Tarpon Bay Explorers Introduces Two of Its Experienced Naturalists
provided by Santiva Chronicle
Tarpon Bay Explorers is the official concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The company provides eco-tours and recreational activities via pontoon boat, kayak, Hobie kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard, bike and tram and has a fabulous nature gift shop. Tarpon Bay Explorers would like to introduce a few of their naturalists who are valued members of the Tarpon Bay team and have been providing excellent, enthusiastic and informative tours within the refuge for hundreds of island visitors.
Craig hails from Niles Michigan and moved to the area a couple years ago to escape the frozen north. Craig’s family has been visiting the island for close to thirty years and it did not take long for Craig to be charmed by island life. Currently an island resident, Craig spends a majority of his spare time fishing. His commitment to angling led him to buy his own Hobie fishing kayak which he takes back into the back bayous of “Ding” Darling quite often pursuing local sport fish like tarpon, redfish and snook.
Dick Anderson has worked and lived in Southwest Florida since 1979 and has been a naturalist with Tarpon Bay Explorers since 2016. Dick’s love of natural places led him to his current post at Tarpon Bay. His love of natural places in combination with his creativity has cultivated a hobby of what he calls “Dumpster Diving.” There is more to that term than meets the eye. Anderson’s creations are with repurposed material, most commonly driftwood. Many of Dick’s creations have been auctioned in CREW’s annual Concert Silent Auction where he is heavily involved.
Tarpon Bay Explorers invites the community to meet their family and experience the many adventures they have to offer. Open 7 days a week at 8 a.m., visit Tarpon Bay Explorers in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 900 Tarpon Bay Rd., Sanibel. Call 239-472-8900 for information and reservation or visit their website at www.tarponbayexplorers.com