ABOUT RFRI
MISSION
The Recreational Fisheries Research Institute’s (RFRI) mission is to conduct marine fisheries research and to promote coastal and fisheries restoration through education and public involvement. The RFRI collectes fisheries data in conjunction with local, state, and federal government; educational institutions; other non profits; and volunteers.
PROGRAMS
On June 18th, 2004 the RFRI placed of 2,200 tons of limestone in Bay Ronquille to create an inshore Artificial Reef. The reef was constructed to reduce coastal erosion and restore essential fish habitat. The coordinates for the newly constructed reef are 29° 19.983' N and 89° 50.6' W. Angler recruitment for the Cooperative Marine Sport Fish Tagging Program started during April of 2005. This program is designed to utilize a diverse partnership and to employ and educate anglers, through their participation, about the importance and need for fisheries management, conservation, and coastal restoration.
A study to profile anglers that participate in fishing rodeos and investigate the Social and Economic impacts of these fishing rodeos on local, regional, and state economies of Louisiana was initialed during 2004 at the Faux Pas and RFRI rodeos. RFRI aims to revitalize urban fishing. During January of 2006 the RFRI assisted in assessing the fisheries and habitat potential of New Orleans’ Bayou St. John by releasing and observing redfish and restoring habitat.
SUPPORT
Managing the future of fishing in Louisiana is a monumental task, and in order for the RFRI to tackle fisheries, habitat, and coastal restoration projects, funding is required. To accomplish these goals the RFRI has been set up as a nonprofit organization with all donations tax deductible under IRS ruling 501(C)3 for public charities. The RFRI is separate from the state and federal government.
How can you help? Participate in the RFRI’s Annual Fund-Raising Events. By taking part in these events, you can become a true steward of our great natural resources and help guarantee the future of fishing for our children and grandchildren. Without public support and awareness many projects can become fruitless efforts. We aim to demonstrate that concerned "citizen scientist" can make a difference.
PROJECTS
The “Wish to Fish Louisiana” program was organized to get kids off the streets, out of the house, and into the great outdoors. Some of Louisiana’s finest fishing guides volunteer their time to take children out on the water for an enjoyable day of fishing. The children are instructed on angling techniques and have the opportunity to observe and learn the importance of Louisiana’s most precious wetlands. After a morning fishing trip the children gather at the dock for educational presentations given by personnel in various fields from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and other academic institutions. It is easy for us to SAY “take your child fishing,” however, due to lack of equipment and other essentials needed for a day on the water, not everyone has the ability to just pack up and take their kids fishing. Wish to Fish can give them that chance with emphasis on the importance of conservation and exploration. I want to help give them this opportunity.
The Louisiana Cooperative Marine Sport Fish Tagging Program is a cooperative effort between federal and state fisheries agencies, local universities, conservations groups and volunteer anglers’ partner to conserve sport fish. Volunteer anglers provide information that is difficult, often impossible, and expensive to obtain by other means. This partnership aims to establish to a volunteer based fish tagging program to improve our understanding of marine fish movements and patterns of habitat use. The program will also provide information used to determine fish habitat use before, during and after coastal restoration efforts an document how fish are affected by hurricanes, freezes and droughts. Promoting wise use of Louisiana aquatic resources and providing insight into the need for protection of critical fish habitats are other goals of the program.
