Restocking Florida's Redfish

A Powerful Partnership for Conservation

Duke Energy Florida has been partnering with Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida, the state’s leading organization dedicated to marine fisheries conservation, education and advocacy, on a variety of conservation efforts to restore and improve Florida’s coastline since 2018. In January of this year, this partnership was formalized through a four-year collaborative agreement. Through their Release the East initiative, they recently restocked 90,000 juvenile redfish into coastal waters along Florida’s east coast. These efforts are vital in preserving marine life, maintaining healthy ecosystems, and ensuring future fishing opportunities for residents and tourists alike.

Why Are Redfish Important?

Redfish are one of Florida’s most sought-after game fish, attracting recreational anglers from across the country. However, recent declines in redfish populations due to environmental changes, habitat loss, and water quality issues have raised concerns. By restocking these fish, Duke Energy Florida and CCA Florida are helping to balance the ecosystem and sustain fishing traditions for future generations.

How the Restocking Works?

The redfish were bred and raised at Duke Energy’s Mariculture Center in Crystal River, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to preserving Florida’s aquatic species. On March 5, volunteers released 50,000 redfish into Biscayne Bay - the largest release of its kind in these waters in more than 30 years. Once the fish reached the appropriate size, they were transported and released into Biscayne Bay, Vero Beach, and Melbourne Beach.

The Benefits for Florida Residents

• A Thriving Fishing Community – Healthy fish populations support local businesses, including bait shops, charter services, and tourism, which play a vital role in Florida’s economy.
• Improved Water Quality – Healthy fish populations contribute to balanced ecosystems, which help maintain water quality and marine health.
• Recreational Enjoyment – Whether you're an experienced angler or just enjoy spending time near the water, these efforts help ensure Florida remains a top destination for fishing and outdoor activities.

Duke Energy's Commitment to Conservation

The Duke Energy Mariculture Center is a multispecies hatchery dedicated to restoring and preserving Florida’s precious ecosystem. The center has released over 5.3 million fish and crustaceans into Florida’s waters since 1991, along with 9 million individual plants for various springs, lakes and shoreline restoration projects. Their ability to pivot based on the needs of Florida’s ecosystem allows it to lead critical restoration efforts while partnering with leading state agencies, universities and non-governmental organizations (NGO) to revitalize natural systems around Florida to ensure longevity and resilience of our natural resources for generations.

How You Can Help?

Residents can contribute to conservation efforts by practicing responsible fishing, supporting local conservation initiatives, and staying informed about environmental policies. Every small action helps protect Florida’s natural resources for future generations.

Through projects like Release the East, Duke Energy Florida and CCA Florida are making a lasting impact on our coastal ecosystems. These efforts not only benefit the environment but also enhance the quality of life for Florida residents who depend on and enjoy these waters every day.