Help FWC biologists restore oyster reefs in St. Andrew’s Bay

August 1, 2018

Join the Aquatic Habitat Restoration and Conservation Section of FWC in monitoring efforts of an oyster reef in Bay County. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this project is designed to restore over 4 acres of oyster reef habitat and foster the recovery of over 200 acres of seagrass habitat. The goals of this effort include enhancing the local oyster population and creating fisheries habitat. The improved oyster population should also improve water clarity and quality.

Overview:

Join FWC biologists as we monitor progress on a large Oyster Reef Habitat Restoration Project in St. Andrew’s Bay, FL. Field days are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday every week, as well as the second Saturday of the month. 8 volunteers spots are open for each day. From August to October, we will be surveying different aspects of the project:

Aug 6th – Aug 24th: Reef Height & Coverage Surveys
Aug 27th – Sept 4th: Seagrass Surveys
Sept 6th – Oct 5th: Monitoring Unit Surveys

Each survey has slightly different goals and requirements, so please read the description in “Today’s Opportunity” on the sign-up page for specific information. For example, some surveys require swimming while others can be conducted from the boat.

To sign up:  Visit the following link to sign up for a day: http://signup.com/go/zMybGBD

When & Where:  The time slots for these volunteer opportunities are 9 AM – 3 PM. Please set aside the entire time. FWC staff will meet you and other volunteers at B.V. Buchanan Park and Public Boat Ramp, https://www.theonlinefisherman.com/florida-boat-ramps/bv-buchanan-park-and-public-boat-ramp, at 8:45 a.m. so we can leave promptly at 9 a.m. We will return to the boat ramp at 3 p.m.

Questions: E-mail or call Emily Hardin at Emily.Hardin@MyFWC.com or 850-508-8557.