Extension

"The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is a federal-state-county partnership dedicated to developing knowledge in agriculture, human and natural resources, and the life sciences, and enhancing and sustaining the quality of human life by making that information accessible. While extending into every community of the state, UF/IFAS has developed an international reputation for its accomplishments in teaching, research and extension.  Because of this mission and the diversity of Florida ’s climate and agricultural commodities, IFAS has facilities located throughout Florida." (UF/IFAS Web Site, 2006)  Extension programs translate science-based management techniques, including those developed through applied research, into practical application.

Extension programs provided through the UF/IFAS Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory primarily target the needs of Florida’s ornamental fish and aquatic plant aquaculture industry.  The TAL faculty and staff, however, also provide support to other aquaculture commodity groups (e.g., food and game fish) and relevant organizations such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).  Agency partners that assist in the TAL’s mission include the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)/Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) - Wildlife Services, which provides assistance with nuisance wildlife; USDA/APHIS - Veterinary Services, which provides assistance with federal regulatory issues and provides aquatic animal health certificate endorsements; the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Division of Aquaculture, and FDACS - Division of Animal Industry.  

Extension programs areas include general production, nutritional management, water quality, pond and recirculating system management, pest management (including pesticide applicator training and testing), reproduction, fish health and disease management, and non-native species.

Extension information and support is provided through on-site, facility visits; client visits to the TAL; fish disease diagnostics; workshops, seminars, short courses, and training programs; industry meetings; newsletter articles; and extension publications.

Extension faculty members also provide support through participation in relevant working groups and committees of various county, state, and federal agencies.

Extension Contacts: