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In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_4501" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4501" style="width: 540px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="wp-image-4501 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Photo by scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Courtesy of FWC" width="540" height="394" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/K.-brevis-aka-red-tide-FWC-photo.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4501" class="wp-caption-text">Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O&#8217;Meara AP.</figcaption></figure>
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE <a href="https://ifas-seagrant.catalog.instructure.com/?filters%5B%5D=free">Florida Friendly Angler</a> online program!
<figure id="attachment_4493" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4493" style="width: 354px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-4493 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="354" height="186" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/The-OFL-ABC-ACL-ACT-framework.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4493" class="wp-caption-text">Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management</figcaption></figure>
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
<figure id="attachment_4497" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4497" style="width: 407px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-4497 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="407" height="305" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Sheepshead1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4497" class="wp-caption-text">A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.</figcaption></figure>
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “<a href="https://restoreactscienceprogram.noaa.gov/projects/red-tide-and-reef-fish-modeling">Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish</a>” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
<figure id="attachment_4499" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4499" style="width: 583px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4499 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="583" height="232" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Fig-2.-K.-brevis-bloom-frequency-maps-from-integration-of-water-sample-data-and-MODIS-satellite-observations.-Figure-adapted-from-Hu-et-al.-2022.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4499" class="wp-caption-text">Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).</figcaption></figure>
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model&#8217;s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!
<h2></h2>
<h2>Where you can help!</h2>
<h3>Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?</h3>
<h3><a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.</a></h3>
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 </a>
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
<figure id="attachment_4509" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4509" style="width: 630px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4509 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="630" height="294" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Red-Tide-Survey-Screen-Grab.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4509" class="wp-caption-text">An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!</figcaption></figure>
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1RZnQdqIrIeOgXY">Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!</a>
<figure id="attachment_4505" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4505" style="width: 452px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4505 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="452" height="338" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Photo-Kate-Spinner-Red-tide-Sarasota-Herald-Tribune-1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4505" class="wp-caption-text">A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Resources:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Red Tide Updates:
<ul>
<li>There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  <a href="https://myfwc.com/research/about/connect/subscribe/">The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  </a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-4559 alignright" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Naples-Red-tide-status.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="184" /></a>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none">
<ul>
<li>Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. <a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">To sign up for theses updates check out this link</a><a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/health/fish-kills-hotline/causes/">Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida</a>&#8211; Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!</li>
<li>Monitoring: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide/?redirect=redtidestatus">FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://visitbeaches.org/beach/49/report/41723">Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida</a>. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. </li>
<li><a href="http://ocgweb.marine.usf.edu/hab_tracking/HAB_trajectories.html">USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Reporting:
<ul>
<li>Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.</a></li>
<li>FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Fact Sheets:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/12422/karenia-brevis-factsheet.pdf">Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet</a></li>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/16370/2013-ecphab-brochure_red-tides-on-the-west-florida-shelf.pdf">Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide FAQs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/faq/">FWC red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/faqs/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://mote.org/news/florida-red-tide">Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotteco/2018/08/14/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-2018-red-tide-bloom/">Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 
<ul>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/03/29/when-red-tide-hits-is-your-seafood-safe-a-uf-expert-answers-questions/">When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide General Info: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/21885/bloom-historic-database.pdf">Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Videos: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1er085e7M54">Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VRyW2C3yhg">Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video</a> (26:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26l5I50KbL4">Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:19)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Peer Reviewed Papers:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20411030/">Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v378/p171-186/">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304380018304101?casa_token=CWsj_EO99pAAAAAA:0gpg-eCsFDqwSa6jxHokVVG0Yp6_gRJF8S93ClFyG_y2rARq-fZWlTPP4dc9Cjd5pj_HKU62TA">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-29327-z">Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568988308001571?casa_token=zKOrbpFokv8AAAAA:dD0iAZWpEDZ1oWsNR-2S_thvqsdw-kd9-go_8ptY3scuU70LkHUuir4tK-ZqllknBQN2CixMKg">Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/manateeco/2020/07/14/resources-for-understanding-blue-green-algae-cyanobacteria-blooms/">Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>General resources: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://water.ifas.ufl.edu/harmful-algal-blooms/faq/">University of Florida harmful algae bloom website.</a> Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs</li>
<li><a href="https://www.protectingfloridatogether.gov/education-center">Protecting Florida Together</a>; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;">				<iframe loading="lazy" title="Swimming Karenia brevis 10&#039;" style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/photos/44940561414" width="500" height="373" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
Karenia brevis aka &#8220;red tide&#8221; cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  &#8220;whirling&#8221; and Latin flagellum meaning &#8220;whip.&#8221; K. brevis&#8217;s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O’Meara AP.
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE Florida Friendly Angler online program!
Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model’s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!

Where you can help!
Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?
Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!
A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Resources:
Red Tide Updates:

There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  

Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. To sign up for theses updates check out this link.
 
Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida– Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!
Monitoring: 

FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida
Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. 
USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas
Reporting:

Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.
FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 
Red Tide Fact Sheets:

Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet
Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf
Red Tide FAQs:

FWC red tide frequently asked questions
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions
Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions
Blog: Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom
Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 

Blog: When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions
Red Tide General Info: 

Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC
Videos: 

Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video (4:32)
Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video (26:32)
Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video (4:19)
Peer Reviewed Papers:

Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf
Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework
Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements
Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:

Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms
General resources: 

University of Florida harmful algae bloom website. Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs
Protecting Florida Together; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.
				
Karenia brevis aka “red tide” cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  “whirling” and Latin flagellum meaning “whip.” K. brevis’s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of […]

Red Tide, Fisheries Modeling and Citizen Science: Casting a Line to Anglers and Gulf of Mexico Stakeholders for Better Data!

Two Florida counties were put under quarantine in recent weeks, but this has nothing to do with COVID-19. An agricultural quarantine is intended to prevent the spread of invasive species, but the protocols are unrelated to restrictions put in place for human disease containment. In the most recent cases, the discoveries of the Oriental fruit [&#8230;]

Two Florida counties were put under quarantine in recent weeks, but this has nothing to do with COVID-19.
An agricultural quarantine is intended to prevent the spread of invasive species, but the protocols are unrelated to restrictions put in place for human disease containment. In the most recent cases, the discoveries of the <a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Plant-Pests-and-Diseases/Exotic-Fruit-Fly-Pests/Oriental-Fruit-Fly-Cooperative-Program-St.-Petersburg-Florida">Oriental fruit fly</a> (scientifically known as Bactrocera dorsalis) in Pinellas County and the <a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Plant-Pests-and-Diseases/Invasive-Mollusks/Giant-African-Land-Snail">giant African land snail</a> (GALS) in Pasco County led to quarantines for those counties in late June.
“Understandably, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some residents to be concerned about the word ‘quarantine’ and what that means in terms of their movement in and out of the quarantined zone,” said Whitney Elmore, <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County</a> director. “For an invasive species quarantine, the movement of people and pets is not prohibited.”
Below, Elmore shares more about what people inside and outside the quarantine zone should know.
<h6>Q. Who declares an agricultural quarantine and when is it set?</h6>
A. Here in Florida, the <a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/">Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services</a> (FDACS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are in charge of positively identifying invasive species and determining quarantine zones. Depending on the invasive potential of the organism, a quarantine may or may not be necessary. In some cases, surveys of the area are completed without a quarantine zone while inspection remains ongoing.
For some species, including GALS, the potential risk of movement and the potential for damage to agricultural, ornamental, structural and human/animal health dictates the necessity for a quarantine zone. The FDACS <a href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry">Division of Plant Industry</a> (DPI) is responsible for the GALS eradication program.
<h6>Q. What does it mean when an area is put under quarantine for an invasive species?</h6>
A. Plants, plant materials, yard debris, soil and building materials are not allowed in, out or through a quarantine zone. Even plants purchased as gifts cannot be taken into or out of the quarantined zones, even if they are only transported into or out of a home or building and were never placed in the landscape.
Those working in the lawn and waste pickup industry should consult with FDACS about their role in preventing the spread of invasives out of quarantined zones, too. The FDACS DPI has a help line, 1-888-397-1517, for those needing guidance on the quarantine, including questions about identification or eradication methods.
<h6>Q. Are approaches any different for invasive animals versus plants?</h6>
A. Since most invasive plants are going to be moved more slowly than animals, it is more common for quarantine zones to be set up to prevent spread of invasive animals, which have the ability to spread farther in a shorter period of time. Invasive plants are treated or removed, and the area is monitored for further spread over time. Treatments are typically more effective for eradication of invasive plants compared to animals for the same reason. Known invasive plants and animals are illegal to possess, transport or sell.
<h6>Q. How can residents support efforts to eradicate and/or suppress the spread of invasive species?</h6>
A. FDACS will communicate with residents, businesses and community government to ensure residents understand their role in the case of a quarantine, should one become necessary. Citizens are the key to quickly identifying potential invasive organisms.
Citizens are urged to contact their <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/">local UF/IFAS Extension Office</a> or FDACS when encountering an organism that could be a potentially unknown or even a known invasive. Residents can also become Florida First Detectors by taking online or in-person trainings sessions through UF/IFAS and the First Detector Program. Go to <a href="http://www.flfirstdetector.com/">flfirstdetector.com</a> to learn more about the program and get involved.
&nbsp;
<hr />
Featured photos are of the giant African land snail (credit: Lyle Buss, UF/IFAS) and Oriental fruit fly (credit: Scott Bauer, USDA-ARS)

Two Florida counties were put under quarantine in recent weeks, but this has nothing to do with COVID-19.
An agricultural quarantine is intended to prevent the spread of invasive species, but the protocols are unrelated to restrictions put in place for human disease containment. In the most recent cases, the discoveries of the Oriental fruit fly (scientifically known as Bactrocera dorsalis) in Pinellas County and the giant African land snail (GALS) in Pasco County led to quarantines for those counties in late June.
“Understandably, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some residents to be concerned about the word ‘quarantine’ and what that means in terms of their movement in and out of the quarantined zone,” said Whitney Elmore, UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County director. “For an invasive species quarantine, the movement of people and pets is not prohibited.”
Below, Elmore shares more about what people inside and outside the quarantine zone should know.
Q. Who declares an agricultural quarantine and when is it set?
A. Here in Florida, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are in charge of positively identifying invasive species and determining quarantine zones. Depending on the invasive potential of the organism, a quarantine may or may not be necessary. In some cases, surveys of the area are completed without a quarantine zone while inspection remains ongoing.
For some species, including GALS, the potential risk of movement and the potential for damage to agricultural, ornamental, structural and human/animal health dictates the necessity for a quarantine zone. The FDACS Division of Plant Industry (DPI) is responsible for the GALS eradication program.
Q. What does it mean when an area is put under quarantine for an invasive species?
A. Plants, plant materials, yard debris, soil and building materials are not allowed in, out or through a quarantine zone. Even plants purchased as gifts cannot be taken into or out of the quarantined zones, even if they are only transported into or out of a home or building and were never placed in the landscape.
Those working in the lawn and waste pickup industry should consult with FDACS about their role in preventing the spread of invasives out of quarantined zones, too. The FDACS DPI has a help line, 1-888-397-1517, for those needing guidance on the quarantine, including questions about identification or eradication methods.
Q. Are approaches any different for invasive animals versus plants?
A. Since most invasive plants are going to be moved more slowly than animals, it is more common for quarantine zones to be set up to prevent spread of invasive animals, which have the ability to spread farther in a shorter period of time. Invasive plants are treated or removed, and the area is monitored for further spread over time. Treatments are typically more effective for eradication of invasive plants compared to animals for the same reason. Known invasive plants and animals are illegal to possess, transport or sell.
Q. How can residents support efforts to eradicate and/or suppress the spread of invasive species?
A. FDACS will communicate with residents, businesses and community government to ensure residents understand their role in the case of a quarantine, should one become necessary. Citizens are the key to quickly identifying potential invasive organisms.
Citizens are urged to contact their local UF/IFAS Extension Office or FDACS when encountering an organism that could be a potentially unknown or even a known invasive. Residents can also become Florida First Detectors by taking online or in-person trainings sessions through UF/IFAS and the First Detector Program. Go to flfirstdetector.com to learn more about the program and get involved.
 
Featured photos are of the giant African land snail (credit: Lyle Buss, UF/IFAS) and Oriental fruit fly (credit: Scott Bauer, USDA-ARS)

Two Florida counties were put under quarantine in recent weeks, but this has nothing to do with COVID-19. An agricultural quarantine is intended to prevent the spread of invasive species, but the protocols are unrelated to restrictions put in place for human disease containment. In the most recent cases, the discoveries of the Oriental fruit […]

Agricultural ‘quarantine’ explained, with two Florida counties under such orders

Join us as we celebrate Water Conservation Month! By Doris Heitzmann, Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; Program Manager. April and May are typically the driest months of the year in Central Florida. Making this the perfect time to reflect on our water use and how we can contribute to protecting our most precious resource. There are many opportunities [&#8230;]

<h1>Join us as we celebrate Water Conservation Month!</h1>
By Doris Heitzmann, Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; Program Manager.
<a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/files/2022/04/Water2.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8757 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="247" height="206" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/files/2022/04/Water2.png"></a>
April and May are typically the driest months of the year in Central Florida. Making this the perfect time to reflect on our water use and how we can contribute to protecting our most precious resource.
There are many opportunities to reduce water use in and outside your home. When it comes to outdoor water conservation the University of Florida/IFAS recommends utilizing the Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122;.
A few simple steps, such as selecting and planting drought tolerant native plants, collecting and using rainwater, and maintaining your sprinkler system for efficiency can result in tremendous water savings.
Speaking of Sprinkler or Irrigation Systems here are a few easy maintenance tips 
to keep your system efficient: 
1. Maintain, repair, or replace poorly performing rotors, nozzles, and sprinkler heads. Heads can get clogged, damaged, and misdirected. Repairs can be as simple as cleaning or replacing a filter or nozzle. 
2. Check your <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/irrigation/setting-your-irrigation-timer.html">time clock settings</a> for proper runtime, frequency, and “hidden” runtimes. 
3. Calibrate your <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/irrigation/">irrigation</a> system to ½ to ¾ inches application rate per irrigation event to apply the proper amount of water. 
4. Install a <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE442">smart irrigation controller</a> to avoid unnecessary irrigation events. 
5. Retrofit to and use <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE524">microirrigation</a> in landscape beds.
Rainwater Harvesting: Participate in one of our monthly rainwater harvesting classes to learn how to use your <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/irrigation/rain-barrels.html">rain barrel</a>. Barrels are also made available for purchase.
Design your Landscape for drought by using drought tolerant and native plants.  Plant right before or during the rainy season for water conserving plant establishment.
Water Conservation Rebate Programs: Last but not least, make use of local and regional water saving rebate programs. Tampa Bay residents may check eligibility for indoor and outdoor rebates at <a href="http://www.tampabaywaterwise.org/">Tampa Bay Water Wise</a>
&nbsp;
Join us at our Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122;  April Classes 
4/12/22 Harnessing the Rain: Water Conservation Month Special <a href="https://bit.ly/Rain_FFL_April2022">Tickets</a>
4/29/22 Florida-Friendly Friday: Arbor Day Special <a href="https://bit.ly/ArborDay_FFL_April2022">Tickets </a>
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<a href="https://us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=5c234387965e7b49dd0e0c702&amp;id=e76c4fc200">Click here to join our mailing list</a>
<a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/files/2020/12/FFL-logo.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-8151 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="75" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellasco/files/2020/12/FFL-logo-300x75.png"></a>

Join us as we celebrate Water Conservation Month!
By Doris Heitzmann, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program Manager.

April and May are typically the driest months of the year in Central Florida. Making this the perfect time to reflect on our water use and how we can contribute to protecting our most precious resource.
There are many opportunities to reduce water use in and outside your home. When it comes to outdoor water conservation the University of Florida/IFAS recommends utilizing the Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™.
A few simple steps, such as selecting and planting drought tolerant native plants, collecting and using rainwater, and maintaining your sprinkler system for efficiency can result in tremendous water savings.
Speaking of Sprinkler or Irrigation Systems here are a few easy maintenance tips
time clock settings for proper runtime, frequency, and “hidden” runtimes.
irrigation system to ½ to ¾ inches application rate per irrigation event to apply the proper amount of water.
smart irrigation controller to avoid unnecessary irrigation events.
microirrigation in landscape beds.
Rainwater Harvesting: Participate in one of our monthly rainwater harvesting classes to learn how to use your rain barrel. Barrels are also made available for purchase.
Design your Landscape for drought by using drought tolerant and native plants.  Plant right before or during the rainy season for water conserving plant establishment.
Water Conservation Rebate Programs: Last but not least, make use of local and regional water saving rebate programs. Tampa Bay residents may check eligibility for indoor and outdoor rebates at Tampa Bay Water Wise
 
Join us at our Florida-Friendly Landscaping™  April Classes 
4/12/22 Harnessing the Rain: Water Conservation Month Special Tickets
4/29/22 Florida-Friendly Friday: Arbor Day Special Tickets 
 
Click here to join our mailing list

Join us as we celebrate Water Conservation Month! By Doris Heitzmann, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program Manager. April and May are typically the driest months of the year in Central Florida. Making this the perfect time to reflect on our water use and how we can contribute to protecting our most precious resource. There are many opportunities […]

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