CORAL REEF CONSERVATION NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

--Citizens invited to help finalize coral reef protection plan --

The Southeast Florida Action Strategy Team (SEFAST) will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 4 to receive input from the public on a plan to protect the coral reefs of southeast Florida, from Miami-Dade through Martin County.  Attendees will receive information about the current action plan and the opportunity to help finalize the strategy with their feedback.

Southeast Florida Coral Reef Initiative Public Meeting

Thursday, November 4, 2004

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

International Game Fish Association (IGFA)

300 Gulf Stream Way

Dania Beach, FL 33004

Citizens who cannot attend may submit their comments or suggestions by November 4, 2004 to:

Chantal Collier, Coral Reef Program Manager

chantal.collier@dep.state.fl.us

Biscayne Bay Environmental Center

1275A NE 79^th Street Causeway, Miami, FL 33138 

The Southeast Florida Coral Reef Initiative targets coral habitats which are close to shore, co-exist with intensely urbanized areas and lack a coordinated management plan. Coral reefs play a vital role in Florida’s ecosystem and the economy.  Reefs provide a unique resource for recreation, education, scientific research and public inspiration. Coral reefs support fisheries, providing habitat, food, and shelter to many species.  They also protect our coasts reducing wave energy from storms and hurricanes.

SEFAST was formed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with guidance from the United States Coral Reef Task Force.  SEFAST is defining key threats to coral habitats and developing projects to reduce those threats.

For additional information and the Local Action Strategy Draft (October 2004), visit: www.dep.state.fl.us/coastal/programs/coral/ .