Aqua Essence

FSUCML's Conservation Lecture Series presents Lee Edminston-The Apalachicola River is part of the ACF water-shed, considered one of the more biologically diverse regions in all of North America. The river wends its way through exceptional terrain, from south Georgia to Apalachicola Bay on the northwest coast of Florida. This tremendously productive system is managed by the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, which was established in 1979 to serve as steward of the upland and aquatic resources to conserve both its ecological and economic values. The decline of oysters in Apalachicola Bay came as a surpise to many. It is attributed to a perfect storm of long term climatic change, human-induced water use and harvesting practices, and interjuris-dictional positioning. In this talk, you will hear about the current status of the oyster fishery, why it crashed, and what restoration efforts are in play. Come hear about these challenges from a man who has shown unflinching dedication to the well-being of Apalachicola Bay.