In support of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program works with partners within the scientific community to conduct research necessary to fill gaps in our knowledge base and to answer specific questions regarding the environmental health and status of Sarasota Bay. 

Current research includes:  mapping and trend analysis of valuable seagrass habitats throughout the system; causes, effects and ecological impacts of macroalgal blooms.  In 2009, in cooperation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Institute, the SBEP has begun a fisheries independent monitoring program to look at abundance, diversity and habitat utilization within the bay.

The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) periodically meets to review and update research priorities.  The TAC evaluates and approves all project proposals for scientific soundness and technical merit, and monitors their progress.  When projects are completed, and final reports reviewed and accepted, they are made available to the scientific community and general public on this website.