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The idea of fish hatcheries is nothing new to trout anglers, but Florida wildlife officials are hoping that it can help their redfish, snook, and tarpon populations. Four independent aquaculture labs helped develop the plan with state officials last week.

Florida wildlife officials have embarked on an ambitious plan that would create a statewide network of about 12 new and existing fish hatcheries focused on raising popular sport species such as redfish, snook and tarpon, then releasing them into the wild.

Scientists and sport fishing groups are championing the estimated $50 million plan as a way to replenish depleted and over-fished stocks, counter habitat declines and protect the state's $8 billion recreational fishing industry.

A major aspect of the plan, researchers said, would be seagrass and mangrove restoration.

Scientists involved in the plan vow to meet the strictest environmental standards. The hatcheries would not release nutrients or antibiotics into the lagoon, Shenker said.

http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080128/NEWS01/801280326