A Special Message From the Director of Florida Sea Grant
The President’s budget has been released and it proposes elimination of the Sea Grant program.
Volunteer Boat Captains and Snorkelers Needed for the Sixth Annual Pine Island Sound Scallop Search
Up to 40 boats and 150 snorkelers are needed to help monitor and document the health and status of the bay scallop population.
Scallop larvae released in Charlotte County
Bay Scallop recovery efforts in the waters off Charlotte County will be getting a much needed boost on Sunday, Dec. 16 when 8 million young scallop larvae are released into local waters. The release is being spearheaded by Florida Sea Grant agent Betty Staugler, Charlotte County, with assistance from area volunteers, the Florida Fish and…
Scallop Research and Restoration
Scallops live about one year before either dying off naturally or being eaten by humans, crabs, octopuses, or a variety of shell-crushing fish. They spawn primarily in the fall. After about a two-week period as plankton, larvae develop a small shell and settle onto seagrass blades. They continue to grow while attached to the grass…
Scallop Searches
Volunteer scallop searches are part of Florida’s efforts to restore bay scallop populations. These are no-take outings conducted in areas presently closed to scalloping. Volunteers snorkel and search for scallops, recording the numbers to help monitor and document the health and status of returning scallop populations. While the numbers may vary from year-to-year, it’s most important…