Project Page

Habitat mapping to inform future survey efficiencies, management strategies, and climate change research

Implementing Organization

Nova Southeastern University (NSU)

Overview

DWH Project Funding

$293,202

Known Leveraged Funding

$0

Funding Organization

The U.S. Department of Treasury

Funding Program

The RESTORE Act Funds Bucket 5: Centers of Excellence Research Grant Program

Details

Project Category

Science

Project Actions

Environmental Research

Targeted Resources

Fish/Fish Habitats

Project Description

The continental shelf off Florida's west coast is a complex mosaic of essential fish habitats including seagrass beds and carbonate reef outcroppings (hard bottom). Habitat maps and fish community baseline data, however, do not exist for most of the region. This project will characterize and map continental shelf seagrass and hard bottom habitats in nearshore areas fished by many recreational fishermen. Outputs include: recommendations will be made as to how satellite data can best be utilized to improve habitat surveys' scope and efficiency; and first hard bottom habitat maps and baseline reef community characterizations for 1,600 square kilometers of the West Florida continental shelf off Tampa Bay.

Contact

Walker, Brian
954-262-3675
walkerb@nova.edu
Project Website
Project Partners

None

Affiliated Institutions

Location is center of study area

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