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A domed tribute to fishery advocate

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By JAMIE PILARCZYK

jpilarczyk@tampatrib.com

Published: April 22, 2009

BALLAST POINT - On a warm afternoon in view of downtown Tampa, about 50 people gathered at Ballast Point Park to pay tribute to their friend, family member and fellow fisherman.

Last week's dedication came about six months after Mike Flynn, 64, died of pancreatic cancer.

"It's such a great tribute," said his wife, Sally Flynn. "Mike would just be amazed."

The memorial at Ballast Point Park is an "oyster dome" overlooking Hillsborough Bay, a symbol of the effort he spearheaded with Tampa Bay Watch and the Coastal Conservation Association to place oyster domes in Hillsborough Bay next to Bayshore Boulevard, Ballast Point Park and MacDill Air Force Base.

The dome structures attract oysters that help filter water in shallow areas at edges of the bay. They reduce erosion and provide habitat for small fish.

Peter Clark, founder and executive director of Tampa Bay Watch, said Flynn was the epitome of a community and environmental activist, leaving a legacy with his oyster domes.

"As you look around Tampa Bay, there is a lot of Mike Flynn helping restore fishery habitats," Clark said.

Reporter Jamie Pilarczyk can be reached at (813) 259-7661.

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