American Littoral Society is doing to care for the coast here.
 
We will be participating in a bird banding demonstration by researchers studying migratory hawks, go looking for migrating whales traveling past Cape May on their way back to warmer waters, and have an opportunity to learn the secrets of surf casting right from the beach in front of the hotel!



   And remember - dolphins are often seen right from the rooms of the La Mer

The weekend is informal, a time to catch up with old friends and meet new ones, as you explore and learn about the coast in this special place. Don't miss out - we always discover something special! We look forward to seeing you.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Chick Crossing

This sign is on the edge of a seabird nesting area on south Lido Key off Sarasota.  A single rope around the area protects nests on the ground from those who can read.

Sunday, June 9, 2013

Beach Bug - not identified, yet
Some kind of beach beetle????
 

Friday, June 7, 2013

June/July 2013 Kayak Trips

 Call John at 941-966-7308 for info and reservations.

JUNE
     1  Myakka River/Snook Haven  8:30am – 11:30am
     2  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am – 11:30am
     5  Sister Key/Longboat Key  9am – noon
     8  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am – 11:30am
   22  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am – 11:30am
   23  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am  - 11:30am
   27  Waterways of Nokomis  8:30am – 11:30am
   29  Little Manatee River State Park   9am – 1pm  $30 mem - $35 non-mem
JULY
     4    Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am – 11:30am
     6    Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am – 11:30am
     7   Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am – 11:30am
   10  Stump Pass St Pk  8:30am – 11:30am   $25 mem - $30 non-mem
  *17  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm – 9:30pm
  *18  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm – 9:30pm
   20  Shell Key Preserve/Pinellas Co  9am -1pm  $30 mem - $35 non-mem
   21  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am – 11:30am
   24  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Pk  8:30am – 11:30am
   31  Casperson Beach/Lemon Bay  8:30am – 11:30am

Mote's Oceans Day in Sarasota

http://www.ticketsarasota.com/2013/06/03/motes-world-oceans-day-in-sarasota/
- Herald Tribune online

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Cortez fishing village guide

http://www.ticketsarasota.com/slideshow/cortez-fishing-village-guide-florida/

Hurricane info from LOU NEWMAN (lenewman@comcast.net)

Tropical Storm Andrea is knocking the heck out of our nesting shorebirds.  As an example of the damage:  I went out to the beach to a colony of nesting shorebirds I have been watching and photographing for the last few weeks.  The high tide, large waves, surf, 45 mph winds and heavy rain had taken a heavy toll.  The Snowy Plover scrape (these birds scrape out a depression in the sand, call it a “nest” and lay their eggs in it) which was due to hatch any day, had been washed over and was gone. 

The Black Skimmers have been courting and “nesting” for a couple of weeks, so most of them had eggs in their scrapes, but would not have started hatching for another two weeks.  There were about 100 scrapes; today after high tide I could count only 30 skimmers that were high enough on the beach to still be on scrapes and there were eggs all over the place in the wrack line on the beach.  Those 30 skimmers were really hunkered down in their scrapes, but they looked pretty miserable.  Many of the rest of the birds were hunkered down up in the dunes away from the surf and somewhat protected from the wind, blowing sand and rain by the dunes and vegetation.

There were about 25 Least Terns on scrapes, several with chicks (varying in age from 1 day to 3 weeks).  Last count was 14 chicks.  Today there were no scrapes left and I could find only 8 chicks.  Six of the chicks were older chicks and seemed likely to make it; there was one mid-size chick and one very young/small chick that I watched make its way up from the wrack line to a waiting parent that tucked him under her wing.  They gradually made their way to the protection of the dunes and vegetation growing in/on the dunes.

Even though I had on boots and rain gear, I was soaked to the skin when I got home.  Needless to say, I did not attempt to take my camera onto the beach.  A significant portion of a second colony of Black Skimmers that numbered over 300 birds and had perhaps 80 to 100 birds on scrapes was washed over by tide and surf.  I counted about 40 skimmers that were high enough on the beach that they were still on scrapes.  It is going to be interesting to see if these colonies survive and note whether the birds that lost their scrapes/eggs will renest and lay more eggs (and whether we get any more tropical storms/hurricanes before they can fledge their chicks).  All of the scrapes and eggs in a second colony of Least Terns were completely wiped out by tide and surf; however, the roughly nine chicks in this colony had been predated earlier in the week so there were no chick casualties or survivors.  The likely culprits include house cats let loose at night, feral cats, raccoons, crows, gulls, yellow-crowned night herons and ghost crabs.  People and dogs that get too close cause the birds to fly which leaves the unprotected eggs and chicks vulnerable to these predators.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Friday, May 10, 2013

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Photos?

My camera is not working.
Please email me a few SHORELINE photos to post,
   marinell3@comcast.net

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

More Habitat Means More Fish





MoreHabitatReportCover 


New report highlights positive impacts of habitat restoration on conservation and economy

For many years the American Littoral Society has been at the forefront of habitat restoration in our region. We are restoring oysters and the habitat their reefs provide in Barnegat Bay and Delaware Bay. We are promoting and implementing "Living Shorelines" throughout New Jersey--an innovative technique to restore shallow water habitats while controlling shoreline erosion. Our large-scale scale salt marsh restoration in Jamaica Bay is well under way. All of this work is designed to strengthen fisheries and support the industries (and people) that rely upon them.

A new report, More Habitat Means More Fish, makes a compelling case for this special relationship between habitat and healthy commercial and recreational fisheries. It was released earlier today by Restore America's Estuaries (RAE) and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) and co-authored with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Key Findings  

More Habitat Means More Fish is packed with real life examples of coastal habitat restoration projects that have been implemented around the U.S. and the positive impact they have had including:
  • Over 75 percent of our nation's commercial fish catch and 80-90 percent of the recreational fish catch depend on key estuary habitat at some point in their lifecycle.
  • Fish populations can respond quickly to habitat improvement and the impact will last over an extended period of time. Rebounds in fish populations can occur within months and persist for years.
  • Since 2000, in Massachusetts and New York, herring, shad and sturgeon have doubled and tripled in population due to habitat restoration projects.
ALS Logo
Sandy Recovery Connection
Coastal habitat restoration has become doubly important in our post-Sandy recovery period and our voice is the loudest advocating for including habitat restoration in NJ and NY recovery plans. Restored habitats such as oyster reefs, natural shorelines and restored tidal marshes can contribute to the overall resilience to storms and help reduce hazards. These benefits, coupled with the economic benefits to our fisheries and the industries supported by healthy, restored, fisheries habitats,  make it crystal clear that restoration of fisheries habitats should be a priority in our recovery from Sandy.

Restored habitats can help protect our communities and support the health of our fisheries, and the communities that depend on them.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Hands Across the Sand

Volunteer needs are many: outreach, posting flyers, phone banking, organizing bike rides/bus rides/EV drivers, site captains, petition gathering, event set-up/break-down, media, tabling, etc. Volunteer responsibilities can be tailored to your time, talents, and temperament! 

Please join us for an organizational meeting next Tuesday for more information:
WHAT: Hands Across the Sand volunteer meeting 
WHEN: Tuesday, May 7, 2013 6:00 pm
WHERE: The Coffee Loft
              5025 N. Tamiami Trail
           Sarasota, Fl 34234 [get directions]

**If you can't make this meeting and would still like to volunteer, please let us know. We'll make other arrangements to get you the information you need. 

Hands Across the Sand is a movement of people of from walks of life. It is not about politics - it is about the protection of our coastal economies, oceans, marine wildlife and fisheries. It’s about preserving our precious drinking water, air, and food. The damage that continues to happen due to offshore oil drilling accidents, hydraulic fracturing, the Alberta tar sands, mountain top removal mining, and the continuing proliferation of coal fired power plants are a threat to us all. Visit the Hands Across the Sand website for more information.

Monday, April 29, 2013

Sarasota Bay Watch - 2013 Sister Keys Clean Up


Join Sarasota Bay Watch, the Town of Longboat Key,
Kathleen D Sailing Charters and the Chiles Group for the
2013 Sister Keys Clean Up.

WHERE:
The Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant 760 Broadway Street, Longboat Key

WHEN:
Saturday May 11, 2013  

 Sign Up starts at 8:00am at the Mar Vista Restaurant, 760 Broadway Street, North Longboat Key. Participants limited to 75. Clean Up starts at 9:00am and ends at 11:30pm with a complimentary lunch following at the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant.

Sunday, April 28, 2013

South Lido Kayak Launch

On the southeast side of Lido Key, there is a mangrove forest.  The entry road leads to a tunnel in the mangroves where kayaks can launch.  Many outfitters have kayaks for rent. There are kayak trails through the tunnels.  A busy weekend can see many outfitters and many kayakers in evidence.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Bud Doyle's Beach Walk Tally

10 years of beach walks and programs
averaging 30 walks per year, 
averaging 25 folks per walk.
 that's around 7,500 people !!!

Thank you, BUD DOYLE,

Casey Key is FUN





Friday, April 19, 2013

Littoral Society - Sarasota Field Trips


Spring - Summer 2013
  
  

Sarasota County on the west coast of Florida boasts some of the most amazing coastal flora, fauna, and habitat in the U.S.  Our Southeast Chapter offers a variety of ways to observe and learn about them. We offer kayaking, guided beach walks, seining, and eco-tours at various times throughout the year. This spring we have one last trip aboard the carefree learner next week and a host of kayak trips to carry you through the summer.

Eco-Tours Aboard the Carefree Learner
 Get hands-on fun and learn up close about the critters of Sarasota Bay with our expert naturalists and educators. Also see amazing nesting bird life. The boat is small and provides a great experience for people of all ages. The Carefree Learner tours are on Wednesdays at 1 to 3 pm departing from Bayfront Park next to Le Barge, near the Ringling circle. Members $15, Non-members $20, kids (12 and under) $10. 
April 24, Contact Loyola at 206-484-7092 -  Last Chance to enjoy this great on-the- water activity until January 2014!

Quiet Water Kayaking
Enjoy leisurely paddling and observation at a variety of sites difficult to visit by any other means. Kayak, paddles, life vest, etc. supplied. If you haven't used a kayak before, a short training session before the trip will get you going. Members can bring their own kayak and life vests and participate for a $5 donation to the Society. Otherwise, most trips cost $20 for members, $25 for non-members. Trips usually run 3 to 4 hours.

May
     2  Historic Cortez/Kitchen Preserve  10am  - 1pm
     4  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Point Park  9am - noon
     5  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am - 11:30am
     8  Palma Sola Bay/Robinson Preserve 10am-2pm   $30 mem-$35 non-mem
   16  Waterways of Nokomis  9am - noon
   19  Blackburn Pt/Oscar Scherer State Park  8:30am - noon
 *21 Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm - 9:30pm
 *22 Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm - 9:30pm
  26 Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am - 11:30am
  29  Stump Pass State Park  9am - noon  $25 mem - $30 non-mem
 
June
     1  Myakka River/Snook Haven  8:30am - 11:30am
     2  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am - 11:30am
     5  Sister Key/Longboat Key  9am - noon
     8  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am - 11:30am
   22  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am - 11:30am
   23  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am  - 11:30am
   27  Waterways of Nokomis  8:30am - 11:30am
   29  Little Manatee River State Park   9am - 1pm  $30 mem - $35 non-mem
 
July
     4    Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am - 11:30am
     6    Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Park  8:30am - 11:30am
     7   Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am - 11:30am
   10  Stump Pass St Pk  8:30am - 11:30am   $25 mem - $30 non-mem
 *17  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm - 9:30pm
 *18  Sunset/Moonlight Paddle  7pm - 9:30pm
   20  Shell Key Preserve/Pinellas Co  9am -1pm  $30 mem - $35 non-mem
   21  Bird Key/South Lido Park  8:30am - 11:30am
   24  Little Sarasota Bay/Palmer Pt Pk  8:30am - 11:30am
   31  Casperson Beach/Lemon Bay  8:30am - 11:30am
 

Monday, March 25, 2013

American Littoral Society Events


MONTAUK SPRING WEEKEND
JUNE 7-9, 2013
    
     Always a trip worth taking. Start with an orientation and slide show on Friday night. This is peak orchid and heather blossom time. Activities include: hiking, birding, tide pools, butterflies, rocky cliffs, a visit to Montauk Light and an optional whale watch.

   The Montauk Manor is a perfect place to stay after a long, cold winter with its well-appointed rooms, restaurant, hot tub, and pool. You will enjoy vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and be able to take walks around the grounds. Leaders:Don Riepe and Mickey Cohen

Cost: $385 includes 5 meals, 2 evening programs, a star watch and 2 nights at Montauk Manor. Send deposit of $100 per person to Don Riepe, ALS, 28 W. 9th Rd, Broad Channel, NY 11693 by April 30, 2013.


RHODE ISLAND/BLOCK ISLAND
STRIPED BASS TAGGING WEEKEND
JUNE 8 - 9, 2013

   Join our tagging director for a weekend of striped bass tagging; fishing the rocky coast of Rhode Island and the rips of Block Island. We will be fishing with the American Littoral Society's most prolific and successful tagger, Captain Al Anderson of Narragansett, Rhode Island, aboard his boat, "The Prowler", Sailing from the port of Galilee, RI, right next to the ferry to Block Island. The Prowler is a 42 ft. North Carolina Custom Express twin diesel sportfisherman with a cabin, tower and full electronics.
  
   Captain Al, who has recently been inducted into the IGFA Hall of Fame; has been stalking and tagging stripers in Rhode Island Waters for over 40 years and has tagged and released well over 50,000 gamefish during that time.

   The trip is limited to 6 anglers for the weekend, with an all-day fishing trip both Saturday and Sunday. All bait, tackle, and tags will be provided. Bring your surf fishing gear along, as there will be opportunities to experience some of Rhode Island's great shoreline fishing as well.

   On Saturday the party will meet for a late lunch (Dutch treat) at a local seafood restaurant. After lunch we will visit the Point Judith light house, and take a stroll out to Black Rock on Narragansett Bay.

Cost:
$275 - ALS Member
$325 - Non Member
Price includes all costs for 2 fishing trips and tags, as well as a signed copy of Capt. Al's latest book, "Island Stripers". Anglers are responsible for their own lodging and meals. Call Jeff at (732) 291-0055 for more information.


New trip
COLUMBIS RIVER GORGE, MT. ST. HELENS, and the PACIFIC END of the LEWIS & CLARK TRAIL
JULY 18-27, 2013.

     A fascinating gorge described as a "Top ten scenic wonder" plus Mt. St. Helens and Lewis and Clark history, what could be better? We will have a leisurely exploration of some dramatic and varied scenery from the amazing river that separates Washington State from Oregon (and spends a significant part of its length in Canada) to the explosive remnants of St. Helens to the windswept coast. Along the way we will learn about and enjoy the fascinating human and natural history. This is a rather different part of the northwest from the rainy Olympic coastline farther north and you will be surprised by the dryness of the interior versus the rugged marine environment. Mammals, birds, and wild flowers will brighten each day. Leader:  Bob Quinn

Cost: $1985 per person (double occupancy- $385 single supplement) includes lodging, most meals, ground transportation, guides, and all entrance fees. Not included- airfare.. Please send a deposit of $250 per person to Highlands address by April 15, 2013.   This trip begins and ends in Portland, OR.


CAPE ANN WHALE WATCH WEEKEND
AUGUST 15-18, 2013

     Gloucester and the surrounding areas are filled with beautiful shorelines and bays teeming with bird life. On your way up stop off at The Butterfly Place just off Rt. 495 (exit 34). There will be leisurely canoeing on the Ipswich River, a half-day whale watch trip where we hope to also see dolphins and seals, a sunset river cruise along the Essex River, and birding at the Parker River Wildlife Refuge. Leader: Don Riepe

Cost: $385 per person ($120 single supplement) includes lodging, lobster dinner, guides, park and boat fees. Limit: 20. A deposit of $50 by June 15, 2013.


MONHEGAN ISLAND, MAINE
SEPTEMBER 23-27, 2013

     For the naturalist Monhegan is a major site for fall migration, often with hordes of tired land birds hopping about in the open. Such odd spectacles as warblers flitting through the tide wrack or a Black-billed Cuckoo perching on a lobster pot can be common sights.

    On one day we will venture out by boat in search of sea birds such as puffins, shearwaters, gannets, phalaropes, and maybe a whale or two. Monhegan is a gem of the rocky coast of Maine and one of the most enchanting islands on the entire east coast. Its combination of beauty and quiet island life will entrance you and it can be as relaxing or as invigorating as you wish. It creates a sense of serenity, from the calm harbor with beautiful sunsets to the pounding surf against the craggy eastern cliffs, through the beautiful Cathedral Woods with its elfin inhabitants.

     Our inn is quite nice and has a commanding view of the harbor and the ocean. We will do a lot of walking and exploring of the island's varied habitats; some moderately vigorous hiking and early morning bird walks will be optional. There is something special about Monhegan, even by island standards, and this short trip is a perfect chance for you to experience that magic. Leaders: Bob Quinn and Phil Brown

Cost: $1195 (Single supplement $295) includes lodging, ferry, boat trip, guides, and most meals. Group Size: Max 14. . Send a deposit of $150 per person to Highlands address by May 15, 2013.


CALIFORNIA'S NORTH COAST: Redwood National Park, Crater Lake National Park, and the Klamath Basin
OCTOBER 13-22, 2013

     The Redwoods, tallest trees in the world, tower above the mist-shrouded shoreline. Huge Pacific waves crash upon massive sea stacks and coastal headlands while countless flocks of sea birds migrate south. This is the dramatic and isolated northern California coast. Del Norte county is more like the true Pacific Northwest than the rest of California and it has abundant wildlife and scenery, without the crowds. Besides the magnificent Redwoods we hope to see mammals such as California Sea Lions and Roosevelt Elk plus one of the largest concentrations of water birds in all of North America.

     We'll also spend several days in southern Oregon, including a day at the spectacular Crater Lake National Park- with it's almost unbelievably blue volcanic lake. Other sites will include Lava Beds National Monument and the Klamath Basin National Wildlife refuges, all in habitats vastly different from the coast. This is a wonderful time of year to explore an exciting and unique, yet little visited, part of our continent. Leader: Bob Quinn

Cost: $2185 per person (double occupancy- $385 single supplement) includes lodging, most meals, ground transportation, guides, and all entrance fees. Not included- airfare. Send a deposit of $300 per person to Highlands address by June 15, 2013.


ANNUAL MEETING - CAPE MAY, NJ
OCTOBER 24-27, 2013

   Once all details have been finalized this site will contain all the information needed to sign up. We will also be sending out the a form tat can be sent in to our Highlands office in our publication "Littorally Speaking" later in the year. There will be no separate form sent so please check our website for details around the middle of April. There will be limited rooms available. If interested please contact Pat by phone or email.


ASSATEAGUE FALL WEEKEND
NOVEMBER 7-10, 2013

The Assateague Wildlife Refuge is always in season to enjoy!

     The peak fall migration is beginning at one of the best birding spots on the east coast. We're likely to see snow geese, widgeons, teals, ruddy ducks, eagles, Sika deer, the endangered Delmarva fox squirrel, wild ponies and if we're lucky, maybe red fox and otters. On Sunday follow us north to Bombay Hook, where at sunset, we'll stop to watch and listen as up to 20,000 snow geese come in to roost. Leader: Don Riepe

Cost: $385 per person (180 single supplement) includes lodging, guides, lectures, and a par excellent seafood buffet on Saturday night. Limit: 20. Send a deposit of $100 per person by August 1.