Mosquito Lagoon project kicks off with interviews with anglers

Mosquito Lagoon, a part of the Indian River Lagoon system east of Titusville, is used annually by thousands of anglers as one of the country’s sportfishing hotspots, especially for redfish. The boating pressure has been extensive to the point that in some areas of the 17-mile long waterway the marine life and its habitat have been impacted, especially in shallow areas. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which manages the lagoon, created no-motor-polling-only zones with entry lanes for fishermen along portions of the east shore in an effort to reduce prop scaring from motorized boats.

Now Florida Sea Grant, in cooperation with the University of Central Florida and the University of Florida, is working on a campaign to increase environmentally responsible boating in the lagoon to help protect the marine species and their habitats. UCF NSC professor Denise DeLorme is the project’s lead researcher.

The researchers are asking fishermen, fishing guides and other recreational boaters to offer their experiences and views during focus group interviews. Interviews are planned to begin later this month with the dates and times based on the availability of the participants.

This will be the opportunity for guides and fishermen who are concerned about the future public use of Mosquito Lagoon to provide input. So, get involved.

Those interested should contact Denise DeLorme, the project’s lead researcher, at denise.delorme@ucf.edu, or research assistant Kamra Bowerman at k.bowerman@knights.ucf.edu. Culver can be reached at (321) 633-2016.

Read more about the project from Florida Today here.