Conclusion

Maintaining a healthy, vital ocean is of utmost importance for the state of Florida. Its ocean waters encompass a wealth of resources that are essential to the state's economic and environmental well-being. Indeed, its very existence is a primary part of Florida's identity.

Florida is responsible for the management of a broad range of ocean resource uses and activities, and has extensive policies, laws, and rules aimed at the management of individual ocean resources. The state, however, has no comprehensive ocean resources management strategy that would allow for the management of ocean resources within a sensible framework that balances protection with reasonable and responsible use.

The state can no longer expect to effectively manage different ocean uses on a case-by-case basis. Increasing use conflicts coupled with deteriorating environmental conditions require a coordinated, comprehensive management strategy.

Developing a comprehensive ocean resources management scheme is a challenging task. The rewards, however, are equally great. Careful management of Florida's abundant ocean resources presents not only countless possibilities for this generation's benefit and enjoyment, but more importantly, ensures that Florida's ocean bounty will exist to nourish and sustain generations to come.