Tips for avoiding fake grouper

Grouper is one of Florida’s most valuable commercial fisheries. In 2011 over 6.9 million pounds were landed in the state with an estimated dockside value of over $19 million. However,because of its economic value, popularity among consumers, and limited supply, grouper has been the target of species substitution and mislabeling by some wholesalers, restaurants, and…

Wallat named Taylor County extension agent

In his position, Geoff Wallat will implement programs for the Florida Sea Grant College Program that promote the sustainable use of natural resources in Florida’s coastal living areas. He will also be responsible for IFAS extension programs in areas such as water use and conservation, 4-H, forestry and wildlife management. Wallat has more than 22 years…

How will climate change affect restoration of the Florida Everglades?

Download the final report How will changes in future climate, including rising sea level, increased temperature and evaporation, and perhaps less rainfall and longer droughts, affect the success of the ongoing multi-billion dollar Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program? The effects could be dire, and climate change needs to be factored into restoration planning, according to Everglades…

Tackling the Oyster Collapse in Apalachicola Bay

Responding to the oyster fishery collapse in Apalachicola Bay, experts with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and Florida Sea Grant are joining forces with local seafood producers to find ways of restoring sustainable populations of the area’s world-famous oysters. Apalachicola, a heritage fishing community in the Big Bend region off…