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Office
of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas |
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Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Office
of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas oversees the management of Florida's 41
aquatic preserves, three National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR), one National
Marine Sanctuary and the Coral Reef Conservation Program. These protected areas
comprise more than 4 million acres of the most valuable submerged lands and select
coastal uplands in Florida.
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"Through Florida’s aquatic preserves, research reserves and national marine sanctuary, the
state protects more than four million acres of submerged lands. These coastal and aquatic
areas preserve wildlife habitats and protect waterways, while inviting residents and
visitors to explore Florida’s natural environment."
Secretary Michael W. Sole
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Management Plan Review
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Headline
News |
Highlights |
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Swimming Seashells
Summer is here and seafood lovers are taking to the
water with their masks, fins and snorkels looking for
dinner. The season for recreational harvesting of bay
scallops is open from July 1 - September 10 from the
Hernando/Pasco County line north to Mexico Beach Canal
in Bay County.
Bay scallops have two shells and 30-40 bright blue eyes
which they use to detect movement. When threatened, the
scallop can swim backwards by clapping its valves and
expelling water rapidly. Scallops need clear saltwater
with lush seagrass beds to live. The seagrasses provide
food and protection for the scallops and improve water
quality.
More about
bay scallops...
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Snorkeler collecting scallops |
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Living Waters: Aquatic Preserves of Florida
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Last updated:
July 18, 2008
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3900 Commonwealth Boulevard M.S. 235
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
850-245-2094 (phone) / 850-245-2110 (fax)
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