Each year the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission closes portions of Florida waters to trapping of blue crabs for a 10-day period (read more about where and when at www.myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/trap-debris/ ). The purpose of these closures is to aid FWC in locating and removal derelict crab traps. In the Florida panhandle the removal period is from January 5 through January 15 during odd numbered years; as is the case with 2015. However FWC has completed their retrieval efforts for this year and so residents from the Alabama state line to the Franklin/Wakulla county line can place their traps back in the water beginning January 10.

If you do see what you believe to be a derelict trap in our area, or have questions about the program, please contact Rick O’Connor at the Escambia County Extension Office so it may recorded for the next event. (850) 475-5230; roc1@ufl.edu

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