Restoring Estero Bay’s Ecosystem Through Sustainable Marine Life Recovery

Protecting What’s Wild – from the Estuary to the Everglades.

Welcome to the Ecological Research & Action Foundation

Established in 2005, the Ecological Research & Action Foundation, Inc. (ERAF) restores and protects Southwest Florida’s critical ecosystems.

We actively address severe ecological threats affecting Estero Bay, such as nutrient pollution from agricultural runoffs, toxic red tide algae blooms, hurricane impacts, and ongoing habitat degradation from coastal development and erosion. Simultaneously, ERAF secures crucial inland habitats needed by the endangered Florida Panther, combating habitat loss due to urban sprawl and inadequate wildlife infrastructure.

Private funding from eDist’s leadership, strategic partnerships, and evidence-based scientific research drive our mission to build ecological resilience and preserve Florida’s unique biodiversity.

Estero Bay Restoration

Estero Bay faces multiple ecological threats:

Nutrient Pollution

Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural & overdevelopment runoff cause harmful algae blooms, significantly deteriorating water quality.

Red Tide Blooms

Naturally occurring but intensified by pollution, these harmful algal blooms devastate marine life, tourism, and public health.

Habitat Degradation

Coastal development, erosion, and loss of mangroves disrupt critical habitats for marine wildlife.

Our Restoration Solutions Include:

Native Fish Hatchery

Cultivation of Snook, Redfish, oysters, and clams to restore marine populations and enhance water quality.

Habitat Restoration

Active seeding of oyster reefs and clam beds, systematic monitoring of seagrass health, and stabilization of mangrove shorelines.

Marine Mammal Protection

Restoration and maintenance of healthy habitats for manatees and dolphins.