SCCF’s Sanibel Sea School recently hosted a guided paddling trip to Picnic Island! Participants launched from Dixie Beach Road and enjoyed a mild morning paddling across the bay to access the remote island. The trip was guided by Marine Science Educator Austin Wise and Adult Education Director Jenny Evans.

Once on the island, guests explored a seagrass bed with dip and seine nets. They caught baby blue crabs, comb jellies, needlefish, and even a dwarf seahorse to learn about before they were safely returned to the gulf waters. Educators highlighted the importance of seagrass habitats and the threats they currently face. “Seagrass plays many important roles in its shallow water ecosystem. It is an efficient oxygen producer via photosynthesis.” says Marine Science Educator, Austin. “Just as terrestrial plants produce oxygen that us humans are able to breathe, seagrass does the same for the many fish and other species that obtain their oxygen from the water. In addition to this, seagrass provides a safe habitat for countless species, including crabs, seahorses, pipefish, snails and juvenile fish.” To wrap up an educational and fun morning, paddlers spotted dolphins and manatees swimming in the bay! 

Are you interested in joining a guided paddle trip? Join us on April 10 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m.! 

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