In 1998, an amendment to the Florida Constitution approved the establishment of the FWC with a headquarters in Tallahassee, the state capital, on July 1, 1999.

To do this, the seven Governor of Florida-appointed commissioners meet five times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals, and conduct other business.

"[5] The Commissioners as of 2018[update]: In 2012, the FWC adopted a plan on how the Florida black bear should be managed over the next 10 years.

[6] Wildlife management areas (WMAs) conserve nearly 6 million acres of Florida's natural habitat.

The WMAs exist to protect fish and wildlife resources, and provide recreational opportunities such as hunting and wildlife-viewing.