How the CCA is Turning the Tide for Conservation

Born out of the conservation concerns of local anglers, the Coastal Conservation Association's mission is to provide advice, education, and outreach to ensure the health of marine ecosystems. The CCA aims to make sure that the coastal resources of the Gulf Coast and Florida Bay areas are still around for present and future generations to enjoy. Back in 1977, recreational anglers worked to fight commercial overfishing of redfish and speckled trout populations. Their efforts that began with the campaign to "Save the Redfish" resulted in the outlawing of gill nets and the beginning of a new era in marine conservation. This nonprofit organization now works to educate the public and protect all that Florida's coasts have to offer. 

The CCA promotes conservation efforts in a number of ways, including artificial reef, clam, and oyster restoration projects. They post educational videos on topics like improving water quality. More importantly, the CCA keeps the public up-to-date on marine conservation focused legislation and regulation through the CCA National Newsroom. The CCA offers a Florida Youth Scholarship Program that gives highschool students the opportunity to tour marine facilities and meet with fishing industry professionals while competing for college scholarships. An interest in conservation among younger generations is fostered this way. The CCA's Florida STAR Program is also an opportunity to combine conservation and recreation, with an added bonus of scholarships and prizes.  This saltwater fishing competition is a great way to educate the public and have some fun at the same time.

The CCA works with other statewide sponsors and partners to fund and promote their outreach events and conservation projects. For example, together with the Building Conservation Trust, the CCA has contributed to and deployed over 20 artificial reef projects, and hope to continue this in the future. A full list of the artificial reefs under the CCA's belt so far can be found here. 

Through the amount of education and advocacy the CCA generates, marine conservation in Florida has experienced a major positive shift. The events it hosts brings people who care about the marine environment together and helps them work towards a common goal. Its unique blend of conservation efforts and recreational activities bring in donations and members who all want to help in some way. 

Check out the Florida chapter of the CCA at their website.