Goal 2: Fisheries: Create and Teach Production and Management Techniques That Make Fisheries Sustainable and Competitive

2.1 Florida’s recreational fisheries utilize 110+ species along the state’s 1,350 mile shoreline. A project was established in 2004 to provide Extension service to this sector. During 2007 the project will be modified due to the resignations of some of the key personnel in the original project. (Spranger: SGEP-13-FE-C)

2.2 Knowledge of shark migration routes and local movement patterns could contribute to beach safety management. Recent advances in electronic tagging technology make it possible to gather and store detailed information on swimming depth, water temperature, and a daily record of location that is uploadable to ARGOS satellites. Objectives of this research are to identify and characterize the seasonal migratory patterns of bull sharks in the northern and eastern Gulf of Mexico off Florida, identify and characterize their habitat use patterns, and determine survival rates and overall fitness of those caught by longline fishing. (Burgess : PD-05-4)

2.3 Many fisheries scientists throughout the southeast U.S. have been using passive acoustics to identify spawning habitat of sound-producing fishes. This study will determine whether sound analyses can yield quantitative data on the number of eggs spawned by black drum. It will serve as a test case that can be used as a model for future studies of other important species, such as red drum and spotted seatrout, where issues such as egg transport and egg identification may be more difficult. (2008) (Mann : R/LR-B-58)

2.4 This proposal aims to develop an approach to evaluate the essential nature of fish nursery habitat by linking nursery-specific juvenile production with eventual recruitment to adult habitat. This study will examine population dynamics specific to gray snapper, but also will establish a quantitative, process-oriented approach to assessing habitat value that could be applied to any finfish species with a bipartite life history that includes distinct nursery and adult habitats. (2008) (Patterson /McBride /Allman : R/LR-B-59)

2.5 Conservation of sharks in the U.S. and worldwide in the face of intensive exploitation to supply the international fin trade requires comprehensive management and trade monitoring. The goal of the project is to make possible shark conservation, management, and trade monitoring on a species and population-specific basis by providing a comprehensive, multi-genetic marker assessment of global population structure in fin-trade sharks, determining the population of origin of market derived shark fins, and elucidating shark mating systems. (2008) (Shivji : R/LR-B-60)

2.6 Continue to serve on the Scientific and Statistical Committee of the Gulf of Mexico Regional Fisheries Management Council. ( Adams )

2.7 Continue to develop educational programs designed to focus on the benefits associated with the use of fish venting tools. Will travel to Oregon in spring 2007 to present seminar on the topic and engage in field work with venting tools ( Adams w/Stevely and Sweat ).

2.8 Continue to serve as the Florida representative on the Southeast Regional Fisheries Extension Enhancement Committee. ( Adams )

2.9 Develop an annotated bibliography of studies involving release survival, release methods, techniques, etc for recreational targeted species, particularly in the Gulf and South Atlantic region. This bibliography will lead to an FSG brochure that summarizes the science-based benefits of utilizing the various release methods and techniques currently available to recreational anglers. Inventory of studies will take place in 2007. Brochure will be developed in 2008. (2007-08: Adams, Stevely, Simoniello).

2.10 Conduct a hands-on training session on the use of various methods to reduce release mortality in recreationally caught fish at the annual Florida Sea Grant Extension meeting that will be held in Cedar Key, Florida in October, 2007. ( Adams )

2.11 Conduct workshop for state fishery managers from Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina at the Waddell Mariculture Lab in January, 2007. The workshop will focus on current fisheries management issues and research needs common to the states within the region ( Adams w/Von Harten , Baker , and Liqori ).

2.12 Assess the economic impact of the commercial fishing/seafood industry on the Atlantic coast of Florida to the state economy (NMFS proposal pending) ( Adams w/Stevens and Mulkey ).

2.13 Develop a storm damage assessment/projection methodology for the trap fisheries in the Florida Keys (NMFS proposal pending) (Adams w/Gregory , Shivlani , and Murray ).

2.14 Begin FWC/WCIND-funded study to determine the economic impact of artificial reefs to the SW Florida economy. The study will assess the economic activities and local impacts of artificial reefs in the Collier-Pinellas Counties region ( Adams w/Larkin , Sidman , and Swett ).

2.15 Conduct ethical angling workshops/displays and teach at least 50 fishermen the importance of venting fish, using circle hooks, proper handling skills, and proper length measurements. (Cameron )

2.16 Continue to increase awareness of fisheries management regulations through the exchange of information among non-governmental agencies, governmental agencies, local media, and the fishing community. (Cameron )

2.17 Conduct educational programs to the public and provide assistance on methods of deployment and maintenance of artificial reefs and continue to work towards the development of an artificial reef program in Bay County. (Cameron )

2.18 Conduct kids fishing clinics with local agencies and businesses to increase the number of youth getting involved in fishing and other outdoor activities. (Cameron )

2.19 Promulgate and distribute the 58th Proceedings of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute and disseminate it to members, libraries, universities, and computer databases. (Creswell )

2.20 Serve as chairman of the Steering and Program Committees for the 60th Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute and publish its Book of Abstracts. (Creswell )

2.21 Conduct two-day youth fishing tournament. (Creswell )

2.22 Conduct educational programs for the public and provide assistance to the Escambia County Marine Resource Division in the monitoring, maintenance, and development of artificial reefs off the northwest Florida coastline. (Diller)

2.23 Conduct fish survival workshops for recreational fishermen, charter boat operators, and fishing tournament organizations that address such topics as fish venting, circle hooks, proper handling and release, and fishery management issues. (Diller)

2.24 Conduct at least 3 youth fishing camps/ clinic with local agencies, 4-H clubs in order to increase the number of youth involved in fishing. (Fluech )

2.25 Educate at least 100 anglers about circle hooks, proper fish handling, venting tools, and fishing regulations through printed materials, workshops and displays. (Fluech )

2.26 Assist state specialists with a charter captain artificial reef needs assessment. (Fluech )

2.27 Assist Rookery Bay NERR staff with their monthly fish monitoring project. (Fluech )

2.28 Coordinate with Richard Makopondo to conduct a series of focus groups to address multicultural fisheries issues with Hispanic ethnic groups in Collier County. (Fluech )

2.29 Develop a pilot project that will explore links of communication of recreational fishing information with the non-English speaking community. The contacts will be initially with church groups and teen-aged individuals. It is hoped that establishing an effective dialogue with these groups will open avenues of communication with larger user groups in the region. The topic areas may include seafood safety, current regulations, and others. The results of this initial effort will be reported at the Annual FSG Extension Meeting in Cedar Key. (Fluech).

2.30 Continue providing scientific advice to the various fishery regulatory agencies through participation on advisory panels and testimony at public hearings. (Gregory )

2.31 Empower the Florida Keys Commercial Fisherman’s Association to conduct the Florida Keys Seafood Festival in Key West largely with their own resources and with Extension in more of an advisory role rather than a full partnership role as was the case for the 2006 and 2007 events. This will allow more time for developing an educational component to this now successful public event. (Gregory )

2.32 Assist the local fishing industry, county planners, and interested public with workshops, meetings and research to provide waterfront management with the aim of maintaining a sustainable level of waterfront access for the commercial fishing industry. (Gregory )

2.33 Explore continuation of the REDStart Fisheries Enhancement Program as a research facility that will be utilized by Florida Gulf Coast University, US Fish and Wildlife Service and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation. (Hazell )

2.34 Develop Release Methods/Techniques Kit for distribution to all FSG field agents and interested specialists. This would be in addition to the table-top displays already available. The kit would include examples of venting tools, rapid release tools, circle hooks, brochures, cards, and CDs. (Kearl, Fluech, Adams).

2.35 Develop an EDIS article from the existing FSG Venting Tool Brochure. Completing this task will make the information more available to interested individuals via the internet. (2007: Stevely, Adams, Kearl, Zimmerman.

2.36 Develop a Release Methods Video in conjunction with Mote Marine Lab staff. The video will be available on the FSG Website and available on a DVD by request. The video may also be used in developing PSA’s or other outreach materials to provide education on venting and other release methods. (Kearl, Sweat, Fluech).

2.36 Develop and conduct fish identification classes for anglers and interested citizens in Brevard County. (Leonard).

2.37 Contribute to the enhancement of artificial reef science, technology and use in Florida. Lead program activities related to the Steinhatchee Fisheries Management Area and to the development of artificial reef BMPs, and to provide expertise to county and multi-county reef extension programs. Planned activities include: (Lindberg )

2.37.1 In partnership with FWC and local interests, (a) initiate funding requests for Phase II construction of the Steinhatchee Fisheries Management Area (SFMA), (b) continue to provide up-to-date SFMA information to the Taylor County Sea Grant Extension Agent for dissemination through the county program, and (c) design placement strategies for the Levy and Dixie County development of the SFMA area zoned for fishing reefs.

2.37.2 A proposal for SFMA Phase II construction was prepared, submitted and approved for $256,000 in Florida FY 2007-2008, with a commitment by FWC to partner directly with the University and FSGE in this development and to continue funding in subsequent years until the SFMA construction is completed.

2.37.3 Communication of SFMA information and coordination of related extension programs within Taylor County will be enhances when SG Extension Agent position is refilled. The placement strategy for SFMA fishing reefs has been developed and communicated to the Taylor County Extension Director, who is overseeing the construction contract from FWC for the first placements of fishing reefs.

2.38 In partnership with FWC, convene an internal science colloquium for its staff in July 2007, with Lindberg and other researchers invited to present and debate these issues. The result will be more knowledgeable staff focused on directing program investments to fill critical gaps and reduce uncertainties. (Lindberg )

2.39 Plan for regional artificial reef workshops. These workshops will be coordinated by FSG Extension faculty and based on regional needs of county artificial reef coordinators. (Ongoing: Stevely, Sweat, Cameron, Sweat, Lindberg)

2.40 Develop an “Understanding the Attraction-Production Issue” targeted primarily for county artificial reef coordinators and industry sectors engaged in artificial reef development, to help foster more scientific approaches to reef development. (Lindberg )

2.41 Provide one-on-one consultations to seafood processors, harvesters and retailers on seafood related topics. (Mahan )

2.42 Continue multi-state collaboration with Gary Graham (Commercial Fisheries Specialist – Texas Sea Grant) on shrimp industry related topics such as turtle excluder devices (TEDs), by-catch reduction devices, and electronic log books (ELBs) to assist area shrimp fishermen in dealing with current economic and fishery management issues. (Mahan )

2.43 Provide technical support to the Franklin County Seafood Industry Taskforce on fisheries and Apalachicola Bay management issues. (Mahan )

2.44 Provide technical information to the Franklin County Board of County Commissioners on local, state, and Gulf of Mexico fisheries management issues. (Mahan )

2.45 Work as the appointed liaison between and to be the Franklin County Board of County Commissioners and the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and other regulatory state and federal agencies on Apalachicola Bay fisheries and environmental management issues. (Mahan )

2.46 Work with FL State University faculty & staff to educate commercial and recreational fishermen about fisheries management issues. (Mahan )

2.47 The capability of organizations and technical staff concerned with coastal fisheries to utilize artificial reefs will be enhanced through development of an 2007 International program on artificial reefs will be held in Spain in 2007. (Seaman)

2.48 Determine the availability of marine fisheries-related citation incidence data by ethnic group. If available, this information may provide some guidance regarding the most needed educational information for these ethnic groups. (Simoniello).

2.49 Conduct “Proof of Concept” on the usefulness of available sea surface data for the for-hire and offshore anglers in two regions of Florida: 1) Broward-Dade Counties and 2) Tampa Bay area. Informal meetings and sessions will be conducted to determine demand for the information currently available. The differing informational demands of the two types of anglers will help determine the efficacy of developing educational efforts utilizing this information. The educational effort will be a part of the overall sustainable recreational fishing program and will help anglers understand the impact of potential increased fishing effort (via the use of ocean data as a means to reduce search time) on regional fisheries management efforts. (2007-08 Simoniello)

2.50 Evaluate utility of data buoy deployed on the West Florida Shelf in 2006 that is coupling physical oceanographic data with fisheries data test deployment. (Simoniello )

2.51 Work with FSG Extension faculty, SEACOOS researchers and National Weather Service Forecasting Offices to develop pilot oceanographic maps and real-time data websites that provide timely information to recreational fisheries. (Simoniello )

2.52 Continue evaluation of sponge population recovery in Florida Keys following a widespread mortality. Project funded by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. A final report was submitted to FWC in fall, 2006. It is anticipated a new rule by FWC to expand sponge grounds and change regulations to require cutting sponge will occur in 2007. (Stevely )

2.53 Enhance artificial reef habitat in Charlotte County. (Staugler )

2.53.1 Identify site for a new Charlotte County artificial reef.

2.53.2 Enhance existing reefs in need of materials as money allows.

2.53.3 Educate resource users of reef locations and proper etiquette for using reef resources through the Boating and Angling Guide to Charlotte Harbor, and through the development of a Charlotte County Artificial Reef brochure and local Sea Grant extension website.

2.53.4 Develop artificial reef cleanup and treasure hunt event as an educational tool and fundraiser.

2.53.5 Continue to work on seven county socioeconomic study of SW Florida artificial reefs

2.54 Participate in the planning and implementation of the Kids Cup Redfish Tournament (Staugler )

2.55 Continue to work cooperatively with the FWC fisheries independent monitoring program with their monthly fisheries. (Staugler )

2.56 Serve clients with educational programming (workshops, seminars, presentations and publications) relating to seafood safety, coastal zone management and sport fishing. Will continue restoration effort programming with sponge, scallop and oyster reefs. (Sweat )

2.57 Provide fish survival information and ethical angling information for recreational fishermen and youth. (Verlinde )

2.58 Coordinate the Santa Rosa County FY 2007-2008 FWCC artificial reef monitoring proposal application. (Verlinde )

2.59 Create a Recreational Work Action Team (WAT) that will have responsibility to conduct specific training activities in various parts of the state. This core group will be of particular value to FSGE agents who do not have expertise in fisheries. Discussion and implementation of this WAT will take place at the fall annual FSGE meeting in Cedar Key. (All)