A major effort to reorganize the process by which Florida manages its freshwater fisheries is the topic of a series of statewide summits being hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).  Through these summits, the FWC is inviting stakeholders to organize and team with the agency to help design and implement management plans that will have a major effect on Florida’s freshwater fisheries.

An online survey recently conducted by the Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management was the first step in establishing communications with anglers and other resource users, enabling us to document concerns and determine attitudes about our future direction,” said Dennis Renfro, FWC Summit Coordinator.

The response to the survey was overwhelming with over 1,500 constituents participating. In the past, stakeholders gave input and FWC staff...

implemented a plan.  In the new process stakeholders will partner with the agency to develop and implement plans jointly,” said Dave McElveen, FWC Planning Coordinator.

Issues covered in previous summits included slot limits, nuisance vegetation, habitat loss, canal spraying during spawning, tournament regulations, drawdowns, closed seasons and habitat restoration opportunities, among others.

This summit is the best way anglers can help direct government agencies dealing with a variety of often conflicting management goals. The final summit will be held this Saturday, January 21, at the IGFA, 3000 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach. To sign up, e-mail: freshwater.summit@myfwc.com.

FS