SEAFWA 2018

AUTHORS: Eric Suarez, Sarah Funck – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

ABSTRACT: There are more nonnative species occurring in Florida than anywhere else in the world. Many of these species can have a negative impact on Florida’s natural resources, economy, and human health and safety. Not all introduced nonnative species become invasive; however, it is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s (FWC NFWP) responsibility to minimize adverse impact by employing a suite of management strategies including prevention through regulation, risk assessment, early detection rapid response, control and monitoring tools, technical assistance and outreach, and innovative management techniques. Prevention is clearly the key to reducing new introductions and population establishment, thus the FWC NFWP uses public engagement to detect and remove invasive wildlife. For example, since 2012, the FWC NFWP and its partners have removed over 5,000 Argentine black and white tegus from South Florida. One hundred and ninety-seven tegus have been removed by citizen scientists/volunteers. Through coordination and collaboration with partnering agencies and entities, research is also contracted to help improve management techniques. Information on eradication efforts, current management projects, research, and outreach and education will be presented along with future directions moving forward.