Best Management Practices
Overview
Effective July 1, 1998, the Florida Legislature adopted a program of Best Management Practices (BMPs) [PDF] as a means of assuring that aquafarms do not negatively impact the environment. Certified aquaculturists who comply with BMPs will be presumed to be in compliance with state groundwater and surface water standards as well as regulations for the culture of non-native species. The BMPs have been developed in concert with each segment of the industry and are designed to eliminate cumbersome, duplicative and confusing environmental permitting and licensing, thereby allowing the aquafarmer to concentrate his/her finances and time on producing a marketable product. The Division will perform annual site visits at each certified facility to assist the aquafarmer in complying with the Best Management Practices.
