FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 12, 2013
Contact: Matt McCullough
SOUTHERLAND WELCOMES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR FLORIDA OYSTER FISHERY
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland, II today applauded the U.S. Department of Commerce’s declaration of a commercial fishery failure for Northwest Florida’s oyster fishery. The fishery disaster declaration enables Congress to provide economic relief desperately needed by fishing businesses and local communities, including Franklin County oystermen, who have been crippled by decreased water flows, drought, and increased water salinity.
“I am pleased that the Commerce Department has confirmed what the people of Franklin County have long known,” said Southerland. “Apalachicola Bay’s oyster industry has been decimated by a lethal combination of decreased water flows, drought, and increased water salinity, leaving this treasured community struggling to survive. Lives and livelihoods are on the line as we take the first step in helping these hardworking North Florida families receive the relief they so desperately need. I am committed to ensuring that the Apalachicola Bay fishery is healthy and the continued source of the best oysters in the world.”
Southerland joined U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson, as well as U.S. Reps. Jeff Miller and Richard Nugent, in authoring a September 2012 letter to Acting Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank urging the administration to honor Governor Scott’s disaster declaration request.
NOTE: To review the September 2012 letter to Acting Secretary Blank, please click here.
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