Miami, Fla. – In a step toward revitalizing Florida’s marine ecosystems, Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA Florida) partnered with the Duke Energy Mariculture Center to release 50,000 juvenile redfish into Biscayne Bay as part of the ongoing “Release the East” initiative. The event, held at Matheson Hammock Park, aimed to combat the declining redfish population along Florida’s East Coast, a species prized by anglers and vital to the region’s inshore fisheries.
The release featured hatchery-reared redfish, averaging 4 inches in length, carefully raised to thrive in their natural habitat. CCA Florida, the state’s leading advocate for marine fisheries conservation, education, and advocacy, has been working tirelessly with its partners to address the sharp decline in redfish numbers, driven by worsening water quality and habitat loss in recent years.
“Today’s release marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to restore and protect one of Florida’s most sought-after inshore species,” said Brian Gorski, CCA Florida’s Executive Director. “In collaboration with Duke Energy and CCA Florida’s Dade and Homestead Chapters, releasing 50,000 redfish in Biscayne Bay will help replenish this iconic fishery for today and future generations.”…