Some initial action items are recommended to increase the chances of our bay being selected:
- Increase awareness of the Estuary Program initiative in our communities
- Generate support for the St. Andrew Bay watershed being designated as the first Gulf of Mexico Estuary Program
- Identify and secure a host for the program (done - FSU Panama City)
- Pass resolutions in support of a St. Andrew/St. Joe Bays estuary program (see link to Bay County Board of County Commissioners resolution (PDF))
- Pass Agreement to Participate (example document being drafted)
- Agree to sign on to collaborate and act in good faith
- Agree to identify the goals of the program in collaboration with others
- Agree to contribute funds and/or in-kind support for technical work
- Agree to stay science-based
- Compile list of stakeholders (names and contact information)
Interested Individuals & Organizations
Interested people/organizations can ask to be put on the Estuary Program Interested Parties List by sending an email to with the subject line "Subscribe Estuary Program." (Please note that Florida has a very broad Public Records Law. Most written communications to or from State and Local Officials regarding State or Local business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Your email communications may therefore be subject to public disclosure.)