Heritage - Sustainable Economies

Econ IconThe human history of the Nature Coast is rooted in boom and bust resource extraction that assumed resources were too vast to be depleted. Cedar Key's history is rich in tales of wealth and expansion that led to a bust in the local economy as the trees ran out or the laws changed to protect resources. In some ways Cedar Key could be used as an example of a community rooted in boom and bust extractive cycles. The 1994 Net Ban seemed to be yet another blow to the community's economic future, but never underestimate the creativity and passion of folks who make their living on the water.

Saving Nature for Nature Based Jobs

Cedar Key is now the “Clam Capitol” of the United States. Fisherman traded their nets for inshore aquaculture gear and transitioned to the clamming industry. Wild clams, grown in and around Cedar Key, are now harvested and distributed across the United States. This local, sustainable industry not only is essential to the rebirth of Cedar Key, but it is based in keeping water quality in the region high leading to local and regional reforms of everything from agricultural runoff to waste water treatment on the island. Cedar Key's expansion as a destination for artists, seafood lovers, and nature lovers coupled with a strong local economy based in sustainable resource management makes it a poster child for the future of the Nature Coast.

The arguments for continued large-scale resource extraction, whether mining or logging, and unbridled development are based on short term rewards. Once the rock or trees are gone, and the houses have been built, what comes next? The alternative economic model based in sustainable use, management, and cultivation of resources ensures a steady growing economy that benefits all and ensures the next generation the opportunities that generations today have.

Sustainable resource management, science driven conservation, and creative thinking all are key elements to the Nature Coast's future and a long term economy that will outlast the boom and bust cycles. Eco-tourism (hunting, fishing, paddling, birding, hiking, photography, astronomy, etc.) is a powerful economic engine and depends completely on saving and managing the natural resources of the region. Saving nature means nature based jobs. Nature based jobs keep local money local, and means local people have a say in the economy and community they want to see.

Our goal is to continue to work with conservation groups, tourist development councils, chambers of commerce, government agencies, philanthropic organizations, and travel service organizations to market the Nature Coast as Florida's last wild frontier. This can and will work if we keep the Nature in the Nature Coast.

Resources

  • Resource One
  • Resource Two [PDF]
  • Resource Three (fourth paragraph down)
Cedar Key Clammers Cedar Key’s renaissance has a clam shell foundation. The evolution and growth of its sustainable clamming industry have made it a poster child for sustainable resource management.