Sarasota Bay SWIM Plan Update
The Surface Water Improvement and Management, or SWIM, program evaluates priority water bodies, identifies challenges and implements projects to improve water quality and natural systems. The District is currently updating the SWIM plan for Sarasota Bay and the draft plan is below:
Public Workshop
The District is having an in-person public workshop on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Bay Preserve Carriage House. District staff will present an overview of the draft SWIM plan update and the public will have an opportunity to give comments about the draft SWIM plan.
For more details about the public workshop, visit the District calendar.
Submit Public Comments Online
Online comments about the draft Sarasota Bay SWIM Plan update will be accepted through Sept. 24, 2025. Click here to submit your comments for District staff review.
Highlights
- Designated an “Estuary of National Significance” in 1987
- Surface area of approximately 52 square miles
- Includes Manatee and Sarasota counties
- 150-square-mile watershed
Challenges
Three main challenges exist in the Sarasota Bay watershed:
- Alteration and loss of coastal uplands and wetlands due to development
- Spread of non-native animal and plant species
- Degraded water quality from non-point source pollutant and nutrient loading
Strategies
Through cooperation with other government agencies, these challenges are met by:
- Developing a comprehensive conservation and management plan
- Restoring the balance between coastal upland, wetland, and intertidal habitats
- Implementing water quality improvement projects
Success Indicators
Successful project implementation is indicated by:
- Improved water quality
- Increased hydroperiods
- Increased coverage of seagrasses within the Bay
- Reduction/removal of non-native terrestrial and wetland species
- Increased wildlife use
Future goals are then developed through an adaptive management process, always striving to help restore Florida’s natural ecosystems.