Sarasota Bay has made a comeback.
Environmental advocates see a much healthier estuary than a decade ago. Restored seagrass coverage and reduced nitrogen levels have led to a clearer, cleaner waterbody between Longboat Key and Sarasota. It’s a big deal for a region where tourists keep the economy humming and waterfront property values start in the millions.
“Most people live in this area because of its natural environment, and they want to see a healthy waterway,” said Justin Bloom, Suncoast Waterkeeper founder and board vice chair. “We’re a real estate and tourism-based economy in many ways, and if you take away our high-quality natural environment, those real estate prices and tourist dollars decline.”…