For the fourth session of Preserving Paradise — a water quality education program for regional business leaders — participants headed out on the water to enjoy a fishing day on the Caloosahatchee River and in Pine Island Sound.

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 launched on Aug. 6.

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.

On Sept. 17, the group met at the Sanibel Marina 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.

The next session on Oct. 1 will bring participants to the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir to see and learn about one of the largest Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan projects up close and personal.