Survey 1Manatee Abundance Survey In fall/winter 2026, FWC will conduct one manatee abundance…

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has awarded a contract for aerial survey services related to manatee population monitoring and research activities. The primary service involves conducting a manatee abundance survey on Florida's west coast during fall/winter 2026, covering coastal areas from Franklin County to Monroe County. The survey requires approximately 100 flight hours over a minimum of four days, utilizing multiple aircraft (2-5 per day) to survey designated rectangular plots at 750 feet altitude and 80-90 knots airspeed. Survey pilots must possess previous manatee aerial survey experience and be capable of executing precise navigational maneuvers, including tight orbits and obstacle avoidance around power plants and structures. Operations will be staged from Crystal Aero Group located in Crystal River, Florida.

The contract also encompasses miscellaneous aerial survey services to be performed on an as-needed basis through June 30, 2027, including observer training flights, emergency response flights during unforeseen events such as red tide or cold events, animal tracking operations to support capture or rescue efforts, and feasibility study flights. Services are priced at $480.00 per hobbs hour for Cessna 172 or 182 aircraft, including fuel and instructor time, with a contract not-to-exceed value of $3,900.00. The contract period extends from award date (August 31, 2026) through June 30, 2027, with flight duration and scheduling subject to weather conditions.