BTU-FCF FLATS FISHING ALLIANCE
Mangroves and saltwater flats are an integral part of many coastal marine ecosystems. These ecosystems stabilize sediment and prevent shoreline erosion, as well as preserve water quality by filtering suspended material and assimilating dissolved nutrients. They also help support important recreational and subsistence fisheries by creating critical breeding areas and nursery habitat for larval fish and other aquatic organisms.
There are huge knowledge gaps in our understanding of the
basic life histories of many of the key target species that
inhabit these saltwater flats. In addition, legislators and
the general public are unaware of how stressors, such as waterfront
development, degradation of critical habitat, and increased
fishing pressure, affect these valuable natural resources.
FCF has partnered with Bonefish & Tarpon Unlimited (BTU) to
form the BTU-FCF Flats Fishing Alliance (FFA). Together, we
are addressing an array of threats to the tropical/sub-tropical
saltwater flats ecosystems and working to conserve and enhance
these important fisheries.
PROJECTS
The FFA organized and conducted a facilitated planning workshop in conjunction with the 2nd International Tarpon-Bonefish Symposium held January 9-10, 2006, at the IGFA headquarters in Dania Beach, Florida. As a blueprint for the future, scientists, managers, and anglers worked together to develop an Action Agenda for Research and Education/Outreach. Proposals for potential projects are in the process of being evaluated, funded, and executed.
Contacts:
For FCF: David Philipp
For BTU: Tom Davidson
DOWNLOAD Flats Fishing Alliance Poster (PDF File)
