The 4th Bay Area Scientific Information Symposium (BASIS), is slated for October 27-30 at the Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort in St. Petersburg. The conference will highlight advances in scientific understanding of the problems affecting Tampa Bay - and innovative solutions to those problems -- since the last BASIS conference was held five years ago. Area scientists, managers and citizens are invited to attend this comprehensive conference, which will feature sessions on water quality, habitat restoration, fish and wildlife conservation, and invasive species. Click here for the latest agenda and registration information.

In conjunction with BASIS, a separate citizens’ component, called “Estuary Academy”” will showcase how scientists measure and protect the health of Tampa Bay in a series of engaging lectures, fields trips and interactive learning stations. Participants will learn about key biological indicators used to assess the bay’s health - including seagrasses, marine mammals and wading birds -- and have a chance to peer through microscopes in “lab class,” learn about edible native plants on a nature walk, or build their own miniature Remote Operated Vehicle with which to explore the bay from an underwater perspective.

All “graduates” of Estuary Academy will receive a certificate, t-shirt and a goodie bag filled with unique, eco-friendly items.

“Estuary Academy” will take place from 9 am - 3 pm at the Weedon Island Preserve Environmental Education Center. Registration fee of $10 covers lunch and all activities. To reserve your place, contact Nanette Holland at nanette@tbep.org or call her at (727) 893-2765.