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 Commissioner Gary Lester; Terry Atchley, Hardee County; Russell Schweiss, Mosaic; Denise Grimsely, The Development Group.
The FWC is partnering with The Mosaic Company and Hardee County to create a new freshwater fishing destination in central Florida! The Florida Fishing Trail will feature a series of freshwater lakes and is estimated to be complete in Spring 2024. FWC staff, local representatives and members of the community celebrated the kickoff of the project at a groundbreaking event on March 24.
Read more about this project in the recent news release and view photos from the site.
 
 Western Dry Rocks spatial closure will be from April 1 to July 31 and is intended to protect multiple reef fish species that aggregate to spawn.
FWC scientists are using diverse technology to monitor the reef's marine fish communities in the Western Dry Rocks, including the use of a passive acoustic hydrophone to record underwater sounds. These sound clips can be used to identify fish known to make specific noises and can be used to monitor boating activity. Monitoring boat traffic provides us with information on closure compliance, how boating pressure changes and to determine if boating activity influences fish behavior in the area.
Sound on! Check out these spectrograms, visual representations of sound, to hear and see what is caught by the hydrophones:
- In the first clip, we can see and hear a boat traveling at high speed through the area.
- In the second clip, we see and hear a boat going in and out of gear at the same location.
Find more information regarding the Western Dry Rocks spatial closure.
Check out our social media post about our work at Western Dry Rocks for more.
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 FWC researchers are using surgically implanted acoustic transmitters to monitor Florida cobia movements and learn more about their spawning migrations – and we need your help! Donate a harvested cobia or report a tagged fish to hook a $50 reward and help our researchers collect valuable information on fish movement and sample harvested cobia’s reproductive organs to determine if and where they spawn along Florida’s coasts.
How can you help and earn $50.00?
- Harvest a cobia between March and September, donate the carcass to receive a $50 reward!
- Keep the cobia whole or filleted (WITH ORGANS INTACT) on ice.
- Call for a biologist to meet you and receive your $50 reward:
> Atlantic Coast (Jupiter): 561-510-5620.
> Gulf Coast (Charlotte Harbor): 727-220-7108.
- Catch a tagged cobia, release it in good condition, report it to receive a $50 reward and t-shirt!
- Take a picture of the plastic dart tag (near dorsal fin).
- Record the tag number, fork length, date, and general location of catch.
- Release the fish in good condition with tags intact.
- Call 561-882-5975 to report the cobia and get a reward and t-shirt.
*If you accidentally harvest a tagged cobia, report all information listed above and return BOTH the internal acoustic transmitter (inside body cavity) and external plastic dart tag (near dorsal fin) to:
Attn: Dayna Hunn
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Tequesta Field Laboratory
19100 SE Federal Highway
Tequesta, FL 33469
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 Our freshwater fisheries biologists recently discovered a speckled worm eel (Myrophis punctatus) in the Fenholloway River in Taylor County. The speckled worm eel is typically a coastal marine species - documenting one in freshwater is a unique find.
Speckled worm eels could be underreported in freshwater due to misidentification: their snake-like appearance is similar to American eels (Anguilla rostrata) that reside in freshwater for most of their lives.
 Speckled worm eels: Speckled pattern, overhanging upper jaw, sac-like throat pouch, maximum size of 15 inches.
 American eels: No speckled pattern, projecting lowerjaw, notably larger with lengths up to 60 inches.
Learn more about the differences between the two species.
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 Attention birders! The Florida Breeding Bird Survey needs volunteers to complete survey routes this spring. Each route consists of 50, 3-minute point counts. Of the 81 statewide BBS routes in Florida, 19 are currently unassigned for 2023. Our goal is to fill as many survey routes as possible by mid-April. To view routes in Florida, see route location maps.
Requirements for participation are:
- Access to suitable transportation to complete a survey.
- Good hearing and eyesight.
- The ability to identify all breeding birds in the area by sight and sound. Knowledge of bird songs is extremely important because most birds counted on these surveys are singing males.
- New BBS participants must also successfully complete the BBS Methodology Training Program before their data will be used in any BBS analyses. The training program is available from the national BBS offices and the state, provincial, and territorial coordinators:
Interested in volunteering for a BBS point count in Florida? Please contact our state coordinator, Rob Mulligan, at Robert.Mulligan@MyFWC.com for more information.
On Jan. 21, the Suncoast YCC participated in Pinellas County’s STEM Explorer Fest held at Largo Central Park. This event invited students and children of all ages to come out and learn about different STEM fields and opportunities through hands-on activities. FYCCN’s Suncoast team set up a table for the event with two different marine science lessons. One half of the booth displayed multiple types of fish tagging methods, offering participants the chance to dart tag using a toy fish. The other half of the booth held a fun guessing game where kids, families and other visitors used microscopes and clue books to match species of fish larvae to their corresponding adult fish specimens. Throughout the afternoon, almost 400 people made their way to the Suncoast booth, learning about various programs offered at the center all while trying their hand at using scientific tools. Thanks to the staff who participated in this event, visiting students were able to discover opportunities and skills offered in STEM through various programs at the center.
Only a couple weeks later, Heather Early and Alexandria Bishop, educators at the Suncoast YCC, made their way to Dunedin, to celebrate the Florida Gulf Coast Hope Spot. Downtown in Edgewater Park, nearly 150 visitors found Heather (pictured on masthead) and Alexx with a hands-on educational fish tagging and surveying table for this ocean friendly family event. This event featured food, drinks, entertainment and educational experiences with the goal of contributing zero waste – and thanks to the vendors, exhibitors and public dedication, this goal was made a success! These festivals are just some of the ways in which Suncoast can educate and empower local communities with our conservation principles.
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 Our freshwater biologists conducting electrofishing samples on the Chipola River recently came across a blacknose crappie. Blacknose crappie are the same species as black crappie but have a unique genetic trait that gives them a black line that runs from their dorsal fin to the lower jaw.
 It is thought that this recessive gene aids their ability to see against glare caused by the sun or to provide a form of camouflage from prey. Learn more about the black crappie.
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  FWC deploys officers to the Keys
The Florida Keys are a beloved tourist destination, with crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. However, maintaining the natural beauty of this area requires constant care and attention. That where FWC officers come in. The deployment of officers to the Florida Keys has numerous benefits, not only for preserving the environment but also for developing team comradery.
 One of the primary benefits of having FWC officers deployed to the Florida Keys is the increased wildlife protection in the area. The Keys are home to diverse wildlife, including numerous endangered and threatened species. FWC officers enforce regulations that protect these animals, such as fishing limits, boating restrictions and habitat conservation laws. By having additional officers stationed in the Keys, there is a greater likelihood that these regulations will be enforced, which helps protect the region's delicate ecosystem.
 The area can become quite congested during peak season. This can lead to increased violations of wildlife and environmental regulations, such as littering, poaching and illegal fishing. By having FWC officers on the ground, there is a greater chance these violations will be detected and punished, which helps to deter future violations and protect the region's natural resources.
 Helping build the FWC presence in the Keys has required deploying officers from around the state. To create a home base, we've utilized BERGs, portable bathrooms, showers and even laundry facilities. Gone are the days of having to sleep in one's truck and go potentially weeks with dirty laundry. Teams bring various creature comforts and full-blown field kitchens to allow the officers to relax and not have to worry about food after long days of patrolling.
 Deploying FWC officers to the Keys provides numerous benefits, including increased protection of wildlife, improved enforcement of regulations, and enhanced team comradery among FWC officers, by working together to protect the region's natural resources and the local economy.
  Give released reef fish a better chance: FWC, American Sportfishing Association, Coastal Conservation Association Florida remind anglers to carry barotrauma mitigation tools to help conserve reef fish
Save the date: FWC and Destin–Fort Walton Beach host 9th Annual Lionfish Festival May 20-21
Catch some fun this weekend on license-free freshwater fishing days
Go slow and look out below – manatees are on the move
Spring brings more activity from Florida’s wildlife
FWC and DEP Visit Southwest Florida to Survey Red Tide Conditions and Ensure Local Needs Are Being Met
FWC statewide snook workshops start next week
  Officers attended the 2023 Pelican Party. The dinner fundraiser was held to support Pelican Harbor wildlife rehab programs. The FWC was recognized for its partnership and support with rescues/recovery of injured wildlife in Miami-Dade County.
 L to R: Officer George Reynaud, Director Christopher Boykin, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Cava, Miami Gardens Commissioner David Williams Jr, Officer Ronald Washington.
  Citizens and FWC customers were so impressed by the following employees, they told us about it through email on the "Praise an Employee" page of MyFWC.com/Contact. When your coworkers receive kudos, help share the good news by contacting Kelly.Broderick@MyFWC.com.
Lt. Whitney Chase
Lt. Chase arrived promptly and was extremely friendly. She was very informative and went out of her way to explain and teach us more about the gopher tortoise. Her knowledge was extensive and she had a great demeanor. Even pointed us to several videos to educate us more about Florida wildlife that we have grown to love and respect. Please acknowledge her for her outstanding service-oriented presentation.
Officer Jason Dalton
On the afternoon of Feb. 4, my vehicle and myself plunged into a pond. This happened at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, Lakewood Ranch. I was backing into a parking space when something went terribly wrong. I hit the brake, nothing happened. Next thing I knew, the vehicle was in the pond, I rolled down my window and called for help. Jason Dalton swam to the car and told me I would have to swim out, I told him I do not swim. He could not open the driver’s door as the vehicle was at an angle. Jason swam to the passenger side, opened the door and told me to hang on to him, which I did. I got out of the water without any injuries. The vehicle was completely submerged within about 20 minutes. Jason Dalton saved my life and is a hero. I hope he is recognized for his bravery.
Senior Officer Specialist Matt Webb
My husband called about our property on water and he called back the same night and gave us great news on what we could do with our property.
Angela Williams, HSC
I had some questions about a particular wildlife permit that had been issued by FWC. Angela was very helpful in answering all my questions and was patient with the amount of time that it took to answer my inquiries. She not only provided the information that I needed but went above and beyond by providing information on how to gain access to the online permitting system. Well done!
Tony Young, HGM (two commendations)
Very helpful and personable. Willing to put in extra effort to help.
I called the FDL late on Monday and was referred to Tony Young and left him a voicemail. At 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday I received a message with information regarding my Limited Entry Quota Permit. We exchanged several messages and all of my questions were answered. He not only provided explanations but various options available to me. Basically, I felt he was "on my side," understood the situation and was very helpful.
 Congratulations to the following employees for reaching 5-year milestones of employment with the FWC.
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30 Years
Stuart Cumberbatch, IT
15 Years
Alyssa Jordan, HSC
Adrienne Ruga, FWRI
Rob Ruzicka, FWRI
Wesley Seitz, OLP
10 Years
Jeffrey Shelton, FWF
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5 Years
Arthur Agdeppa, FWF
Brittany Lay, HSC
Jessica Pfohl, LE
Teresa Waugh, HSC
Robert Wielgus, HSC
Retired!
Lt. David McDaniel, LE – 28 years
Officer Greg Stanley, LE – 26 years, 7 months
Joseph Munyandorero, FWRI – 18 years
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(The FWC has a great many non-FTE employees, and they deserve recognition for reaching 5-year milestones too. Unfortunately, the system doesn't keep track of such statistics; but we don't want that to stop us. If you know of a non-FTE employee about to reach a 5-year milestone, please notify the Inside Job by email.) |
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FWC employees have some of the most interesting jobs ever! Here are some of our employees doing what they do best. Send your photos of FWC employees in the office and in the field to Kelly.Broderick@MyFWC.com.
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 Recently, the FWC Southwest Dive Team responded to a call in Polk County and worked with local agencies to help bring closure to a local family.
 The Dive Team uses a variety of sonar technologies, including side-scan sonar, forward-scan sonar and multibeam sonar. These technologies allow the team to search large areas of water quickly and effectively. The team also uses a variety of other technologies, including drones and underwater cameras, to help them in their searches.
 The Dive Team also works closely with local agencies, including sheriff's offices, police and fire departments. These agencies support the team, including boats and equipment. The team also works with local dive teams, who provide additional manpower and expertise.
 Southwest Region officers, along with deputies from the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, worked with staff from our hatchery to stock a local youth fishing pond in Highlands County. Biologists Sara Menendez and Zach Chapman with FFM were instrumental in this. They were able to speak with the kids and afforded them a hands-on opportunity to learn about fish management practices. This was the first of three planned fish releases for this particular pond and 500 catfish were released.
  The Northwest Region just hosted the Advanced Conservation Academy in Panama City Beach, where Senior Officers Dan Hahr and Matt Webb coordinated training on Individual Fishing Quotas, commercial fishing enforcement, private land management practices and Florida Buck registry training. NOAA agents took time to explain the IFQ process and also covered the vessel monitoring systems and enforcement techniques. Additionally, members were trained to score Florida bucks based on the Boone and Crockett scale. The training culminated in a detail conducting numerous inspections on local commercial landings and fish houses. Officer Webb also led the members in a group workout and Officer Hahr treated everyone to a great shrimp boil, with a little recreation after.
 Recently, Southwest K-9 Jenny ran the PAT test in Sarasota with her handler Officer Valerie Garcia. Jenny had a little trouble staying within the approved route and, of course, had to stop and get her belly rubbed midway through but she always maintained a positive attitude and ultimately passed with flying colors. Officer Garcia did well too.
 Southwest Region Officer Ariel Devine and Senior Officer Adam Brown recently joined the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office for their inaugural expo event in Port Charlotte. This event granted CCSO, FWC and fellow partners an opportunity to highlight some of the recent positive achievements and interact with members of the community where we work every day.
 Students from Associated Marine Institutes were led on a tour of the Miami office that neighbors their facility. AMIKids is nonprofit organization dedicated to helping youth develop into responsible and productive citizens. The students were taught about liveries, boating safety and FWC core missions. They were also introduced to FWC Lt. Col. Escanio who shared his experience as a fellow native of Miami-Dade County and his path to senior leadership within FWC LE.
 Officers George Reynaud and Ronald Washington attended a career day at Young Mens Preparatory Academy and shared advice and stories to engage with the students about boating safety, environmental stewardship and activities within the FWC. They answered questions about the journey to become an officer and the career opportunities in FWC.
 Officer Jerry Begera and his wife, Kayla Begera, welcomed son Andrew Begera on March 22. He weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces.
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The deadline for the April 17 issue is Monday, April 10
The Inside Job is a bi-monthly newsletter featuring
the employees and programs of the FWC.
Send your submissions, comments and questions to Kelly.Broderick@MyFWC.com.
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