Tag Archives: FWC

Large-scale alligator farming affects Florida tanneries and small businesses

Alligator farming has become a critical source of skins for the leather industry. The skins are more pristine and can be raised in the most optimal conditions and many more of them can be supplied. Alligator farming has also played a role in conservation efforts for the species. But a consequence of the advent of farming has been an oversupply of skins that has made their value plummet. This oversupply has mainly come from large-scale industrial farms that can slaughter thousands of animals every week and have chomped smaller operations out of business.

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Florida wildlife agency expected to shoot down commercialized turtle breeding proposal

The U.S. Association of Reptile Keepers of Florida wants the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to approve captive breeding of Diamondback terrapins. The move would combat declining populations of the species of turtle due to high demand as both low-maintenance pets and poachable commodities. The program will be discussed at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting Wednesday, but FWC’s staff report, slated to be presented during discussion, recommends maintaining current rules.

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