More than 60 volunteers with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) Bay Guardians planted nearly 6,000 Florida-native plants on Saturday at Jiggs Landing. The volunteers included 26 students from the Louise R. Johnson Middle School of International Studies in Bradenton.
Jiggs Landing is located on the Ever’s Reservoir in Manatee County. The property was originally purchased in 1944. The popular fishing camp has undergone extensive renovations and was re-opened to the public in late 2010. Jiggs Landing has a boat ramp with access to the Braden River and other amenities include picnic areas, boardwalks, a concession stand, dock, nature-themed playground, and wildlife viewing areas. Two pavilions are also available for daily rentals through Manatee County Natural Resources.
The SBEP Bay Guardians are the largest and most active volunteer program in the region focused on Sarasota Bay. The award-winning volunteer program is managed by SBEP in partnership with Around the Bend Nature Tours. New volunteers receive a blue tee shirt featuring the Bay Guardians logo. Each outing features environmental education and a picnic lunch. Join the Bay Guardians for a single project or as an ongoing commitment. Local school, scout and church groups interested in volunteering should contact Sara Kane at sara@sarasotabay.org.
