CHAPTER 379

379.101 Definitions. In construing these statutes, where the context does not clearly indicate otherwise, the word, phrase, or term: (1) “Authorization” means a number issued by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or its authorized agent, which serves in lieu of a license or permits and affords the privilege purchased for a specified period of time. (2) “Beaches” and “shores” shall mean the coastal and intracoastal shoreline of this state bordering upon the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of America, the Straits of Florida, and any part thereof, and any other bodies of water under the jurisdiction of the State of Florida, between the mean high-water line and as far seaward as may be necessary to effectively carry out the purposes of this act. (3) “Closed season” shall be that portion of the year wherein the laws or rules of Florida forbid the taking of particular species of game or varieties of fish. (4) “Coastal construction” includes any work or activity which is likely to have a material physical effect on existing coastal conditions or natural shore processes. (5) “Commercial harvester” means any person, firm, or corporation that takes, harvests, or attempts to take or harvest saltwater products for sale or with intent to sell; that is operating under or is required to operate under a license or permit or authorization issued pursuant to this chapter; that is using gear that is prohibited for use in the harvest of recreational amounts of any saltwater product being taken or harvested; or that is harvesting any saltwater product in an amount that is at least two times the recreational bag limit for the saltwater product being taken or harvested. (6) “Commission” shall mean the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (7) “Common carrier” shall include any person, firm, or corporation, who undertakes for hire, as a regular business, to transport persons or commodities from place to place offering his or her services to all such as may choose to employ the common carrier and pay his or her charges. (8) “Coon oysters” are oysters found growing in bunches along the shore between high-water mark and low-water mark. (9) “Department” shall mean the Department of Environmental Protection. (10) “Erosion control,” “beach preservation,” and “hurricane protection” shall include any activity, work, program, project, or other thing deemed necessary by the Department of Environmental Protection to effectively preserve, protect, restore, rehabilitate, stabilize, and improve the beaches and shores of this state, as defined above. (11) “Exhibit” means to present or display upon request. (12) “Finfish” means any member of the classes Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, or Osteichthyes. (13) “Fish and game” means all fresh and saltwater fish, shellfish, crustacea, sponges, wild birds, and wild animals. (14) “Fish management area” means a pond, lake, or other water within a county, or within several counties, designated to improve fishing for public use, and established and specifically circumscribed for authorized management by the commission and the board of county commissioners of the county in which such waters lie, under agreement between the commission and an owner with approval by the board of county commissioners or under agreement with the board of county commissioners for use of public waters in the county in which such waters lie. (15) “Fish pond” means a body of water that does not occur naturally and that has been constructed and is maintained primarily for the purpose of fishing. (16) “Food fish” shall include mullet, trout, redfish, sheepshead, pompano, mackerel, bluefish, red snapper, grouper, black drum, jack crevalle, and all other fish generally used for human consumption. (17) “Fresh water,” except where otherwise provided by law, means all lakes, rivers, canals, and other waterways of Florida, to such point or points where the fresh and salt waters commingle to such an extent as to become unpalatable and unfit for human consumption because of the saline content, or to such point or points as may be fixed by order of the commission by and with the consent of the board of county commissioners of the county or counties to be affected by such order. The Steinhatchee River shall be considered fresh water from its source to mouth. (18) “Freshwater fish” means all classes of pisces that are native to fresh water. (19) “Fur-bearing animals” means muskrat, mink, raccoon, otter, civet cat, skunk, red and gray fox, and opossum. (20) “Game” means deer, bear, squirrel, rabbits, and, where designated by commission rules, wild hogs, ducks, geese, rails, coots, gallinules, snipe, woodcock, wild turkeys, grouse, pheasants, quail, and doves. (21) “Guide” shall include any person engaged in the business of guiding hunters or hunting parties, fishers or fishing parties, for compensation. (22) “Marine fish” means any saltwater species of finfish of the classes Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, and Osteichthyes and marine invertebrates of the classes Gastropoda and Bivalvia, the subphylum Crustacea, or the phylum Echinodermata; however, the term does not include nonliving shells or echinoderms. (23) “Molest,” in connection with any fishing trap or its buoy or buoy line, means to touch, bother, disturb, or interfere or tamper with, in any manner. (24) A “natural oyster or clam reef” or “bed” or “bar” shall be considered and defined as an area containing not less than 100 square yards of the bottom where oysters or clams are found in a stratum. (25) “Nongame” means all species and populations of native wild vertebrates and invertebrates in the state that are not defined as game. (26) “Nonresident alien” shall mean those individuals from other nations who can provide documentation from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services evidencing permanent residency status in the United States. For the purposes of this chapter, a “nonresident alien” shall be considered a “nonresident.” (27) “Open season” shall be that portion of the year wherein the laws of Florida for the preservation of fish and game permit the taking of particular species of game or varieties of fish. (28) “Private hunting preserve” includes any area set aside by a private individual or concern on which artificially propagated game or birds are taken. (29) “Reef bunch oysters” are oysters found growing on the bars or reefs in the open bay and exposed to the air between high and low tide. (30) “Resident” or “resident of Florida” means: (a) For purposes of part VII, a citizen of the United States who has continuously resided in this state for 1 year before applying for a hunting, fishing, or other license. However, for purposes of ss. 379.363, 379.364, 379.3711, 379.3712, 379.372, 379.373, 379.374, 379.3751, 379.3752, 379.3761, and 379.3762, the term means a citizen of the United States who has continuously resided in this state for 6 months before applying for a hunting, fishing, or other license. (b) For purposes of part VI: 1. A member of the United States Armed Forces who is stationed in the state and his or her family members residing with such member; or 2. A person who has declared Florida as his or her only state of residence as evidenced by a valid Florida driver license or identification card that has both a Florida address and a Florida residency verified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, or, in the absence thereof, one of the following: a. A current Florida voter information card; b. A sworn statement manifesting and evidencing domicile in Florida in accordance with s. 222.17; c. Proof of a current Florida homestead exemption; or d. For a child younger than 18 years of age, a student identification card from a Florida school or, if accompanied by his or her parent at the time of purchase, the parent’s proof of residency. (31) “Resident alien” means a person who has continuously resided in this state for at least 1 year and can provide documentation from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services evidencing permanent residency status in the United States. For the purposes of this chapter, a “resident alien” is considered a “resident.” (32) “Restricted species” means any species of saltwater products which the state by law, or the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission by rule, has found it necessary to so designate. The term includes a species of saltwater products designated by the commission as restricted within a geographical area or during a particular time period of each year. Designation as a restricted species does not confer the authority to sell a species pursuant to s. 379.361 if the law or rule prohibits the sale of the species. (33) “Salt water,” except where otherwise provided by law, shall be all of the territorial waters of Florida excluding all lakes, rivers, canals, and other waterways of Florida from such point or points where the fresh and salt waters commingle to such an extent as to become unpalatable because of the saline content, or from such point or points as may be fixed for conservation purposes by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, with the consent and advice of the board of county commissioners of the county or counties to be affected. (34) “Saltwater fish” means: (a) Any saltwater species of finfish of the classes Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, or Osteichthyes and marine invertebrates of the classes Gastropoda and Bivalvia, the subphylum Crustacea, or the phylum Echinodermata; however, the term does not include nonliving shells or echinoderms; and (b) All classes of pisces, shellfish, sponges, and crustaceans native to salt water. (35) “Saltwater license privileges,” except where otherwise provided by law, means any license, endorsement, certificate, or permit issued pursuant to this chapter. (36) “Saltwater products” means any species of saltwater fish, marine plant, or echinoderm, except shells, and salted, cured, canned, or smoked seafood. (37) “Shellfish” shall include oysters, clams, and whelks. (38) “Take” means taking, attempting to take, pursuing, hunting, molesting, capturing, or killing any wildlife or freshwater or saltwater fish, or their nests or eggs, by any means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such wildlife or freshwater or saltwater fish or their nests or eggs. (39) “Transport” shall include shipping, transporting, carrying, importing, exporting, receiving or delivering for shipment, transportation or carriage or export. History. — s. 2, ch. 28145, 1953; s. 1, ch. 63-40; s. 1, ch. 65-140; ss. 25, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 127, ch. 71-377; s. 1, ch. 78-56; s. 76, ch. 79-164; s. 1, ch. 85-234; s. 1, ch. 87-116; s. 4, ch. 88-412; s. 1, ch. 89-270; s. 4, ch. 90-310; s. 4, ch. 93-223; s. 192, ch. 94-356; s. 979, ch. 95-148; s. 1, ch. 96-300; s. 2, ch. 98-203; s. 1, ch. 98-227; s. 94, ch. 99-245; s. 7, ch. 2003-143; s. 34, ch. 2004-5; s. 1, ch. 2006-304; s. 3, ch. 2008-247; s. 8, ch. 2010-185; s. 3, ch. 2013-194; s. 12, ch. 2014-136; s. 9, ch. 2022-142; s. 48, ch. 2025-8. Note. — Former s. 370.01. 379.102 Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (1) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall consist of seven members who shall be appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Senate, for staggered terms of 5 years. (2) Members so appointed shall annually select one of their members as chair. Such chair may be removed at any time for sufficient cause, by the affirmative vote of the majority of the members of the commission. In case the said office of chair becomes vacant by removal or otherwise, the same may be filled for the unexpired term at any time by the commission from its members. (3) Commission members shall receive no compensation for their services as such, but shall be reimbursed for travel expenses as provided in s. 112.061. History. — s. 2, ch. 13644, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17016, 1935; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(2); s. 1, ch. 26766, 1951; s. 19, ch. 63-400; s. 105, ch. 71-355; s. 1, ch. 78-125; s. 567, ch. 95-148; s. 113, ch. 99-245; s. 4, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.01. 379.1025 Powers, duties, and authority of commission; rules, regulations, and orders. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may exercise the powers, duties, and authority granted by s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution, and as otherwise authorized by the Legislature by the adoption of rules, regulations, and orders in accordance with chapter 120. History. — ss. 4, 5, ch. 21945, 1943; s. 7, ch. 69-216; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 103, ch. 73-333; s. 16, ch. 78-95; s. 17, ch. 2000-197; s. 5, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.82; s. 372.021. 379.10255 Headquarters of commission. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is located at the state capital, and, when suitable adequate office space cannot be provided in the State Capitol Building, or other buildings owned by the state, the commission may rent or lease suitable office space in Tallahassee. Said commission may also rent or lease suitable and adequate space in other cities and towns of the state for branch or division offices and headquarters and storerooms for equipment and supplies, as the business of the commission may require or necessitate, payment for said rented or leased premises to be made from the State Game Trust Fund. History. — s. 2, ch. 13644, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17016, 1935; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(2); s. 2, ch. 61-119; s. 119, ch. 99-245; s. 6, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.03. 379.1026 Site-specific location information for endangered and threatened species; public records exemption. The site-specific location information held by an agency as defined in s. 119.011 concerning an endangered species as defined in s. 379.2291(3)(b), a threatened species as defined in s. 379.2291(3)(c), or a species listed by a federal agency as endangered or threatened, is exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution. This exemption does not apply to the site-specific location information of animals held in captivity. History. — s. 1, ch. 2020-129; s. 1, ch. 2025-25. 379.103 Duties of executive director. The executive director of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall: (1) Keep full and correct minutes of the proceedings of said commission at its meetings, which minutes shall be open for public inspection. (2) Purchase such supplies and employ such help and assistants as may be reasonably necessary in the performance of the executive director’s duties. (3) Have full authority to represent the commission in its dealings with other state departments, county commissioners, and the Federal Government. (4) Appoint, fix salaries of, and at pleasure remove, subject to the approval of the commission, assistants and other employees who shall have such powers and duties as may be assigned to them by the commission or executive director. (5) Have such other powers and duties as may be prescribed by the commission in pursuance of its duties under s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution. History. — ss. 2, 3, ch. 13644, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17016, 1935; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(2), 1977(3); s. 3, ch. 26766, 1951; s. 7, ch. 69-216; s. 569, ch. 95-148; s. 18, ch. 2000-197; s. 38, ch. 2002-46; s. 7, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.05. 379.104 Right to hunt and fish. The Legislature recognizes that hunting, fishing, and the taking of game are a valued part of the cultural heritage of Florida and should be forever preserved for Floridians. The Legislature further recognizes that these activities play an important part in the state’s economy and in the conservation, preservation, and management of the state’s natural areas and resources. Therefore, the Legislature intends that the citizens of Florida have a right to hunt, fish, and take game, subject to the regulations and restrictions prescribed by general law and by s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution. History. — s. 8, ch. 2002-46; s. 8, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.002. 379.105 Harassment of hunters, trappers, or fishers. (1) A person may not intentionally, within or on any public lands or publicly or privately owned wildlife management and fish management areas, or in or on any public waters: (a) Interfere with or attempt to prevent the lawful taking of fish, game, or nongame animals by another within or on such lands or areas, or in or on such waters. (b) Attempt to disturb fish, game, or nongame animals or attempt to affect their behavior with the intent to prevent their lawful taking by another within or on such lands or areas, or in or on such waters. (2) Any person who violates this section commits a Level Two violation under s. 379.401. History. — s. 2, ch. 90-170; s. 27, ch. 2006-304; s. 9, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2020-123. Note. — Former s. 372.705. 379.106 Administration of commission grant programs. (1) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized to establish grant programs that are consistent with statutory authority and legislative appropriations. The commission is further authorized to receive funds from any legal source for purposes of matching state dollars or for passing through the agency as grants to other entities whether or not matching funds or in-kind matches are required. (2) For any grant program established by the commission, the commission shall adopt rules, pursuant to the requirements of chapter 120, for each grant program which shall include, but are not limited to: the method or methods of payment; the supporting documents required before payment will be made; when matching funds or in-kind matches are allowed; what moneys, services, or other sources and amounts of matching funds or in-kind matches will be eligible for use for matching the grant by the commission; who is eligible to participate in the program; and other provisions that the commission finds necessary to achieve program objectives and an accounting for state funds in accordance with law and generally accepted accounting principles. (3) The commission is authorized to preaudit or postaudit account books and other documentation of a grant recipient to assure that grant funds have been used in accordance with the terms of the grant and state rules and statutes. When such audit reveals that moneys have not been spent in accordance with grant requirements, the commission may withhold moneys or recover moneys previously paid. A grant recipient will be allowed a maximum of 60 days to submit any additional pertinent documentation to offset the amount identified as being due the commission. History. — s. 2, ch. 83-225; s. 198, ch. 94-356; s. 237, ch. 99-245; s. 10, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 370.023. 379.107 Residential conservation programs. The commission may organize, staff, equip, and operate residential conservation programs to provide fish and wildlife conservation education and training programs to the public, commission employees, and volunteers. To assist in carrying out the operation of the residential conservation programs, the commission may establish cooperative efforts involving federal, state, and local entities; may procure commodities and contractual services, including travel, lodging, meals and meal services; and may hire and train appropriate personnel and volunteers. History. — s. 1, ch. 2019-20. 379.201 Administrative Trust Fund. (1) The Administrative Trust Fund is created within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2) The fund is established for use as a depository for funds to be used for management activities that are commissionwide in nature and funded by indirect cost earnings or assessments against trust funds. Moneys to be credited to the trust fund include indirect cost reimbursements from grantors, administrative assessments against trust funds, interest earnings, and other appropriate administrative fees. History. — s. 1, ch. 2005-18; s. 2, ch. 2008-21; s. 11, ch. 2008-247; s. 13, ch. 2010-4. Note. — Former s. 372.101. 379.203 Dedicated License Trust Fund. (1) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Dedicated License Trust Fund. The fund shall be credited with moneys collected pursuant to s. 379.354 for 5-year licenses and permits and replacement 5-year licenses. (2)(a) One-fifth of the total proceeds from the sale of 5-year hunting and freshwater fishing licenses, permits, and replacement licenses, and all interest derived therefrom, shall be appropriated annually to the State Game Trust Fund. (b) One-fifth of the total proceeds from the sale of 5-year saltwater fishing licenses, permits, and replacement licenses, and all interest derived therefrom, shall be appropriated annually to the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund. (3) The fund shall be exempt from the provisions of s. 215.20. History. — s. 2, ch. 91-78; s. 126, ch. 99-245; s. 10, ch. 2002-46; s. 13, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.106. 379.204 Federal Grants Trust Fund. (1) The Federal Grants Trust Fund is created within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2) The fund is established for use as a depository for funds to be used for allowable grant activities funded by restricted program revenues. Moneys to be credited to the trust fund shall consist of grants and funding from the Federal Government, interest earnings, and cash advances from other trust funds. History. — s. 1, ch. 2005-19; s. 2, ch. 2008-22; s. 14, ch. 2008-247; s. 14, ch. 2010-4; s. 40, ch. 2011-47; s. 6, ch. 2016-11. Note. — Former s. 372.102. 379.205 Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund. (1) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the purposes of this section. (2) The commission shall spend money from the fund and all interest derived from its investments and reinvestments only for the following purposes: (a) To manage and protect existing Florida panther populations by increasing panther food sources where food is a limiting factor, determining conflicts between public use and panther survival, maintaining sufficient genetic variability in existing populations, and undertaking management and enforcement activities that protect panther habitat. (b) To educate the public concerning the value of the panther and the necessity for panther management. (c) To reestablish Florida panthers into areas of suitable habitat, where feasible, by assessing the necessity of a captive breeding program for purposes of reintroduction of the panthers into the suitable habitat; selecting potential sites for reintroduction and investigating associated human sociological aspects; and assessing the potential for panther habitat acquisition. (d) For Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission administrative costs and for the promotion and marketing of the Florida panther license plate as authorized under s. 320.08058. (3) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized to receive donations for deposit into the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund. History. — ss. 2, 4, ch. 83-173; s. 26, ch. 97-153; s. 1, ch. 97-259; s. 3, ch. 98-333; s. 16, ch. 99-4; s. 149, ch. 99-245; s. 5, ch. 2005-158; s. 18, ch. 2007-223; s. 15, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2021-54. Note. — Former s. 372.672. 379.206 Grants and Donations Trust Fund. (1) The Grants and Donations Trust Fund is created within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2) The fund is established for use as a depository for funds to be used for allowable grant and donor agreement activities. Moneys to be credited to the trust fund shall consist of grants and donations from private and public nonfederal sources, development-of-regional-impact wildlife mitigation contributions, interest earnings, and cash advances from other trust funds. (3) If acquisition pursuant to this section will result in state ownership of land, title shall be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund as required in chapter 253. Land acquisition pursuant to this section shall be voluntary, negotiated acquisition and, if title is to be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, is subject to the acquisition procedures of s. 253.025. History. — s. 1, ch. 2005-20; s. 2, ch. 2008-23; s. 16, ch. 2008-247; s. 15, ch. 2010-4; s. 59, ch. 2015-229; s. 1, ch. 2025-32. Note. — Former s. 372.103. 379.207 Lifetime Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund. (1) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Lifetime Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund to be used for the purpose of supporting fish and wildlife conservation programs of the state in accordance with this section. (2) The principal of the fund shall be derived from the following: (a) Proceeds of any gifts, grants, and contributions to the state which are specifically designated for inclusion in the fund. (b) Proceeds from the sale of lifetime licenses issued in accordance with s. 379.354. (3) The fund is declared to constitute a special trust derived from a contractual relationship between the state and the members of the public whose investments contribute to the fund. In recognition of such special trust, the following limitations and restrictions are placed on expenditures from the funds: (a) No expenditure or disbursement shall be made from the principal of the fund. (b) The interest income received and accruing from the investments of proceeds from the sale of lifetime freshwater fishing licenses and lifetime hunting licenses shall be spent in furtherance of the commission’s management, protection, and conservation of wild animal life and freshwater aquatic life as set forth in s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution and this chapter and as otherwise authorized by the Legislature. (c) The interest income received and accruing from the investments of proceeds from the sale of lifetime saltwater fishing licenses shall be expended for marine law enforcement, marine research, and marine fishery enhancement. (d) Any limitations or restrictions specified by the donors on the uses of the interest income derived from gifts, grants, and voluntary contributions shall be respected but shall not be binding. (e) The fund shall be exempt from the provisions of s. 215.20. (4) In the event of a future dissolution or reorganization of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, any state agency which succeeds the commission or assumes its constitutional or statutory responsibilities shall, through its agency head acting ex officio, assume the trusteeship of the fund and shall be bound by all the limitations and restrictions placed by this section on expenditures from the fund. No repeal or modification of this chapter or s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution shall alter the fundamental purposes to which the fund may be applied. No dissolution or reorganization of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall invalidate any lifetime license issued in accordance with this section. History. — s. 1, ch. 91-78; s. 125, ch. 99-245; s. 9, ch. 2002-46; s. 17, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2013-22. Note. — Former s. 372.105. 379.208 Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund; purposes. (1) The Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall serve as a broad-based depository for funds from various marine-related and boating-related activities. The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the trust fund and shall administer the trust fund for the purposes of: (a) Funding for marine research. (b) Funding for fishery enhancement, including, but not limited to, fishery statistics development, artificial reefs, and fish hatcheries. (c) Funding for marine law enforcement. (d) Funding for administration of licensing programs for recreational fishing, saltwater products sales, and related information and education activities. (e) Funding for the operations of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (f) Funding for titling and registration of vessels. (g) Funding for marine turtle protection, research, and recovery activities from revenues that are specifically credited to the trust fund for these purposes. (h) Funding activities for rehabilitation of oyster harvesting areas from which special oyster surcharge fees are collected, including relaying and transplanting live oysters. (i) Funding for boating research, boating-related programs and activities, and for law enforcement on state waters. (j) Funding for the stone crab trap reduction program under s. 379.365, the blue crab effort management program under s. 379.366, the spiny lobster trap certificate program under s. 379.3671, and the trap retrieval program under s. 379.2424. (2) The Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund shall receive the proceeds from: (a) All license fees collected pursuant to ss. 379.361 and 379.362. (b) All funds collected from the registration of vessels and other fees pursuant to s. 328.72. (c) All fees collected under ss. 379.2424, 379.357, 379.365, 379.366, and 379.3671. (d) All fines and penalties under ss. 379.365, 379.366, 379.3671, and 379.407. (e) Other revenues as provided by law. (3) Funds provided to the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund from vessel registration fees pursuant to s. 328.76 may be used for the following purposes: (a) To reimburse the cost of activities authorized pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Service of the United States Department of the Interior. The facilities must be involved in the actual rescue and full-time acute care veterinarian-based rehabilitation of manatees. The cost of activities includes, but is not limited to, costs associated with expansion, capital outlay, repair, maintenance, and operation related to the rescue, treatment, stabilization, maintenance, release, and monitoring of manatees. Moneys distributed through the contractual agreement to each facility for manatee rehabilitation must be proportionate to the number of manatees under acute care rehabilitation; the number of maintenance days medically necessary in the facility; and the number released during the previous fiscal year. The commission may set a cap on the total amount reimbursed per manatee per year. (b) For training on the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of marine mammals at the Whitney Laboratory and the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida. (c) For program administration costs of the agency. (4) Funds transferred to the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund from the Fuel Tax Collection Trust Fund pursuant to s. 206.606 shall be used for the following purposes: (a) To provide additional water-related law enforcement positions within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission primarily for the purpose of enforcing laws designed to protect manatee populations. Law enforcement positions funded under this provision shall be assigned to counties having the highest incidence of manatee deaths and injuries. (b) For the placement of uniform waterway markers on state waters. (c) To provide funding for construction and maintenance of publicly owned boat ramps, piers, and docks, directly and through grants to counties and municipalities. (d) To implement and administer programs related to boating safety and education, manatee technical avoidance technology, and economic development initiatives to promote boating in the state, including competitive grants programs as provided in s. 327.47. (e) For other activities of the Boating and Waterways Section such as coordinating the submission of state comments on boating-related events. Funds not used in one fiscal year must be carried over for use in subsequent years. History. — s. 24, ch. 96-321; s. 59, ch. 99-245; s. 34, ch. 99-289; s. 35, ch. 2000-197; s. 2, ch. 2001-62; s. 51, ch. 2002-1; s. 4, ch. 2002-46; s. 4, ch. 2003-156; s. 3, ch. 2004-264; s. 5, ch. 2007-223; s. 10, ch. 2008-114; s. 18, ch. 2008-247; s. 2, ch. 2012-95; s. 13, ch. 2014-136; s. 2, ch. 2021-54. Note. — Former s. 370.0603. 379.209 Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. (1) The Legislature recognizes the value of maintaining ecologically healthy and stable populations of a wide diversity of fish and wildlife species and recognizes the need for monitoring, research, management, and public awareness of all wildlife species in order to guarantee that self-sustaining populations be conserved. The Legislature further recognizes that research and management for game species traditionally have been supported by licenses and fees collected by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for consumptive uses of wildlife and that no such support mechanism is available for species not commonly pursued for sport or profit. It is the intent of the Legislature that the funds provided herein be spent to identify and meet the needs of nongame wildlife as a first priority with the ultimate goal of establishing an integrated approach to the management and conservation of all native fish, wildlife, and plants. (2)(a) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. The fund shall be credited with moneys collected pursuant to ss. 319.32(3) and 320.02(8). Additional funds may be provided from legislative appropriations and by donations from interested individuals and organizations. The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. (b) Proceeds from the trust fund must be used for the following purposes: 1. Documentation of population trends of nongame wildlife and assessment of wildlife habitat, in coordination with the database of Florida natural areas inventory. 2. Establishment of effective conservation, management, and regulatory programs for nongame wildlife of this state. 3. Public education programs. 4. Law enforcement. (3) The commission may enter into cooperative agreements, voluntary agreements, or memoranda of understanding with related agencies and private landowners to coordinate nongame programs. History. — s. 1, ch. 83-173; s. 1, ch. 84-194; s. 184, ch. 99-245; s. 21, ch. 2000-197; s. 19, ch. 2008-247; s. 52, ch. 2009-86; s. 30, ch. 2012-119; s. 8, ch. 2014-18; s. 3, ch. 2021-54; s. 2, ch. 2025-32. Note. — Former s. 372.991. 379.211 State Game Trust Fund. The funds resulting from the operation of the commission and from the administration of the laws and regulations pertaining to birds, game, fur-bearing animals, freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians, together with any other funds specifically provided for such purposes, shall constitute the State Game Trust Fund and shall be used by the commission as it shall deem fit, including the investment and reinvestment of the funds and the interest thereof, for the purpose of carrying out this section. The annual use fees deposited into the trust fund from the sale of the Largemouth Bass license plate may be expended for the purposes provided under s. 320.08058(17). The commission may not obligate itself beyond the current resources of the State Game Trust Fund unless specifically so authorized by the Legislature. History. — s. 13, ch. 13644, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17016, 1935; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(3); s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 14, ch. 2007-223; s. 78, ch. 2008-4; s. 20, ch. 2008-247; s. 4, ch. 2021-54. Note. — Former s. 372.09. 379.212 Land Acquisition Trust Fund. (1)(a) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Land Acquisition Trust Fund to implement s. 28, Art. X of the State Constitution. (b) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or its designee shall manage such lands for the primary purpose of maintaining and enhancing their habitat value for fish and wildlife. Other uses may be allowed that are not contrary to this purpose. (c) Where acquisition pursuant to this section will result in state ownership of land, title shall be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund as required in chapter 253. Land acquisition pursuant to this section shall be voluntary, negotiated acquisition and, where title is to be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, is subject to the acquisition procedures of s. 253.025. (d) Acquisition costs shall include purchase prices and costs and fees associated with title work, surveys, and appraisals required to complete an acquisition. (2) The fund may be credited with funds transferred from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund within the Department of Environmental Protection as provided in s. 375.041. (3) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall maintain the integrity of such moneys transferred from the Department of Environmental Protection. Any transferred moneys available from reversions and reductions in budget authority shall be transferred back to the Land Acquisition Trust Fund in the Department of Environmental Protection within 15 days after such reversion or reduction and must be available for future appropriation pursuant to s. 28, Art. X of the State Constitution. History. — s. 20, ch. 90-136; s. 10, ch. 90-217; s. 2, ch. 90-227; s. 20, ch. 94-240; s. 17, ch. 94-265; s. 124, ch. 99-245; s. 21, ch. 2008-247; s. 2, ch. 2013-22; s. 60, ch. 2015-229. Note. — Former s. 372.074. 379.213 Save the Manatee Trust Fund. (1) The Save the Manatee Trust Fund shall be administered by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2) The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the Save the Manatee Trust Fund. Funds to be credited to and uses of the trust fund shall be administered in accordance with ss. 320.08058, 328.66, 328.72, 328.74, 328.76, and 379.2431. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may receive donations for deposit into the Save the Manatee Trust Fund. (3) Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of the trust fund. History. — s. 3, ch. 2013-22; s. 5, ch. 2021-54. 379.214 Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund. (1) The Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund shall be administered by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2) The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund. Funds to be credited to and uses of the trust fund shall be administered in accordance with ss. 206.606, 328.76, 369.20, 369.22, 369.252, and 379.502 and may also be used for commission administrative costs. (3) Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of the trust fund. History. — s. 4, ch. 2013-22; s. 62, ch. 2015-229; s. 7, ch. 2021-54. 379.2201 Deposit of license fees; allocation of federal funds. (1) Except as provided in ss. 379.203 and 379.207, all saltwater license and permit fees collected pursuant to s. 379.354 shall be deposited into the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund, to be used as follows: (a) Not more than 7.5 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for administration of the licensing program and for information and education. (b) Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for law enforcement. (c) Not less than 32.5 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for marine research and management. (d) Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected, for fishery enhancement, including, but not limited to, fishery statistics development, artificial reefs, and fish hatcheries. (2) The proceeds from recreational saltwater fishing license fees paid by fishers shall only be appropriated to the commission. (3) Funds available from the Wallop-Breaux Aquatic Resources Trust Fund shall be distributed by the commission between freshwater fisheries management and research and marine fisheries management and research in proportion to the numbers of resident fresh and saltwater anglers as determined by the most current data on license sales. Unless otherwise provided by federal law, the commission, at a minimum, shall provide the following: (a) Not less than 5 percent or more than 10 percent of the funds allocated to the commission shall be expended for an aquatic resources education program; and (b) Not less than 10 percent of the funds allocated to the commission shall be expended for acquisition, development, renovation, or improvement of boating facilities. History. — s. 7, ch. 89-270; s. 6, ch. 90-243; s. 13, ch. 91-78; s. 212, ch. 94-356; s. 985, ch. 95-148; s. 5, ch. 96-300; s. 25, ch. 96-321; s. 4, ch. 98-203; s. 42, ch. 99-245; s. 17, ch. 2002-46; s. 10, ch. 2004-264; s. 1, ch. 2007-337; s. 22, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 370.0608; s. 372.5701. 379.2202 Expenditure of funds. Any moneys available pursuant to s. 379.2201(1)(c) may be expended by the commission within Florida through grants and contracts for research with research institutions including but not limited to: Florida Sea Grant; Florida Marine Resources Council; Harbour Branch Oceanographic Institute; Fish and Wildlife Research Institute of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; Mote Marine Laboratory; Marine Resources Development Foundation; Florida Institute of Oceanography; Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science; and Smithsonian Marine Station at Ft. Pierce. History. — s. 10, ch. 89-270; s. 213, ch. 94-356; s. 26, ch. 96-321; s. 240, ch. 99-245; s. 18, ch. 2002-46; s. 11, ch. 2004-264; s. 23, ch. 2008-247; s. 2, ch. 2013-235. Note. — Former s. 370.0609; s. 372.5702. 379.2203 Disposition of fines, penalties, and forfeitures. (1) All moneys collected from fines, penalties, proceeds from unclaimed bonds, or forfeitures of bail of persons convicted under this chapter shall be deposited in the fine and forfeiture fund established pursuant to s. 142.01 where such convictions are had, except for the disposition of moneys as provided in subsection (2). (2) All moneys collected from fines, penalties, or forfeitures of bail of persons convicted of violations of rules, regulations, or orders of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission concerning endangered or threatened species or of violation of s. 379.3014, s. 379.409, or s. 379.4115 shall be remitted by the clerk of the court to the Department of Revenue to be deposited in the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. History. — s. 12, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(12); s. 2, ch. 61-119; s. 1, ch. 70-370; s. 3, ch. 79-217; s. 2, ch. 81-191; s. 19, ch. 94-265; s. 156, ch. 99-245; s. 4, ch. 2000-153; s. 15, ch. 2001-122; s. 66, ch. 2004-265; s. 54, ch. 2005-236; s. 24, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.72. 379.2213 Management area permit revenues. The commission shall expend the revenue generated from the sale of the management area permit as provided for in s. 379.354(8)(g) or that pro rata portion of any license that includes management area privileges as provided for in s. 379.354(4)(h), (i), and (j) for the lease, management, and protection of lands for public hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation. History. — ss. 1, 2, ch. 25463, 1949; s. 1, ch. 59-390; s. 1, ch. 72-337; s. 103, ch. 73-333; s. 2, ch. 76-67; s. 1, ch. 79-372; s. 2, ch. 80-180; s. 2, ch. 82-188; s. 8, ch. 85-235; s. 10, ch. 85-324; s. 2, ch. 86-158; s. 8, ch. 91-78; s. 7, ch. 96-265; s. 162, ch. 99-13; s. 24, ch. 2002-46; s. 4, ch. 2005-45; s. 19, ch. 2006-304; s. 23, ch. 2007-223; s. 27, ch. 2008-247; s. 54, ch. 2009-86. Note. — Former s. 372.573. 379.2222 Acquisition of state game lands. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, with the approval of the Governor, may acquire, in the name of the state, lands and waters suitable for the protection and propagation of game, fish, nongame birds, or fur-bearing animals, or for hunting purposes, game farms, by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise to be known as state game lands. The said commission may erect such buildings and fences as may be deemed necessary to properly maintain and protect such lands, or for propagation of game, nongame birds, freshwater fish, or fur-bearing animals. The title of land acquired by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise, shall be approved by the Department of Legal Affairs. The deed to such lands shall be deposited as are deeds to other state lands. No property acquired under this section shall be exempt from state, county, or district taxation. History. — ss. 6, 67, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(6), 1977 (67); s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 25, ch. 29615, 1955; ss. 11, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 127, ch. 99-245; s. 28, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.12. 379.2223 Control and management of state game lands. (1) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized to make, adopt, promulgate, amend, repeal, and enforce all reasonable rules and regulations necessary for the protection, control, operation, management, or development of lands or waters owned by, leased by, or otherwise assigned to, the commission for fish or wildlife management purposes, including, but not limited to, the right of ingress and egress. Before any such rule or regulation is adopted, other than one relating to wild animal life, marine life, or freshwater aquatic life, the commission shall obtain the consent and agreement, in writing, of the owner, in the case of privately owned lands or waters, or the owner or primary custodian, in the case of public lands or waters. (2) A person who violates a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this section is subject to penalties as provided in s. 379.401. History. — s. 1, ch. 70-40; s. 306, ch. 71-136; s. 1, ch. 90-39; s. 128, ch. 99-245; s. 20, ch. 2000-197; s. 29, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2016-107. Note. — Former s. 372.121. 379.2224 Preserves, refuges, etc., not tax-exempt. No property acquired by purchase, lease, gift, contract to purchase or lease, or otherwise, under the provisions of this chapter, as state game lands, or any private lands used as game refuges, shooting grounds, privileges, hatcheries or breeding grounds for fish, game, birds or fur-bearing animals, except state-owned lands being used for the protection of game, fish or fur-bearing animals under the provisions of this chapter, shall be exempt from state, county or district taxation. Any contract, lease, gift or purchase of land for such purposes which attempts to exempt or partially exempt such property from taxation shall be null and void and of no effect. History. — s. 67, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(67); s. 30, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.19. 379.2225 Everglades recreational sites; definitions. (1) PURPOSE. — It is the intent of the Legislature to provide for the development and management of recreational sites in the water conservation areas of the Florida Everglades when such development: (a) Can be accomplished without endangering the water quality and quantity of supply and where environmental impact will be minimal. (b) Is located on the exterior fringes of the Everglades to discourage extensive uncontrolled use of the interior regions. (c) Is located where convenient access is possible for the millions of Floridians living in urban areas. (d) Offers recreational potential for nature trails, bird study, picnic areas, boating, fishing, hunting, and target shooting. (e) Is located where proper management and law enforcement can be provided. (2) DEFINITIONS. — As used in this section: (a) “Commission” means the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (b) “Indian reservations” means lands as designated by chapter 285. (c) “Development of recreational sites” means any improvements to existing facilities or sites and also such new selection and improvements as are needed for the various recreational activities as herein provided. (3) RECREATIONAL SITES. — The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is directed to develop, manage, and enforce laws on certain recreational sites in the water conservation areas of the Everglades from funds to be appropriated by the Legislature. (4) No recreational site will be developed on any Indian reservations as created by chapter 285 without first obtaining written approval for such development from the Indians of the particular reservation lands affected. History. — ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ch. 73-249; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 4, ch. 78-323; s. 25, ch. 83-85; s. 27, ch. 83-218; s. 15, ch. 95-146; s. 22, ch. 99-5; s. 118, ch. 99-245; s. 31, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 372.025. 379.223 Citizen support organizations; use of state property; audit. (1) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may authorize the establishment of citizen support organizations to provide assistance, funding, and promotional support for the programs of the commission. For purposes of this section, the term “citizen support organization” means an organization which: (a) Is a corporation not for profit incorporated pursuant to the provisions of chapter 617 and approved by the Department of State. (b) Is organized and operated to conduct programs and activities; raise funds; request and receive grants, gifts, and bequests of money; acquire, receive, hold, invest, and administer in its own name securities, funds, or real or personal property; and make expenditures for the benefit of the commission or an individual program unit of the commission; except that such organization may not receive funds from the commission or the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute by grant or gift unless specifically authorized by the Legislature. If the citizen support organization by contract provides fiscal and administrative services to the commission for a grant or program that benefits the commission, the organization may be reimbursed or compensated for such services by the commission if the services are a direct benefit to the commission. (c) The commission has determined acts in a manner that is consistent with the goals of the commission and the best interests of the state. (d) Is approved in writing by the commission to operate for the benefit of the commission. Such approval must be stated in a letter of agreement from the executive director of the commission. (2)(a) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may permit a citizen support organization to use commission property, facilities, and personnel free of charge. A citizen support organization may use commission property, facilities, and personnel if such use is consistent with the approved purpose of that citizen support organization and if such use does not unreasonably interfere with the general public’s use of commission property, facilities, and personnel for established purposes. (b) The commission may prescribe conditions upon the use by a citizen support organization of commission property, facilities, or personnel. (c) The commission may not permit the use of any property, facilities, or personnel of the state by a citizen support organization that does not provide equal membership and employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, or age. (3) Each citizen support organization shall provide for an annual financial audit in accordance with s. 215.981. The identity of a donor or prospective donor to a citizen support organization who desires to remain anonymous and all information identifying such donor or prospective donor are confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution. Such anonymity shall be maintained in the auditor’s report. History. — s. 1, ch. 88-84; s. 111, ch. 90-360; s. 1, ch. 95-127; s. 172, ch. 96-406; s. 114, ch. 99-245; s. 107, ch. 2001-266; s. 7, ch. 2004-264; s. 32, ch. 2008-247; s. 17, ch. 2014-96; s. 4, ch. 2015-161; s. 10, ch. 2019-93. Note. — Former s. 372.0215. 379.2231 Additional assessment; Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc. (1) As used in this section, the term “convicted” or “conviction” means any judicial disposition other than acquittal or dismissal. (2) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a court may order a person who is convicted of a violation of this chapter or of a rule or order of the commission to pay an assessment directly to Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc. (3) Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc., may pay a reward, from the funds assessed pursuant to subsection (2), to a person who provides information leading to the arrest of an individual or individuals for a violation of this chapter or of a rule or order of the commission. History. — s. 11, ch. 2019-93. 379.224 Memorandum of agreement relating to Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. A memorandum of agreement will be developed between the Department of Environmental Protection and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission which will detail the responsibilities of the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute to the department, to include, at a minimum, the following services: (1) Environmental monitoring and assessment. (2) Restoration research and development of restoration technology. (3) Technical support and response for oil spills, ship groundings, major marine species die-offs, hazardous spills, and natural disasters. History. — s. 14, ch. 99-245; s. 4, ch. 2004-264; s. 33, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 370.06091. 379.2251 Agreements with Federal Government for the preservation of saltwater fisheries; authority of commission. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized and empowered to enter into cooperative agreements with the Federal Government or agencies thereof for the purpose of preserving saltwater fisheries within and without state waters and for the purpose of protecting against overfishing, waste, depletion, or any abuse whatsoever. Such authority includes the authority to enter into cooperative agreements whereby officers of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are empowered to enforce federal statutes and rules pertaining to fisheries management. When differences between state and federal laws occur, state laws shall take precedence. History. — s. 1, ch. 83-225; s. 223, ch. 94-356; s. 244, ch. 99-245; s. 34, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 370.103. 379.2252 Compacts and agreements; generally. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may enter into agreements of reciprocity with the fish commissioners or other departments or other proper officials of other states, whereby the citizens of the state may be permitted to take or catch shrimp or prawn from the waters under the jurisdiction of such other states, upon similar agreements to allow such nonresidents or aliens to fish for or catch seafood products within the jurisdiction of the state regardless of residence. History. — s. 2, ch. 28145, 1953; ss. 25, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 237, ch. 94-356; s. 252, ch. 99-245; s. 35, ch. 2008-247. Note. — Former s. 370.18. 379.2253 Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Compact; implementing legislation. (1) FORM. — The Governor of this state is hereby authorized and directed to execute a compact on behalf of the State of Florida with any one or more of the States of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, and with such other states as may enter into the compact, legally joining therein in the form substantially as follows: ATLANTIC STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMPACT The contracting states solemnly agree: ARTICLE I The purpose of this compact is to promote the better utilization of the fisheries, marine, shell, and anadromous, of the Atlantic seaboard by the development of a joint program for the promotion and protection of such fisheries, and by the prevention of the physical waste of the fisheries from any cause. It is not the purpose of this compact to authorize the states joining herein to limit the production of fish or fish products for the purpose of establishing or fixing the price thereof, or creating and perpetuating a monopoly. ARTICLE II This agreement shall become operative immediately as to those states executing it whenever any two or more of the States of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida have executed it in the form that is in accordance with the laws of the executing state and the Congress has given its consent. Any state contiguous with any of the aforementioned states and riparian upon waters frequented by anadromous fish, flowing into waters under the jurisdiction of any of the aforementioned states, may become a party hereto as hereinafter provided. ARTICLE III Each state joining herein shall appoint three representatives to a commission hereby constituted and designated as the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. One shall be the executive officer of the administrative agency of such state charged with the conservation of the fisheries resources to which this compact pertains or, if there be more than one officer or agency, the official of that state named by the governor thereof. The second shall be a member of the legislature of such state designated by such legislature or, in the absence of such designation, such legislator shall be designated by the governor thereof, provided that if it is constitutionally impossible to appoint a legislator as a commissioner from such state, the second member shall be appointed in such manner as is established by law. The third shall be a citizen who shall have a knowledge of and interest in the marine fisheries problem to be appointed by the governor. This commission shall be a body corporate with the powers and duties set forth herein. ARTICLE IV The duty of the said commission shall be to make inquiry and ascertain from time to time such methods, practices, circumstances and conditions as may be disclosed for bringing about the conservation and the prevention of the depletion and physical waste of the fisheries, marine, shell and anadromous, of the Atlantic seaboard. The commission shall have power to recommend the coordination of the exercise of the police powers of the several states within their respective jurisdictions to promote the preservation of those fisheries and their protection against overfishing, waste, depletion or any abuse whatsoever and to assure a continuing yield from the fisheries resources of the aforementioned states. To that end the commission shall draft and, after consultation with the advisory committee hereinafter authorized, recommend to the governors and legislatures of the various signatory states legislation dealing with the conservation of the marine, shell and anadromous fisheries of the Atlantic seaboard. The commission shall, more than one month prior to any regular meeting of the legislature in any signatory state, present to the governor of the state its recommendations relating to enactments to be made by the legislature of that state in furthering the intents and purposes of this compact. The commission shall consult with and advise the pertinent administrative agencies in the states party hereto with regard to problems connected with the fisheries and recommend the adoption of such regulations as it deems advisable. The commission shall have power to recommend to the states party hereto the stocking of the waters of such states with fish and fish eggs or joint stocking by some or all of the states party hereto and when two or more of the states shall jointly stock waters the commission shall act as the coordinating agency for such stocking. ARTICLE V The commission shall elect from its number a chair and a vice chair and shall appoint and at its pleasure remove or discha