MEDIA ADVISORY: Nov. 4, 2014

CONTACT: Anita Grove, 850-670-7708, Anita.Grove@dep.state.fl.us

APALACHICOLA RESEARCH RESERVE HOSTS
INVASIVE LIONFISH WORKSHOP

~Free workshop focuses on how the public can help reduce lionfish population~

PORT ST. JOE – The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Lionfish Action Control Team, and the Friends of St. Joe Bay are partnering to raise awareness about the invasive lionfish.

Local fishing guide Grayson Shepard will talk with the public about the potential threats of the invasive lionfish during a Sci-Café Nov. 6, at the Sunset Coastal Grill. 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 the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. “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.”

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission'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 or Anita Grove at 850-670-7708 or Anita.Grove@dep.state.fl.us for more information.

WHAT:            Lionfish Control Community Workshop

WHEN:            Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014
                         5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

WHERE:          Sunset Coastal Grill 
                         602 Monument Ave. (U.S. Highway 98)
                         Port St. Joe, FL 32456

About the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the state’s principal environmental agency, created to protect, conserve and manage Florida’s environment and natural resources. The department enforces federal and state environmental laws, protects Florida’s air and water quality, cleans up pollution, regulates solid waste management, promotes pollution prevention, and acquires environmentally sensitive lands for preservation. The agency also maintains a statewide system of parks, trails and aquatic preserves. To view the department’s website log on to www.dep.state.fl.us.

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLDEP/bulletins/da45bc