Florida Bass Conservation Center Bullet Points--2004


FLORIDA BASS CONSERVATION CENTER (FBCC) Discussion points Compiled by: Bob Wattendorf FIRST PUBLISHED SPRING 2004
This proposal would modernize Richloam Hatchery, in Sumter County, by creating a new Florida Bass Conservation Center (FBCC) to facilitate conservation of aquatic resources, including all aspects of bass management and research. Bass are the most popular sportfish in the world and in Florida roughly two-thirds to three-quarters of freshwater anglers primarily target bass. Based on the most recent National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation conducted by the US census bureau, the Florida freshwater recreational fishery annually generates approximately $1.4 billion in economic output, provides outdoor enjoyment for 1.14 million anglers, yields $37.4 million in taxes and provides 18,873 jobs. Highlights of the proposed Florida Bass Conservation Center include: A climate-controlled spawning facility. New raceways that can rear more fish per gallon of water. A genetics program to ensure protection of Florida largemouth, shoal and Suwannee basses, which are all native to Florida. FBCC will sponsor and conduct research on all aspects of bass. A visitor’s center will provide educational materials and on-site fishing lessons. An Internet resource will be used to provide comprehensive bass information. This project is expected to cost a total of $15 million to construct over a five-year timeframe. The first $10 million is needed for enhancements to the production facility and research laboratory, including pond modifications, plumbing, raceways, a genetics/disease lab, and the climate-controlled facility. The other $5 million is associated with the visitor’s center, fishing ponds, observation trails, educational displays, picnic pavilion and other amenities. Operational and maintenance costs are anticipated to be approximately $1.5 million per year and could be funded with a $5 bass stamp, if approved by the Legislature. 2003 Update Bass Values Bass Facts FBCC Proposal Update, by Herb Allen FBCC Funding Approved by FWC FBCC Economic Impact FBCC Power Point Presentation, by Ed Moyer (This is a large file viewed best with IE 4 or better) Make a Donation
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