JoEllen Wilson will discuss the Juvenile Tarpon Habitat Initiative, highlighting the importance of mangrove wetlands for tarpon nurseries, current restoration efforts in Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande, and BTT’s mission to conserve fisheries through education and advocacy.

JoEllen, a Punta Gorda native with extensive experience in fisheries management and habitat restoration, will share updates on ongoing restoration efforts in Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande. Attendees will gain insights into how degraded habitats are being restored, the mapping of juvenile tarpon habitats, and the importance of integrating these habitats into fisheries management plans.

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) is dedicated to conserving bonefish, tarpon, permit, and their habitats across the southeastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea. Their mission is driven by science-based conservation, education, and advocacy. Through initiatives like the Juvenile Tarpon Habitat Initiative and restoration projects such as the Rookery Bay Restoration Project. BTT is working to ensure that vital habitats for species like juvenile tarpon are preserved and restored.

The Juvenile Tarpon Habitat Initiative focuses on protecting and restoring mangrove backwater wetlands, which are essential nurseries for juvenile tarpon. Sadly, Florida has already lost around 50% of its mangroves, which continues to impact tarpon populations. BTT’s efforts aim to map and restore these habitats, ensuring juvenile tarpon can survive and thrive.

To learn more about Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and their work, visit BTT.org/juvenile-tarpon.

Speaker Information:
JoEllen K. Wilson, M.S., is BTT’s Juvenile Tarpon Habitat Program Manager. A native of Punta Gorda and a passionate advocate for the environment, JoEllen has been with BTT since 2009. Her work involves overseeing juvenile tarpon habitat research from South Carolina to the Florida Keys, mapping habitats, leading restoration projects, and educating the public about habitat protection. JoEllen holds degrees from the University of North Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, and the University of Florida.

During this November Coffee & Conservation, JoEllen will focus on habitat research and restoration efforts in Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande, highlighting how habitat degradation is being addressed through innovative restoration techniques.