• coordinating nonnative species management and research to protect native species in Florida, focusing on prevention, early detection, and rapid response to introductions of nonnative species;
• developing and implementing species management plans for managing threatened species and implementing conservation programs that are designed to maintain Florida's unique wildlife diversity;
• directing, regulating, and distributing funds for the control of invasive plants on public conservation lands and in public water bodies for the protection of native plant and animal life, human health, safety, recreation, and property;
• implementing conservation programs for threatened species such as manatees, Florida panthers, and sea turtles to increase populations of these species;
• managing aquatic habitat for freshwater, estuarine, and marine systems to benefit the widest possible array of fish and wildlife;
• managing natural plant communities on public lands for diversity of wildlife species while providing quality recreational experiences;
• providing support and assistance for habitat-related issues to private and public sector landowners to inform and influence land and water use decisions affecting wildlife habitat management; and
• working in partnership with landowners to provide habitat for a diversity of species.

Endangered and Threatened Species Management. The commission, in conjunction with its partners, is implementing Florida's threatened species management system. The commission conducted status reviews of all listed species and developed Species Action Plans that were summarized in the Imperiled Species Management Plan. This plan provides regulatory and conservation information for 59 species. Implementation of identified species conservation actions is underway, including voluntary conservation measures, permitting guidelines, and filling management and information needs. The commission approved permitting guidelines for seven species during Fiscal Year 2019-20. Completion of guidelines for all species included in the plan is anticipated in 2021. 

Migratory Bird Protection. The commission implemented a new rule to regulate the use, placement, and possession of bird traps. Illegal trapping of native, protected birds has been occurring in Florida, particularly south Florida, where trapping is widespread and captured birds are often sold to buyers across the country and outside the United States. Although traps are often encountered in natural areas, without birds present in the traps, enforcement and trap removal was difficult. The new rule allows commission and other law enforcement to remove and confiscate traps and increases protection of native species.

Other Reports
Endangered and Threatened Species Management and Conservation Plan Report for Fiscal Year 2019-20, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, November 19, 2020.

Annual Report of Activities Conducted Under the Cooperative Aquatic Plant Control Program in Florida Public Waters for Fiscal Year 2019-20, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Save the Manatee Trust Fund Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2019-20, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Websites of Interest
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Inspector General
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Research Publications
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Strategic Plan
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Performance Information

Kipp Frohlich, Habitat and Species Conservation, 850-488-3831, email:  Kipp.frohlich@myfwc.com

Website