A new Sachs Media survey of 1,000 Florida voters finds 89 percent call Burmese pythons a serious problem and support state removal efforts, but fewer than one in 25 Floridians have ever taken part in python removal activities themselves.
FWC and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida are advancing Florida’s Coastal Corridor, a coordinated statewide initiative to link artificial reef habitat zones along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts to boost fisheries and expand public access to fishing and diving.
All 13 of Florida’s bat species are protected under state law, with roost exclusion prohibited from April 16 through August 14 to safeguard maternity colonies during pup-rearing season, according to FWC regulations covered in this report.
After Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission staff presented options on highly regulated black bear hunting and the public provided their comments at the August and November 2025 Commission meetings, FWC Commissioners approved final proposed amendments to bear hunting rules, which took effect during the 2025 hunting season.
The 2026 Florida Legislature is considering several bills that could affect wildlife and their habitats across the state.
By SUMMER LINDELIEN AND JOHN CIMBARO The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) created the Black Bass Management Plan in 2011. The goal of the plan is to ensure
By JAMES MOONEY I am filing legislation to update Florida’s official state bird from the Mockingbird to the Flamingo, while also designating the Florida Scrub-Jay as our state songbird. This
Submerged aquatic vegetation in the Lower St. Johns River has struggled since Hurricane Irma, with lower light and grazing slowing recovery. Recent plantings, clearer water and coordinated restoration work are helping eelgrass rebound in key areas. Long-term monitoring continues to guide the path toward recovery.
Lawmakers are moving through Interim Committee meetings with major questions ahead for the 2026 session. Budget pressure, property tax proposals, and the FWC bear hunt are expected to spark debate. Leadership has not yet outlined clear environmental priorities.
FWC’s State Reef Fish Survey, now in its fifth year, provides vital data on reef fish populations. With help from Florida anglers, the survey supports sustainable fishing and ensures species like snapper and grouper remain abundant for future generations.
The Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) recently convened to approve approximately 20 land management plans and updates to state land acquisition goals. With a focus on protecting Florida’s natural resources, the council discussed the 2024 acquisition list aimed at sustaining agricultural practices and preserving vital habitats for endangered species.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the Great Outdoors Initiative, offering 50 percent off Florida State Park passes and hunting and fishing licenses. The discounts are available from Oct. 14 through Jan. 13, 2024, aiming to encourage outdoor activities and promote the state’s natural beauty.
A new Sachs Media survey of 1,000 Florida voters finds 89 percent call Burmese pythons a serious problem and support state removal efforts, but fewer than one in 25 Floridians have ever taken part in python removal activities themselves.
FWC and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida are advancing Florida’s Coastal Corridor, a coordinated statewide initiative to link artificial reef habitat zones along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts to boost fisheries and expand public access to fishing and diving.
All 13 of Florida’s bat species are protected under state law, with roost exclusion prohibited from April 16 through August 14 to safeguard maternity colonies during pup-rearing season, according to FWC regulations covered in this report.
After Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission staff presented options on highly regulated black bear hunting and the public provided their comments at the August and November 2025 Commission meetings, FWC Commissioners approved final proposed amendments to bear hunting rules, which took effect during the 2025 hunting season.
The 2026 Florida Legislature is considering several bills that could affect wildlife and their habitats across the state.
By SUMMER LINDELIEN AND JOHN CIMBARO The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) created the Black Bass Management Plan in 2011. The goal of the plan is to ensure
By JAMES MOONEY I am filing legislation to update Florida’s official state bird from the Mockingbird to the Flamingo, while also designating the Florida Scrub-Jay as our state songbird. This
Submerged aquatic vegetation in the Lower St. Johns River has struggled since Hurricane Irma, with lower light and grazing slowing recovery. Recent plantings, clearer water and coordinated restoration work are helping eelgrass rebound in key areas. Long-term monitoring continues to guide the path toward recovery.
Lawmakers are moving through Interim Committee meetings with major questions ahead for the 2026 session. Budget pressure, property tax proposals, and the FWC bear hunt are expected to spark debate. Leadership has not yet outlined clear environmental priorities.
FWC’s State Reef Fish Survey, now in its fifth year, provides vital data on reef fish populations. With help from Florida anglers, the survey supports sustainable fishing and ensures species like snapper and grouper remain abundant for future generations.
The Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) recently convened to approve approximately 20 land management plans and updates to state land acquisition goals. With a focus on protecting Florida’s natural resources, the council discussed the 2024 acquisition list aimed at sustaining agricultural practices and preserving vital habitats for endangered species.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the Great Outdoors Initiative, offering 50 percent off Florida State Park passes and hunting and fishing licenses. The discounts are available from Oct. 14 through Jan. 13, 2024, aiming to encourage outdoor activities and promote the state’s natural beauty.
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