Ana Zangroniz

The Miami area is a fast-growing diverse urban environment in close proximity to the sea and its variety of marine habitats. In 2010 Miami’s population was 2.4 million (U.S. Census). Over time population growth and coastal development have intensified pressures on the health and sustainability of our marine resources and habitats.

Miami also has a high immigrant and transient community that is 60% Hispanic. More than 70 languages or dialects are spoken.

In addition, Miami-Dade County has more than 55,000 registered recreational boaters with over 240 public and private marinas and boatyards. The number of registered boaters is expected to increase, causing concern for the sustainability of our natural resources and the impacts on the environment from associated activities.

Fishing is also an important resource-based industry in Florida. The state ranks first in the country for saltwater anglers. Sea Grant Extension works closely with anglers to provide them sustainable fishing practices to help reduce fishing mortality. The Sea Grant Advisory Committee of Miami-Dade County identifies local issues of concern for the sustainability of our natural resources and the impacts on the environment from associated activities.

Education

• B.S., photojournalism, Rochester Institute of Technololgy
• M.S., marine affairs and policy, University of Miami