Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Everglades Non-native Fish Round Up

The Everglades ecosystem is home to at least 22 non-native freshwater fish species. These non-native fish may be causing detrimental changes to our native fish communities, particularly as the number of new species continues to increase. All but one of these fish were introduced illegally as the result of releases of unwanted pets and food fish, or due to the flooding of aquaculture ponds.
The Everglade CISMA is hosting the Everglades Non-native Fish Round Up to raise public awareness about the negative impacts of releasing non-native fish into Florida waters, and to encourage anglers to target these non-native species for consumption. The roundup will also gather data into non-native fish distribution and abundance that can assist in their management.
The Round Up will be a one day event open to all anglers (shore or boat) fishing in the Everglades area. Prizes will be awarded for largest fish, largest aggregate catch (weight), and will include a junior division. We also will award a "Slam" prize to the angler that catches the greatest number of non-native species.
The Round Up will be held Saturday, June 25th, 2011 in Miami-Dade County at the Miccosukee Arches (SW 8th St/SW 172 Ave). There is a $25 entry fee. Participants will receive an Everglades CISMA Non-Native Fish Round-up T-shirt as well as merchandise from our sponsors.

For more info, visit http://www.evergladescisma.org/roundup/ .

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