State of Florida, Major Outdoor Groups Announce Public Support of Congresswoman Salazar’s Conservation Efforts
Miami, FL – This week, the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) as well as 12 sportsmen and conservation groups sent letters to the Senate and House Armed Services Committees advocating for the inclusion of Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (R-FL) REEF Act (H.R. 5306) in the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
“As a representative of a coastal district, I know first-hand that we must do more to support our marine ecosystems,” said Representative Salazar. “This bill’s passage would give us the opportunity to actively conserve one of our greatest natural resources, the sea, by giving our retired navy ships a new purpose, all while creating new recreational opportunities for fishermen and divers that boost local economies.”
"Reefing retired ships is a win for all parties,” said FWC Director of Marine Fisheries Management Jessica McCawley. “It is cheaper than scrapping, it provides habitat for fish, they are new underwater destinations for divers, the military legacy of these ships continues, and ships drive economic activity as Florida’s restaurants, bait shops, dive shops, hotels, and other small businesses serve customers every day.”
“By requiring Congress to report viable naval vessels for artificial reefing, the REEF Act will help create new marine ecosystems and recreational fishing opportunities,” read the industry letter. “Not only is this exciting legislation for marine life and anglers, but also for local economies that can benefit from the spending power of anglers.”
You can read both letters here and here.
Background:
The REEF Act was introduced in September of 2021 by Congresswoman Salazar and Congressman Ed Case (D-HI). The bill currently has 22 bipartisan cosponsors. If passed, the legislation would require the United States Navy to notify Congress when certain ships are being decommissioned. The Navy wouldthen be encouraged to explore and solicit artificial reefing opportunities for these vessels.
Along with the REEF Act, Congresswoman Salazar is co-leading the National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act (H.R. 6461). This landmark legislation would streamline the federal response to climate hazards threatening human health and well-being, critical infrastructure, and natural systems.
“Climate change is a real threat to South Florida, and Miami is ground zero for sea-level rise,” said Representative Salazar. “I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act, which will implement a much-needed strategy to build our resilience against hurricane damage, storm surges, and flooding while protecting Florida’s most vulnerable crown jewels like the Everglades. This bill will make communities across America much safer when natural disasters strike, allowing Florida to protect its citizens and environment.”
Additionally, in 2021 Congresswoman Salazar secured $1.15 million in federal funds to create the National Center for Education and Conservation of Florida’s Coral Reefs at the Frost Museum of Science in Miami. This project is set to create a new community-focused coral nursery and education center at the Frost Museum of Science, for research, education, and conservation work to save Florida's Coral Reefs.