Volunteer Spotlight: Gus Larussa

At the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, we depend on our dedicated volunteers to help us create a fun and meaningful learning experience for visitors. Meet Gus Larussa, who shares his love of Tampa Bay at our touch tank every week. Be sure to say hello the next time you see him on the Pier.

Will you tell us a little bit about yourself and your connection to Tampa Bay?

I was born in Tampa and used to go crabbing at night at Courtney Campbell Causeway. I also spent many summers at Clearwater Beach. I have seen the bay go from pristine in the 50's to unhealthy in the 60s, 70s and 80s. Since the 90s, the bay has really improved. I was looking for an organization that stressed community involvement and I read an article about Tampa Bay Watch. I thought, this is just what I want to do. I believe in investing your time, it’s our most important asset.

How long have you been a volunteer at Tampa Bay Watch? Which programs do you help with?

I have been a volunteer since 1997 and have participated in the following: The Great Bay Scallop Search, monofilament clean up, derelict crab trap removal, monofilament recycling tube collection, doing outreach, and now volunteering at the Discovery Center.

Best memory from your time as a volunteer?

My best memories are taking my nephews on the scallop count, saving a pelican who was tangled in monofilament in a tree, and receiving the Tampa Bay Watch volunteer award in 2018.

What is your favorite way to enjoy the bay?

My favorite way to enjoy the bay is to go out in my boat and fish, dive, snorkel, or just anchor off Egmont Key or Pinellas Point.

What is something everyone should know about Tampa Bay?

We are fortunate to live by Tampa Bay, it gives us opportunities for recreation and is an economic engine for the region.

If you could see any local animal on an eco vessel trip, what would it be?

I would like to see a sea turtle!

Thank you, Gus!