More Northwest Florida Waters Cleared for Seafood Harvesting

An even greater expanse of federal water off Northwest Florida is now open for commercial and recreational fishing.

In a press statement Tuesday, Gov. Charlie Crist declared bad times for the Panhandle economy on the mend and good times ready to roll for recreational and commercial fishermen. "We invite traveling Floridians, as well as visitors from around the nation and the world, to come and fish, explore our beautiful beaches and enjoy Floridas delicious seafood, the governor said.

Added Rodney Barreto, chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The reopening of these federal waters comes as great news to Florida anglers and coastal communities impacted by the Deepwater oil spill. This action by our federal partners is one more step forward in helping our fishing communities recover from this unprecedented event."