Workshop Will Focus On Sharks

June 21, 2009

Release from: Florida Today

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has scheduled public workshops to receive comments on shark management.

The commission is seeking feedback on options for amending its shark management rules to comply with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Coastal Sharks.

It is seeking comments on the recreational and commercial harvest of sharks in state waters of Florida, including possible changes to shark bag and size limits, the prohibited shark species list, and shark landing requirements and gear rules.

One hearing will be in Brevard County, from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Brevard Agricultural Center, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa. For details, call 850-488-6411.

Anyone requiring special accommodations to participate should advise the commission at least five days prior to the workshop by calling 850-488-6411. Hearing- or speech-impaired persons can call the Florida Relay Service at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or 800-955-8770 (voice).