Flats Alliance

A Collaboration Between BTT and Fisheries Conservation Foundation

Background

Anglers have recognized the need for information and its dissemination for a long time, and in 1998, Bonefish & Tarpon Tust was formed to organize their efforts to do what was needed to help conserve the flats ecosystems. Likewise, fisheries scientists have also been concerned for some time now that the scientific information generated from research studies was not finding its way into the decision-making process guiding future aquatic resource conservation. In 2003, scientists within the American Fisheries Society joined together with concerned anglers to form the Fisheries Conservation Foundation.

On August 9-10, 2005, members of BTT and members of FCF met with several fisheries scientists at the Cape Eleuthera Institute to explore the value of forming a partnership to address the impending issues. At this meeting, there was universal agreement that the best structure to enhance success of our future joint efforts was to form an Alliance between FCF and BTT that sustained the integrity/identity of the two organizations. Within this organizational structure, BTU would organize and oversee research activities, whereas FCF would organize and oversee education and outreach efforts. Such an Alliance would be in a better position to promote and support both research projects and education/outreach initiatives.

Alliance Structure

BTT Responsibilities

• Research Oversight
• Project Development
• Financial Support
• Project Execution
• Development of Research Projects 

FCF Responsibilities

• Education and Outreach
• Project Development
• Financial Support
• Project Execution
• Development of Education/Outreach Projects

Target Audience

• Anglers and Fishing Industry
• Government Agencies
• Public and Kids
• Policy Makers

 Research results and increased awareness results in

• Adaptive Management
• New Projects
• Increased Fundraising