Healthy Habitats = Healthy Fisheries

Welcome to the leaders in Bonefish, Tarpon and Permit research.

Bonefish and Tarpon Trust was started in 1977 by a group of six anglers that were concerned for the future of the bonefish fisheries in the Florida Keys. After witnessing the steady decline of native bonefish they took to action with concern about our fisheries. Their mission was to start working at the local level bringing in the University of Miami to start searching/researching for information about the flats habitats and the fish that live around them. Research led statistics helped BTT improve regulations on how to properly handle tarpon and works to protect and restore the vital habitats that these fish rely upon. BTT takes advantage of the local resources, using college institutions to further their expertise and knowledge of our fisheries.

During our "Monthly Cause" campaign in the month of April, MANG actively used BTT’s slogan Healthy Habitats = Healthy Fisheries. This is a message that MANG believes in and we stand behind. MANG started its habitat restorations four years ago with the knowledge that if we provide the habitat for nature, they will take full advantage of the resources. The ultimate understanding that both BTT and MANG take to the table, is that we must have a fully functioning ecosystems for all players to survive. Healthy Mangroves, Healthy Seagrass, Healthy Oysters and of course an adequate range of clean Freshwater flow to bring balance. These four pillars work together in unison and create the perfect balance for our fisheries to survive. The major contributor to ecosystem health is the range of Natural Fresh water flowing into estuaries, these areas where natural flow occurs have higher ecosystem

These ancient ecosystems have thrived on balance for ages, unfortunately when man began to develop land throughout Florida and the world we have begun to disturb these ecosystems. This has caused an imbalance and puts thousands of species at threat from declining habitat. We ask that all citizens stand up and be stewards for the land and its resources. Focusing on the future organizations like BTT and ourselves will only continue to grow and bring forward thinking people into the picture. We are here to stay, join the movement and support BTT and their international initiatives.

To find our more about BTT and its initiatives check out www.BTT.org.

Watch Aaron Adams and his educational piece about the Fix our Water initiative !