FY 2015-2016 Accomplishments

• Renewed permit for LAARS East reef site, and modified permits for the Casino Reef site. Six new artificial reefs were deployed in the Gulf of Mexico, and two new artificial reefs were deployed in the Park West Snorkeling Reef via public donations, thus at no cost to Escambia County.
• Initiated development of the design, engineering and permitting for a new public boat ramp on Perdido Bay, funded by a grant Marine Resources Division obtained from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
• Completed a number of Waterways Management projects including: development of a Best Available Science Tool for review of RESTORE Act project proposals, lionfish management, water monitoring for Red Tide, and removal of a derelict vessel. Marine Resources Division Manager serves as a representative on the Technical Committee for the Fish Hatchery to be constructed on Pensacola Bay, and on the U.S. Coast Guard’s Area Committee to maintain the Area Contingency Plan for oil spills.
• Completed several special projects including: served as Weigh-Master for six local fishing rodeos, participated in fishing and outdoor recreation events for youth, military, and under-served segments of the community.
• Managed the volunteer and intern program, providing experience in marine resources management to local college and university students and graduates.