Do You Realize That You are a Manager of Florida's Protected Coastal Areas?

Well, you are! Most people don't realize that they share ownership and management responsibility for about 5 million acres of Florida with the Bureau of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA). These areas include lush coastal hammocks, bountiful estuaries and lagoons, crystal clear rivers and springs, and brightly colored coral reefs.

Continued use and enjoyment of these natural areas is up to you...

Sometimes it is as simple as each one of us doing things a little differently - like not pouring household chemicals down the drain. Sometimes complex issues arise and difficult decisions have to be made - like closing areas to vehicles or boats to protect fragile habitats. You can influence these decisions.

In the long run, Florida's environment cannot be protected by government alone - it will require each one of us sharing that responsibility.

Healthy ecosystems......

Control floods.

Purify drinking water.

Reduce the risk of wildfires.

Protect shorelines from erosion.

Sustain commercial and recreational activities.

Buffer against wind and water damage from storms.

Government alone cannot manage natural resources...

Resource managment works better when we work together. Whether in our homes or in our communities, acting responsibly will meet our needs for a healthy environment.

Balanced, common-sense management can happen only through partnerships. CAMA sites have established or want to develop volunteer programs, citizen support organizations, and partnerships with businesses, industries, other government agencies, and you.

Want to know more? The above information is contained in the brochure Coastal & Aquatic Managed Areas - Managing Ecosystems with your help Published by the Florida Department of Community Affairs, Florida Coastal Management Program. For more information please contace: Bureau of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd., MS 235, Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000 or call (850) 488-3456.


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