133 Scallops found in the 2020 DIY Great Bay Scallop Search

26th Annual citizen science event was do-it-yourself this yearThank you to the 36 teams who participated in the 2020 DIY Great Bay Scallop Search! Volunteer boaters and kayakers snorkeled in Lower Tampa Bay on their own time to find a grand total of 133 scallops. This year’s number is the highest that we’ve seen since 2015 despite the torrential rains prior to the event which affected the total count. Additionally many participants commented on poor visibility and seeing many fresh half shells of recently expired scallops.  Bart Valdes’ team found the most scallops with 42. Bart states, “My family and I had a great day on the water finding 42 scallops which was a record for us. I appreciate that the event was still able to take place in a safe way and am happy to support the mission of Tampa Bay Watch.” A special thanks to our sponsors SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program who supported the event. 

CapMel Staff
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