Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve

Between 60% and 85% of the local population make their living directly from the fishing industry,[citation needed] most of which is done in reserve waters.

Research projects that target commercial fisheries management and the food chain are a high priority in the Apalachicola Reserve.

In addition to its water quality monitoring program, the reserve has engaged in extensive benthic habitat mapping in Apalachicola Bay and has a highly sophisticated geographic information systems (GIS), which is used to educate coastal managers and visiting researchers about the area and its ecology.

Other educational offerings include ongoing guest lectures for the community and coastal management workshops for environmental professionals.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the NOAA.