went into effect, a lot of the big busts dropped off.” The long-term benefits of the ban far outweigh these isolated incidents, however. In today’s climate of divisive politics and rhetoric, it’s reassuring to see what a grassroots, volunteer army of conservationists was able to accom- plish 16 years ago. The battles were hard-fought back then — there’s no denying it. But the war was won in the end and Florida’s marine environment was the biggest winner of all.


Dave Lear was the communications


director for Florida Conservation Asso- ciation during the net ban campaign. In that role, he established the statewide media network to publicize the abuse of nets through press releases, articles and other documentation. He personally collected thousands of petitions to get the amend- ment on the ballot and helped coordinate volunteers. A few years later, he ran the successful campaign unifying fish and wildlife management in Florida. Today Capt. Lear is an award-winning outdoor writer and light tackle/fly guide based in Tallahassee.


TIDE


www.joincca.org


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