Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas oversees the management of Florida's 41 aquatic preserves, three National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR), one National Marine Sanctuary and the Coral Reef Conservation Program. These protected areas comprise more than 4 million acres of the most valuable submerged lands and select coastal uplands in Florida.

"Through Florida’s aquatic preserves, research reserves and national marine sanctuary, the state protects more than four million acres of submerged lands. These coastal and aquatic areas preserve wildlife habitats and protect waterways, while inviting residents and visitors to explore Florida’s natural environment."

Secretary Michael W. Sole

Come Test the Waters

Join the Water Quality Monitoring Network

At sunrise, volunteers grab their cups of coffee and head to the harbor to test the water. Once a month, these volunteers conduct water quality monitoring in six aquatic preserves in Charlotte Harbor. Forty-six sites are sampled for 14 parameters that help measure the health of the estuaries.

The data gathered helps determine baseline conditions which guide future management decisions. Samples are also taken to laboratories to be analyzed for chlorophyll levels, nitrogen and phosphorous, turbidity and fecal coliform bacteria.