30th Annual Great Bay Scallop Search

Grab your mask and help protect the bay! TBEP and Tampa Bay Watch are is rallying snorkelers, boaters, and kayakers to join the 30th Annual Great Bay Scallop Search on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9 a.m to 12 p.m.

Since 1993, this community science event has been a cornerstone of our efforts to monitor and document the health and status of the local bay scallop population. Scallops are an important indicator of water quality and ecosystem health. Each year brings different results, influenced by factors like water quality, red tide, rainfall, storms, and predation.

Volunteer snorkelers and boaters will search sites within Middle Tampa Bay, Lower Tampa Bay, and  Boca Ciega Bay. Citizen scientists snorkel over seagrass beds, recording scallop sightings to help track long-term trends.

Whether you’re interested in science or simply looking for a fun day on the water with family, it’s a great way to spend a Saturday. Register at https://tampabaywatch.org/scallop-search/.