Tampa Bay was designated an “estuary of national significance” by Congress in 1990, laying the foundation for the creation of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) in 1991. TBEP's mission is to build partnerships to restore and protect Tampa Bay through implementation of a scientifically sound, community-based management plan. The plan reflects the evolving knowledge of bay processes and community needs and is focused on three central program priorities: Clean Waters and Sediments; Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife; and an Informed, Engaged and Responsible Community.
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