Nonnative animal management.

(1) As used in this section, the term “priority invasive species” means the following:

(a) Lizards of the genus Tupinambis, also known as tegu lizards;

(b) Species identified in s. 379.372(2)(a);

(c) Pterois volitans, also known as red lionfish; and

(d) Pterois miles, also known as the common lionfish or devil firefish.

(2) The Legislature finds that priority invasive species continue to expand their range and to decimate the fauna and flora of the Everglades and other natural areas and ecosystems in the southern and central parts of the state at an accelerating rate. Therefore, the commission shall establish a pilot program to mitigate the impact of priority invasive species on the public lands or waters of this state.

(a) The goal of the pilot program is to examine the benefits of using strategically deployed, trained private contractors to slow the advance of priority invasive species, contain their populations, and eradicate them from this state.

(b) In implementing the pilot program, the commission may enter into contracts in accordance with chapter 287 with entities or individuals to capture or destroy animals belonging to priority invasive species found on public lands or in the waters of this state. Any private contracted work to be performed on public land or in the waters of the state not owned or managed by the commission must have the consent of the owner.

(c) The commission shall ensure that all captures and disposals of animals that belong to these priority invasive species are documented and photographed and that the geographic location of the take is recorded for research purposes. The commission shall direct the disposal of all animals captured and not destroyed in removal efforts.