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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites you to participate in an upcoming virtual public workshop focused on potential updates to the Marine Special Activity License (SAL) program. Your input is valuable and will help shape future rule recommendations.
Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (EST)
Location: Statewide webinar (link will be available at MyFWC.com/SaltwaterWorkshops on the day of the event)
Workshop Focus:
FWC staff will present current regulations and seek public feedback on potential changes related to the collection of marine prohibited species for purposes such as exhibition, emergency response, and aquaculture research. Currently, marine prohibited species include marine organisms for which harvest, possession, or sale is prohibited by FWC rule or Chapter 379, Florida Statutes, such as giant manta ray, devil ray, tarpon, Goliath grouper, bonefish, and Bahama starfish.
Topics under consideration include:
This workshop is part of Phase III of a multi-phase effort to improve and streamline the Marine SAL program. A second workshop will be held on January 8, 2026, covering additional topics such as the Florida Marine Science Educator’s Association (FMSEA) Certification, tagging of marine organisms, and non-conforming gear SALs.
How to Participate: Visit MyFWC.com/SaltwaterWorkshops for webinar access details. You may also contact the Division of Marine Fisheries Management at (850) 487-0554 or email Marine@MyFWC.com for more information.
Accessibility: If you require special accommodations to participate, please notify FWC in advance by calling (850) 488-6411 or using the Florida Relay Service at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or 800-955-8770 (Voice).
Can’t attend? We still want to hear from you! Submit your comments online at MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments or email Marine@MyFWC.com.
We look forward to your participation and appreciate your engagement in shaping Florida’s marine conservation efforts.