Grant for Snook Stock Enhancement by Sen. Nix
State Rep. Danny Nix joined scientists, conservationists, and community leaders July 22 at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium’s Aquaculture Research Park to present a $250,000 check in support of Mote’s Strategic Snook Stock Enhancement Initiative, a program that recently released a record-setting 28,000 juvenile snook throughout Sarasota County estuaries.
The funds, included in this year’s state budget and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, will help Mote continue its groundbreaking work combining sustainable aquaculture, ecological research, and genetic innovation to protect Florida’s snook population and support the state’s multibillion-dollar recreational fishing industry.
“Florida’s future depends on how well we protect what makes our way of life so special like our waters, our wildlife, and our heritage,” said Rep. Nix. “Mote Marine Laboratory is leading the way with science and innovation, and I’m proud to support their mission. I want to thank Dr. Michael P. Crosby and his team for their invaluable contributions to our region and thank Governor DeSantis for recognizing the importance of preserving our natural resources for generations to come.”
“Mote Marine Laboratory is a world-class institution doing work that directly benefits our environment, our economy, and our quality of life,” said Senator Joe Gruters. “This investment helps ensure that Florida remains a leader in marine science and fisheries conservation for years to come.”
“Mote Marine Laboratory deeply appreciates the support of Representative Nix, Senator Gruters, and Governor DeSantis in our efforts to scale stock enhancement and provide innovative solutions to population depletion,” said Dr. Michael P. Crosby, President & CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory. “Through cutting-edge science and innovation, Mote is committed to advancing sustainable fisheries management and strengthening the economic future of Florida’s vital recreational fishing industry.”
Mote’s recent snook release marked the largest in program history, more than doubling its previous record. The effort reflects decades of research and serves as a national model for responsible, scalable marine stock enhancement. Juvenile fish are reared and acclimated at Mote’s inland aquaculture facility before being released into carefully selected estuarine habitats to bolster wild populations and support long-term fisheries management.
The Strategic Snook Stock Enhancement Initiative is a key part of Mote’s broader mission to restore marine ecosystems and strengthen Florida’s environmental and economic resilience.
