Florida Sea Grant’s innovative fishing education programs have been honored with a national award for their outstanding contributions to marine conservation.
The Florida Friendly Fishing Guide (FFFG) and Florida Friendly Angler (FFA) programs received the prestigious Superior Outreach Programming Team Award from the Sea Grant Extension Assembly during National Sea Grant Week in Savannah, Georgia.
These programs, developed in collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), promote responsible and sustainable fishing practices among recreational anglers and professional fishing guides.
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“Preserving Florida’s aquatic resources through education and adherence of best practices is of utmost importance for our state’s environmental, economic and human health,” said Michael Sipos, Florida Sea Grant agent in Collier County. “Visiting beaches and natural spaces are among the largest drivers of tourism in Florida, while activities such as fishing are critically important to thousands of jobs as well as our culture.”
The interactive online courses cover a range of topics, including:
- Fisheries management
- Catch-and-release best practices
- Seafood safety
- Environmental ethics
Since their launch, the programs have reached thousands of anglers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to minimize their environmental impact.
The FFFG program has certified 118 charter captains, while 1,206 individuals have completed the FFA course. Participants report increased knowledge and adoption of sustainable fishing techniques.
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The programs have been so successful that they are being adopted by other states, including Ohio. Florida Sea Grant is also working to expand the reach of the programs to Spanish-speaking audiences and integrate them into court systems for fisheries infractions.
This national recognition highlights Florida’s leadership in promoting responsible fishing practices and underscores the importance of education in protecting our marine resources.
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