Dr. David Tomasko to Join SBEP as Executive Director

David Tomasko
David Tomasko

The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) is announcing a transition in leadership following the retirement of SBEP Executive Director Mark Alderson, who has served in the position since SBEP’s inception in 1989. On November 9, 2020, Dr. David Tomasko will join SBEP as Executive Director.

Dr. Tomasko brings more than 30 years of experience in water quality assessments and the development of science-based natural resource plans in the Gulf of Mexico and international locations. He holds a Ph.D. in biology from the University of South Florida, a Master of Science in marine biology from the Florida Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Old Dominion University. Dr. Tomasko joins SBEP from Environmental Science Associates (ESA) in Tampa, FL.

“I am looking forward to working with SBEP to build on their long-standing efforts to protect and restore the health of Sarasota Bay,” said Dr. Tomasko. Together with local stakeholders and policy makers, we can secure a healthy and resilient bay for residents and visitors, as well as for future generations.”

Mark Alderson will embark on his well-earned retirement in December after a career of public service in the name of the environment. In his 30-year career with SBEP, Mark led multiple successful habitat restoration projects, directed the creation of the Gulf Coast Heritage Trail, supported the development of public outreach and education programs, and alongside the SBEP partnership was honored with a 2009 Gulf Guardian Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for historic seagrass recovery in Sarasota Bay.

Please join SBEP in thanking Mark Alderson and welcoming Dave Tomasko!