Horseback Riding Tours Pause at Palma Sola Bay Amid Bacteria Study
Horseback riding along Palma Sola Bay has long been a popular attraction for visitors and residents, but those tours are on hold this month as scientists investigate potential links between horses and high bacteria levels in the water.
The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP), working with Suncoast Waterkeeper, recently conducted DNA testing along the Palma Sola Causeway. Results revealed traces of horse DNA at several locations, though the amounts were too small to measure. Weekly water sampling by Suncoast Waterkeeper has also shown spikes in bacteria, though experts emphasize that horses are only one of several possible contributors. Bird waste and decaying vegetation have also been identified as potential sources.
Following a presentation of preliminary results to Bradenton’s City Council, horseback riding vendors voluntarily agreed to suspend operations from September 8 through October 6. City officials noted the decision was not mandated but offered by the businesses to allow more time for data collection.
Operators, however, have voiced frustration, arguing that their industry is being unfairly singled out. They point to decaying seaweed and other environmental factors as more likely causes of bacteria spikes and say the pause places financial strain on employees and families who depend on the work.
Environmental advocates have stressed that the pause is not about banning horses but about ensuring long-term water quality. SBEP will continue sampling during the suspension period and provide updates as results come in. Tours are expected to resume on October 6.
