FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 12, 2014
INVASIVE LIONFISH FOCUS OF UPCOMING APALACHICOLA RESERVE WORKSHOP
~Free workshop invites public to discuss invasive lionfish eradication~
APALACHICOLA – The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) and
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Lionfish Action Control Team are partnering to raise awareness about the invasive lionfish. Local fishing guide,
Grayson Shepard, will talk with the public about the recent increase in population of the
invasive lionfish during a Sci-Café Aug.14 at Tamara’s Tapas Bar and
Grill in Apalachicola. Free, cooked lionfish samples will be offered, with
sides and drinks available for purchase.
“The lionfish
population has greatly expanded on our offshore reefs over the last few years,”
said Jenna Harper, manager of ANERR. “The long-term
management of this species will rely, in part, on harvesting by recreational
fishermen. This workshop will educate the public on how they can help reduce
the population and lessen the impact of this invasive species, while also enjoying
the benefits of their labors.”
FWC's Meaghan Faletti will discuss the biology, current population levels and regulations for
collecting lionfish, as well as the threat they pose to the recreational and
commercial fisheries in Florida. She and Grayson will also demonstrate the safest
way to clean lionfish, as this species has venomous spines.
The Sci-Café is a laid back, relaxing way to meet and talk
with scientists and environmental managers about a variety of scientific
topics. The public is encouraged to attend and learn more about this ongoing problem with invasive species.
The event is free, but registration is required. Please contact Margo
Posten at 850-670-7719 or Margaret.posten@dep.state.fl.us
to register or with questions.
WHAT: Lionfish Control Community Workshop
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 14
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Tamara's Tapas Bar and Grill
73 Market Street
Apalachicola, Florida 32320
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