Ecosystem Integration & Assessment

Our economy and quality of life depend on the health of coastal and marine ecosystems.  These are under increasing pressure from things like land development, pollution and recreational use.  Educate yourself!  Learn about the area where you live and the best practices for the water-related activities you enjoy.  GOMA information is not just for managers-it is for all those interested in a healthy Gulf of Mexico.

 
Going fishing?  Make sure you are familiar with seasonal variations in species catch and size limits.  Recycle your monofilament line in designated containers (or keep a tennis ball can on your boat and safely stow used line until it can be properly discarded). 

If you are a boater, learn about the habitat-props can damage manatee food (sea grass) as well as their backs; anchors dropped on sensitive bottom features like corals or live rock do serious damage. 

Going to the beach?  Properly dispose of trash.  If the designated bin is full, don’t set your trash by it-it will only blow into the water or surrounding area.  If you smoke, do not toss any portion of the cigarette in the sand.  Encourage your children to not use straws which can be harmful to sea life.  Cut plastic beverage rings before discarding to avoid harm to seabirds and marine animals.   

How are you impacting water quality in your area?    
Patronize businesses with nationally-, state- or locally-recognized “green” designations.  For example, Clean Marinas, “green” hotels and restaurants strive to minimize environmental impact.