NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

17 December 1999

CONTACT: Jerry Krummrich (904) 758-0525

LOW BUSH BAY FMA TO CLOSE

Low Bush Bay, the popular fish management area located in Hamilton County, will close December 31, 1999.

"Bienville Plantation, owners of the property, have formally notified the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that they will no longer be able to furnish the facility for public fishing. The company's business has increased to the point of needing additional lakes to supply quality fishing to their customers," said Jerry Krummrich, regional fisheries administrator.

Low Bush Bay was opened in 1997 with a cooperative agreement between Phosphate Corporation of Saskatchewan, Bienville Plantation and the former Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. The 400-acre lake was divided into public fish areas that were open daily and a special opportunity fishing area that was open by special reservation and increased fees.

"While we hate to loose Low Bush Bay FMA to public fishing, we do understand the nature of private business and the need to increase income," said Krummrich. "Bienville has been generous in allowing the state to manage the area for public recreation".

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will continue to look for other opportunities to provide public fishing in the phosphate pit region.