For the fifth session of Preserving Paradise — a water quality education program for regional business and community leaders — participants headed out on the water to enjoy an impact tour and fishing day in the Caloosahatchee Estuary.

SCCF is partnering with Captains for Clean Water, the Everglades Foundation, and the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce to lead the Preserving Paradise program, which is now in its second year.

On Oct. 7, the group met at Port Sanibel before splitting up with local fishing guides. Experts from the leading organizations joined each boat to provide teaching moments throughout the trip, such as the diverse species of fish found in the estuary, their habitat requirements, and the environmental threats that face maintaining clean water and sustainable fisheries.

“Building passionate advocacy starts with building personal relationships with the resources that we are fighting to protect,” said SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis. “Getting out on the water allows us all to take a moment to remember how special our slice of paradise is, and why it is worth saving.”

Over 20 business executives and organizational leaders are participating in Preserving Paradise, meeting every two weeks to explore our coastal ecosystems, share their experiences, and learn from scientists and professionals in the environmental field.

The next session will bring participants to the Everglades to learn about the importance of the Everglades to our water quality, wildlife, economies, and way of life.