Roots & Shoots By the Bay

Students will organize native habitat restoration events within the Tampa Bay watershed. As part of their outreach, they will design and distribute educational pamphlets highlighting the importance of native plants, strategic planting, and the benefits that healthy habitats provide to coastal communities. In addition, students will create interpretive signage to inform visitors about the vital ecological functions of native habitats.

Through three student-led outreach events, students will engage directly with boaters at marinas, boat slips, and other coastal access points. Their goal is to promote “seagrass-safe” boating practices to help prevent seagrass scarring, reduce manatee injuries, and minimize marine pollution.