Habitat is the Future of Florida Fisheries

Florida has lost a vast amount of coastal habitat to development, altered water flows, and pollution from nutrient runoff and contaminants entering the watershed. The only way to protect and improve our fisheries is by conserving and restoring the habitat that remains. To do this, we must include Habitat in Marine Fisheries Management Plans. Florida’s recreational and commercial fisheries generate more than $27 billion annually for Florida’s economy. These fisheries rely on healthy habitats. Habitat is not part of current fisheries management approaches, and fish populations can only be regulated using seasonal closures, slot limits and bag limits. Regulation alone cannot prevent further decline to our fisheries caused by habitat loss and degradation; a new approach is needed, one that makes habitat a central part of fisheries management. By signing this petition, I express my support for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to collaborate with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust to create a new way to manage our fisheries that focuses on habitat. This includes habitat identification, habitat protection, habitat restoration, and incorporating habitat into fisheries management plans.

Sign Our Coalition Letter

Join BTT in calling on federal, state and local agencies to take immediate steps to reduce and eventually eliminate the use of harmful glyphosate throughout Florida.

It's Your Turn

961 concerned citizens have signed our coalition letter. Complete the form on this page to add your name. Thank you for your support of clean water and healthy fisheries!

Robert L. Silver Springs, FL

Signed
April 29, 2025

Chris F. St petersburg, FL

Signed
April 23, 2025

Chuck D. Fort Myers bch , FL

Signed
April 21, 2025

Edward J. Silver Springs, FL

Signed
March 28, 2025

Robert D. Key West, FL

Signed
March 16, 2025

Michael W. Ocean Ridge, FL

Signed
February 22, 2025

Kristen B. Lyons, CO

Signed
February 21, 2025

Jefferson M. Margate, NJ

Signed
February 21, 2025

Mayumi K. Pasadena , CA

Signed
February 21, 2025

Emmylea E. Placerville, CA

Signed
February 21, 2025