Project

Fisheries Extension Enhancement Tools

Full Title: Enhancing fisheries extension by providing tools for assessing travel, targeting, effort and economic contributions
The project aims to enhance fisheries extension by developing tools to assess travel, targeting, effort, and economic contributions of fisheries at the county level in Florida. It empowers Florida Sea Grant agents with data and training to support informed decision-making and sustainable practices.
Lead Investigator: Dr. Ed Camp, UF/IFAS School of Forest Resource and Conservation, [email protected]
Project Team: • Angela Collins, UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant Agent • Christa Court, UF/IFAS Food and Resource Economics Department • Brittany Hall-Scharf, UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant Agent • Andrew Ropicki, UF/IFAS Food and Resource Economics Department • Michael Sipos, UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant Agent • Savanna Barry, Regional Specialized Extension Agent, UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station
Collaborator: FWC, NOAA-NMFS
Award Amount: $10,000
Year Funded: 2020
Award Period: 11/01/2020 – 12/31/2021
Project Abstract:

The project addresses the critical need for sustainable marine fisheries management in Florida, which is essential for the state’s economy and ecosystems. By leveraging data-rich resources from commercial and recreational fisheries, the project aims to provide county-specific insights into fishing dynamics, including travel patterns, targeting, and economic contributions. The methodology involves creating detailed fact-sheets and training materials for Florida Sea Grant agents, enabling them to communicate this information to local decision-makers effectively. The anticipated impact includes improved advertising strategies, informed policy-making, and enhanced community resilience. The project outcomes are expected to bolster the relevance of Florida Sea Grant agents and serve as a model for similar initiatives in other coastal states.

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